"Paper Wishes" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In the book "Paper Wishes" by Spencer Hoshino, the main character is Manami, a young Japanese-American girl who is forced to leave her home and her best friend, Ichiro, when her family is sent to an internment camp during World War II. Manami's role is that of the protagonist, as she navigates the challenges and hardships of being uprooted from her familiar life.

Character Descriptions

Manami

Manami is a brave and resilient young girl who loves her family and her best friend Ichiro. She has a strong sense of justice and is determined to hold onto her identity and culture, even in the face of adversity. Manami is depicted as having a curious and creative nature, often finding solace and expression through her artwork and origami.

Papa

Papa is Manami's father, a kind-hearted and hardworking man who deeply loves his family. He is portrayed as a pillar of strength for Manami and her brother, Hiroshi, during their time in the internment camp. Papa demonstrates patience and the ability to find joy in small moments, offering comfort and support to his family.

Mama

Mama is Manami's mother, a nurturing and resilient woman who is fiercely protective of her children. She is depicted as the emotional anchor for the family, providing comfort and stability during their difficult times. Mama is shown as a source of wisdom and guidance, teaching Manami important life lessons while maintaining a sense of hope.

Grandfather

Grandfather is Manami's wise and gentle grandfather. He serves as a source of wisdom and inspiration for Manami, teaching her about the importance of storytelling and the power of words. Despite the challenges he faces in the internment camp, Grandfather remains optimistic and encourages Manami to find strength in her heritage.

Hiroshi

Hiroshi is Manami's older brother, who shares a strong bond with her. He acts as a protector and mentor to Manami, guiding her through the difficulties of internment camp life. Hiroshi is depicted as a responsible and caring young man, who often puts his family's needs before his own.

Ichiro

Ichiro is Manami's best friend, who is left behind when her family is sent to the internment camp. Although he is not physically present for most of the story, Ichiro holds a significant role in Manami's life. He represents the connection to her old life and the longing for normalcy. Ichiro is depicted as a loyal and supportive friend, who remains hopeful for their reunion.

Character Traits

Manami

• Brave
• Resilient
• Curious
• Creative
• Determined
• Just

Papa

• Kind-hearted
• Hardworking
• Patient
• Joyful
• Supportive

Mama

• Nurturing
• Resilient
• Protective
• Wise
• Hopeful

Grandfather

• Wise
• Gentle
• Optimistic
• Inspirational

Hiroshi

• Responsible
• Caring
• Protective
• Mentor

Ichiro

• Loyal
• Supportive
• Hopeful

Character Background

Manami and her family are Japanese-Americans living in a small coastal town in California during World War II. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese-Americans are subjected to widespread discrimination and prejudice. Manami's family is forcibly relocated to an internment camp, where they face harsh living conditions and loss of freedom. Manami's background is shaped by her experiences in the internment camp, where she is confronted with the realities of racism and the struggle to maintain her identity.

Character Arcs

Manami

Manami's character arc in "Paper Wishes" revolves around her journey of self-discovery and resilience. Initially, she is devastated by the forced separation from her best friend Ichiro and struggles to adjust to life in the internment camp. However, as the story progresses, Manami finds solace in her artwork and the power of storytelling. Through her determination and creativity, she learns to find strength in her identity and to hold onto hope despite the challenges she faces.

Relationships

Manami and Papa

The relationship between Manami and her father, Papa, is one of deep love and support. Papa serves as a source of strength and guidance for Manami, helping her navigate the difficulties of internment camp life. Their bond is strengthened through their shared experiences and the moments of joy they find together.

Manami and Mama

Manami's relationship with her mother, Mama, is one of nurturance and resilience. Mama provides emotional stability and wisdom to Manami, teaching her important life lessons and instilling hope. Their bond is characterized by Mama's unwavering love and support for Manami and her siblings.

Manami and Grandfather

Manami's relationship with her grandfather is one of mentorship and inspiration. Grandfather imparts wisdom and storytelling traditions to Manami, teaching her about the power of words and the importance of preserving their culture. Their bond serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that can be found in their heritage.

Manami and Hiroshi

Manami's relationship with her older brother, Hiroshi, is one of protection and mentorship. Hiroshi acts as a guiding figure for Manami, offering advice and support during their time in the internment camp. Their bond is characterized by Hiroshi's caring nature and his dedication to keeping their family together.

Manami and Ichiro

Manami's relationship with her best friend, Ichiro, is one marked by separation and longing. Although physically apart for most of the story, their bond remains strong as they hold onto the hope of being reunited. Ichiro represents a connection to Manami's old life and serves as a source of motivation for her to persevere through the challenges of internment camp life.

In conclusion, "Paper Wishes" by Spencer Hoshino explores the character of Manami and her journey of resilience and self-discovery in the face of discrimination and adversity. The relationships she forms with her family and friends play a crucial role in shaping her character and providing support throughout her challenging experiences. Manami's determination, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her identity make her a relatable and inspiring protagonist.