The Samurai's Garden (1994) follows Stephen, a young Chinese man, as he recovers from tuberculosis in his family's summer home in Japan.  With World War II looming, Stephen learns more about the people who live in the village and the history that connects them.

While The Samurai's Garden focuses on Stephen, it is the story of Matsu, Sachi, and Kenzo that truly grabs your attention.  This book was beautifully written and difficult to put down.  There is so much loss and heartache in it, but as the reader, you also know what is to come with World War II.  I cannot recommend The Samurai's Garden enough!