Gambatte

A touching autobiography, this remarkable story reveals that at the heart of David Tsubouchi’s life is the spirit of gambatte, a Japanese word meaning to do one’s best and never give up. The book chronicles his unusual career path from actor and lumber yard worker to dedicated law school student and politician. Tsubouchi’s story begins with the acceptance his family strove for amid the imprisonment of Japanese Canadians and the confiscation of their property, possessions, and businesses by the Mackenzie King Liberal government in 1941. Taught to persevere by his strong, loving family, Tsubouchi overcame these obstacles and went on to become the first Japanese Canadian elected to the Ontario Provincial Parliament and to serve as a cabinet minister. A classic tale of triumph over adversity, this illuminating and insightful memoir reveals Tsubouchi’s incredible journey from outsider to influential leader.