Nina recalls an exchange with an African-American family outside the restaurant that she comes to realize was misinterpreted and, therefore, accepted by her patrons. What do these experiences communicate about American values during the early 1940s?

Book Clubs In Our Midst by Nancy Jensen Discussion
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Throughout history, societies have identified “insiders” and “outsiders.” As she experiences life under the label of an “enemy alien,” Nina recalls an exchange with an African-American family outside the restaurant that she comes to realize was misinterpreted and, therefore, accepted by her patrons. What do these experiences communicate about American values during the early 1940s?

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I thought this was a good addition to the book. It showed that Iris, while kind and accepting, was not perfect. She allowed her patrons to misinterpret her actions so that she looked like she believed as they did. It was nice to see that Iris also had growth in understanding the plight of others.

Certainly, America was not kind to multiple groups in the 1940’s and even now. Often it is individuals that can be quickly put into a group by appearance, language or a custom. We continue to grow and hope that just like Iris now knows, we sometimes need to go against the majority and help others.

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I also think that it added another dimension of acceptance within society to the storyline of the book. Nina, allowed her customers to be who they are and believe what wanted including misunderstanding Nina wo they felt they were included . Misunderstanding of cultural and racial differences has always been part of our history and society and unfortunately will continue to so with some exceptions.

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Kudos to Ms Jensen for including this episode in the book. Dee_Driscole’s response to this question is spot on!!