This picture book about the real historical figure of Manjiro was interesting. I knew that Japan had a closed policy for a while, but I didn't really know how long it was or that citizens could be put to death for leaving the country. Manjiro had a great experience learning about other cultures and he had a great attitude toward life. I felt terrible that he had to experience racism for the first time in America. The art was watercolor pictures that showed sea life and Manjiro's experiences. I don't really know why the subtitle was there. He risked his life going home, but not for the two countries.