On Their Frontlines

After Japan lost the war, the country was thrown into devastation. No one felt this devastation as much as Japanese women, who, left with few paths to choose from, took low-wage jobs, fell into sex work, and wed American GIs.

Best friends (and possibly lovers) before the war, Haru and Yoriko are separated in the evacuation of their town during the air raids. As they search for each other afterward, Haru gets by as a waitress, while Yoriko sells her body at a brothel. Their fortunes change when they each meet respectful American soldiers who take their hands. Arthur, a Japanese American, grapples with the inner conflict of his dual identity, while Scott is at once fascinated by Japanese culture and wracked with guilt over the destruction American forces have wrought.

Amidst the postwar desolation, love and understanding find a way in this powerful work of manga that explores sexuality, identity, and unlikely cross-cultural connection.