Vern Sneider (1916–1981)

A small Asian island nation (roughly equivalent to Okinawa) is being given independence after US occupation -- to the shock of the Americans, the people vote to restore their traditional monarchy, and the new king turns out to be a college boy from Ashtabula, Ohio. Fortunately for him there is an attractive young duchess in the picture, and eventually even the meddlesome Americans accept the situation. Considered against the realities of genuine newly independent natins, this is pretty silly, but at least it does suggest that nations may prefer to keep their own traditions.… (mere)

This is a mildly diverting, gently satiric novel set during the American occupation of Okinawa following World War II. Hapless Captain Fisby is in charge of rebuilding the village of Tobiki, in compliance with "Plan B", the brainchild of by-the-book Colonel Wainright Purdy III (and, to be truthful, his wife back in the States). Purdy and Fisby are both clueless about the culture, nature and inclinations of the native population, officially referred to as "enemy civilians". What ensues is an endless sitcom of the Sgt. Bilko/McHale's Navy/M.A.S.H variety, with less creativity and hilarity than the latter, but more wisdom and insight than either of the former. At first there was a suggestion of paternalism that made me very uncomfortable, and I nearly Pearl-ruled the book. As I continued reading, however, it became clear that the objectionable attitudes were those of the ignorant or superior-feeling characters, not of the author. Captain Fisby comes to rely on his interpreter, Sakini, not only to communicate with the villagers, but to understand them culturally and individually. The end result is a new village, influenced by Western thinking to be sure, but addressing the needs and desires of the local people in ways both traditional and innovative. This novel is neither profound nor particularly subtle, but I think it's better than its light tone suggests.… (mere)