From the Land of the Rising Sun: A Journey to Acceptance, Identity, & Belonging

Junko is an ordinary eight-year-old girl who lives in Osaka, flies her kite around the rice fields with her friends, and dreams of becoming a musician. Her only fear is of Mr. Thunder, the celestial being who steals children's belly buttons during thunderstorms. Following a family move to America in third grade, Junko's profound desire to belong in her new culture leads to newfound faith in Christ. Yet, she can't reconcile her understanding of a benevolent God with the angry Mr. Thunder of Japanese lore. While navigating life as an overachieving immigrant, learning a new language, and pursuing her passion for music, Junko encounters various trials and triumphs that ultimately lead to a clearer understanding of a good and gracious God.