Japanese-American artist Leo Orii, in collaboration with The Manila Shimbun and Takion, Inc., is launching his maiden book: “Sampaguita and Gold Button” on Saturday, April 8, at 3 p.m. at the TIU Theater, Amorsolo Street near the corner of Dela Rosa St., Makati City.
In “Sampaguita and Gold Button”, Orii captures the story of first love and suffering in a Japanese-occupied Philippines during World War II.
A tapestry-maker and painter, the author uses his mastery of the visual art to color his story with fictional characters, bringing romance between a Japanese sailor and a lass from Cebu amid the flames of war.
This is one of very few books that offer a perceptive, human look at the Japanese side of the story of that Great War.
Mr. Orii will speak about his book, followed by book-signing.