Learn about Newport’s sister cities

Did you know that Newport Beach has three sister cities? We are lucky enough to count Okazaki, Japan, Antibes, France, and Ensenada, Mexico as our Sister Cities. From noon to 4 p.m. today at Mariners Park, the Newport Beach Sister City Assn. is having an International Festival to celebrate the unique cultures and spirit of our Sister Cities. Brush up on your knowledge of these places with some books at the library before going to the big celebration!

“Okazaki,” published by the Newport Beach Sister City Assn., is a lovely pictorial work filled with full color photos of Okazaki and the people who live and work there. Examples of the beautiful stonework crafted in Okazaki can be seen in the two wonderful statues presented to Newport Beach by our Japanese Sister City: one at the Central Library and one at the Crean Mariners Branch.

Marius B. Jansen’s “The Making of Modern Japan” is ambitious in scope, covering 400 years of the history of Japan. His emphasis on the intellectual contributions of Japan was inspired by the years he spent studying there and coming to appreciate and love the culture and the people of this fascinating land.

“A Modern History of Japan: from Tokugawa Times to the Present” by Andrew Gordon covers the period of 1800 to 2000, from the rule of military lords, or sh{omacronl}gun, to modern day capitalism. Gordon places Japanese history in context with the rest of the world, illustrating how the Japanese have contributed culturally and socially to nations all over the globe.

“The French Century: An Illustrated History of Modern France” by Brian Moynahan is 200 years of French history told through bold black-and-white photographs. Experience the sights and flavors of France captured in these attractive pictures.

“France and the French: a Modern History” by Rod Keward covers the monumental changes in the last 100 years and sets out to disabuse the reader of preconceived notions about French culture and its people. Discover a greater understanding of the contributions the French have made to our society.

Earl Shorris tells the story of the history of Mexico in “The Life and Times of Mexico” in a narrative fashion, drawing on stories passed down from generation to generation, which are rich in cultural heritage and history.