Introducing the Gaikokujin Trilogy
外黒人 is the personal account of a confused boy learning the lessons of life—the hard way. Based on true events, the reader is placed into the shoes of one of the many millions of disenfranchised in America. From childhood to manhood, this is a spiritual rags-to-riches adventure!
The Trilogy: Gaikokujin—The Story
A sneak-peek at GAIKOKUJIN - The Story
Sheila Carroll interviews author / speaker Takuan Amaru about his novel. Race relations, multiculturalism, juvenile delinquency, and the military are some of the topics which are discussed.
Reader Reviews from Goodreads
5/5
Gaikokujin - The Story is told by the Takuan Amaru's point of view. His fictional world allows readers to see a side of the world most of us choose to ignore. Society's norms take control of us like the Devil having complete control over what we say or do. Readers will follow a survivor's journey through these troubling times. A refreshing and symbolic novel that readers will enjoy reading. I look forward to reading more by this talented writer and highly recommend his novel to readers worldwide. Gaikokujin - The Story is the story readers won't want to miss. Absolutely inspiring...and suspenseful.
Danielle Urban
AAMBC Reviewer
5/5
This was my first read by author Takuan Amaru, and I will admit I was pleasantly surprised. The cover art grabbed me in first; it almost made me want to frame it. Once I sat down with my favorite cup of coffee, and opened the book, I was hooked. The book is well written, and gives a fresh perspective on a subject that is sensitive to most, and ignored by some – race. As the story is being told by the author, you get the sense that you are almost there with him, seeing everything unfold with your own eyes. It was enjoyable from start to finish, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an eye-opening book. I am indeed a fan, and look forward to reading more from this author.
Kiera
Reviewer
5/5
This well written fictional account explores race relationships and the drug culture in America as seen through the eyes of Takuan Amaru, the son of an African-American father and a Japanese mother. The author explores the assumptions and stereotypes reinforced by society, which can have a detrimental influence on one's perception of self and the world. As the story evolves, we witness the trials and tribulations Takuan faces during his adolescent years. Thinking he has all the answers, he begins to engage in illegal drug dealing but his continuous attempts to get over may soon catch up with him. The narrative reflects not only some of American's ills but the world at large when it comes to the issues that affect people of color on a day by day basis.
Vivienne
Reviewer
5/5
Gaikokujin - The Story by Takuan Amaru is one powerfully yet captivating story. A novel like this is a must read. Takuan Amaru gives his readers a story rich in culture, history, and philosophy. His characters give readers a show not tell, version of life and how society operates. Society doesn't always operate in a way to benefit all people. Those of color and gender were mistreated in ways none of us can expect. That and the issues of poverty didn't help these groups much either.
Danielle Urban
AAMBC Reviewer
Reader Reviews from goodreads
5/5
Gaikokujin - The Story is told by the Takuan Amaru's point of view. His fictional world allows readers to see a side of the world most of us choose to ignore. Society's norms take control of us like the Devil having complete control over what we say or do. Readers will follow a survivor's journey through these troubling times. A refreshing and symbolic novel that readers will enjoy reading. I look forward to reading more by this talented writer and highly recommend his novel to readers worldwide. Gaikokujin - The Story is the story readers won't want to miss. Absolutely inspiring...and suspenseful.
Danielle Urban
AAMBC Reviewer
5/5
This well written fictional account explores race relationships and the drug culture in America as seen through the eyes of Takuan Amaru, the son of an African-American father and a Japanese mother. The author explores the assumptions and stereotypes reinforced by society, which can have a detrimental influence on one's perception of self and the world. As the story evolves, we witness the trials and tribulations Takuan faces during his adolescent years. Thinking he has all the answers, he begins to engage in illegal drug dealing but his continuous attempts to get over may soon catch up with him. The narrative reflects not only some of American's ills but the world at large when it comes to the issues that affect people of color on a day by day basis.
Vivienne
Reviewer
5/5
This was my first read by author Takuan Amaru, and I will admit I was pleasantly surprised. The cover art grabbed me in first; it almost made me want to frame it. Once I sat down with my favorite cup of coffee, and opened the book, I was hooked. The book is well written, and gives a fresh perspective on a subject that is sensitive to most, and ignored by some – race. As the story is being told by the author, you get the sense that you are almost there with him, seeing everything unfold with your own eyes. It was enjoyable from start to finish, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an eye-opening book. I am indeed a fan, and look forward to reading more from this author.
Kiera
Reviewer
外黒人
“I really enjoyed this novel! A funny, contemplative, and at times serious look at the author’s early life stories. Each story keep me turning the pages to see what happens next. I was so engaged in the stories, I was practically able to finish the book during a trans-pacific flight to the US. I look forward to book 2!”