What was it like? What was it really like in Hawaii prior to December 7, 1941? In the context of this novel, certainly not dull, with tensions between the Japanese and American communities increasingly manifest. The plot centers mainly around Joanne, a navy widow; Ben, her navy officer son; Thad, her antagonistic son-in-law, also high in the naval echelon; and the shadowy, tradition-bound Japanese father, whose daughter is having a clandestine affair with Ben. The reader's interest in the story is immediately engaged with Joanne's grimey participation in a boar hunt, and the ensuing luau, from which Ben is lured, and--on the dishonored father's orders--emasculated. Seeking revenge for her son's tragedy, she and Thad set out in pursuit of the father, who retreats to a jungle refuge on an outlying island, leading his pursuers across a variety of fascinating landscapes. And then...(well, read it yourself). Playwrite Nash ("Rain-Maker") handles this character-driven plot deftly. The prose crackles with energy; no sodden, overblown, or cliche-ridden lines here. I first read this paperback edition over 20 years ago and was impressed by Nash's skillful use of imagery, giving one the sense of actually "being there". In this genre, East Wind, Rain compares favorably(albeit on a lesser scale) with James Jones'"From Here to Eternity", and, in my view, ouclasses Frank DeFord's "Love and Infamy". Although out of print for years, this forgotten jewel is obtainable through used book stores on-line. Do yourself a favor and get it!

here is a play that truly is a little miracle. the script is so honest and touching in a way that almost anyone can relate to. i just saw the production on broadway with jayne atkinson and woody harrelson and absolutely adored it. the whole cast has done wonders with these simple words that Nash has written. it was a delightful production and i urge everyone to read the script even if you cannot see a live production. you will love it!