'Melbourne, Australia 1954. But the Second World War still casts its shadow. Jack fought the Japanese in the Pacific and suffers war neurosis. In rebellion against the difficulties of her family life, Jack's teenage daughter Louise secretly befriends Japanese war-bride Hanaka. At the heart of the story is the Japanese garden Louise and Hanaka plan together, a garden which will be a symbol of their lasting friendship. This is a story of a stranger in a strange and often hostile land and of the long reach of the wounds of war. As well, it is a coming-of-age story filled with characters of great charm. Told with quintessential Australian humour this story will make the reader cry as well as laugh.' (Publication summary)
