Inspired by the true story of Kent Matsumoto's parents, the historical novel, Of White Ashes, tells the love story of two Japanese Americans, Ruby Ishimaru and Koji Matsuo who both have childhoods rooted in trauma and interruption because of WWII.
Co-written by Connie and Kent Matsumoto, the book tells the story through alternating chapters of Ruby and Koji's lives. For purposes of this episode, we focus on the Ruby chapters and the events which led her to being interned in Jerome Arkansas with her stepmother and sisters.
"Her father greeted the sheriff, who was his friend, and two strangers wearing suits and ties—all three of them white men—and invited them inside.
"The sheriff's tone was serious. "Sensi, I hate to do this." The sheriff looked at the two strangers. "These men are with the FBI. We have a warrant for your arrest on suspicion that you are an enemy alien of the United States, pending final action by the Commanding General, Hawaiian Department, United States Army."
"Her father's angry voice quivered. 'That's absurd! I've done nothing wrong. I'm as outraged by Japan's strike as you are, and I am not an enemy of the US.'"
A former corporate executive, Connie Matsumoto embraced creative writing to create her award-winning, debut historical novel, Of White Ashes (Loyola University MD, 2023). Connie earned her B.A. from Notre Dame of MD University and M.S. from Johns Hopkins University.
She is an engaged literary citizen, serving as the President of the Women’s National Book Association Mid-Atlantic Chapter and is a member of the Authors Guild, Eastern Shore Writers' Association, and Historical Novel Society. Previously, she served on the Board of Directors of the Maryland Writers' Association and as President of the Baltimore Chapter. Her new non-fiction book, Fact & Fiction: How to Write a Novel Inspired by Family and History (How2Conquer Press), will be released in September 2026.
Kent Matsumoto, a third-generation Japanese American, was born in Virginia and spent his formative years living in Japan where he attended the American School. He earned his degrees from the University of Virginia and University of Michigan Law School and has worked in law firms and private and public companies.
He has authored articles for professional publications and spoken before numerous professional organizations. Of White Ashes is his debut historical novel.
Spencer Kenney is a musician, composer, and producer. In addition to his work with Arts & Letters, he is a Co-Producer for Dallas Morning News' Sports Insider, and music supervisor, sound designer, and lead sound engineer on the podcast Firebones.
Spencer has produced two self-titled albums under his own name, as well as served as the producer for groups like Beekeeper Spaceman, and cumbia outfit Sabor Puro. Currently Kenney is working on his 3rd solo album, and composing music for film. You can find his work on YouTube, and Bandcamp, as well as all streaming platforms.
Generous funding for Arts & Letters Radio is provided by Arkansas Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities, and from listeners like you.
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Executive Producer and Host: J. Bradley Minnick
Senior Producer: Mary Ellen Kubit
Episode Producer and Music by: Spencer Kenney
Matsumoto tape sync portion recorded at WHYY, Julian Herzfeld, Media Technology Manager
