Rio: What has the reaction of your readers been?
Yupechika: I’ve received a lot of comments. It’s interesting that the comments changed over time. At first, many of the comments showed surprise at various aspects of the Muslim culture. As the story went on, however, I received more comments on the two girls’ friendship.
Rio: In fact, when I read the stories, I could see the change in Satoko’s emotions.
Yupechika: Oh, I’m very glad to hear that. Satoko decided to study abroad because she felt uncomfortable about hiding her true feelings in order to go along with the crowd. In the story “True Friendship,” Satoko tells Nada the reason she decided to study in the U.S. Then Nada holds Satoko’s hands and says, “I’m different, and you’re different. We’re all different, but we’re still friends. That’s true friendship.”
Rio: Yeah, I agree.
Yupechika: Despite our individual differences, we can live together, and we can even be friends by knowing and respecting each other as individuals. I believe different kinds of people make our world a better and more interesting place.
Rio: Yes, diversity definitely makes our life richer. Thank you for your time today.