Japanese American National Museum shop a cultural treasure trove

‘Drawing the Line: Japanese American Art, Design & Activism in Post-War Los Angeles’ DVD ($19.95)
Help the activist or historian in your life to delve into the post-World War II legacy of Japanese Americans in Los Angeles with this DVD (43 min.), which is named for the exhibit currently on display at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo. The interviewees examine how the “social, cultural and political circumstances” helped influence their work. The artists represented in the exhibit and on the DVD include: Gidra, Matsumi Kanemitsu, Nobuko Miyamoto, Robert A. Nakamura, Linda Nishio, Ben Sakoguchi, Larry Shinoda, Qris Yamashita, Bruce Yonemoto and Norman Yonemoto.

‘One Big Hapa Family’ DVD ($20)
Filmmaker Jeff Chiba Stearns seeks out to discover why his Japanese Canadian family — and that of many others in Canada — has decided to marry interracially. The live action and animated documentary explores how multiracial children perceive their unique identities, and is a great pick for multiracial advocates. The 85-minute film depicts the stories of four generations of a Japanese Canadian family.

‘Farewell to Manzanar’ DVD ($24.95)
In 1942, 7-year-old Jeanne Wakatsuki’s family was forcibly removed from their home and sent to live at the Manzanar, Calif. concentration camp. Share their story and preserve this account of the wartime incarceration. This 1976 made-for-TV film, “Farewell to Manzanar,” was based on the memoir by the same name by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston and her husband, James Houston. John Korty directed the film, which was just recently released. An interview with Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston is included in the bonus features.

‘Drawing from Memory’ Book ($17.99)
Author, illustrator and painter Allen Say’s “Drawing from Memory” is part memoir, graphic novel and narrative history. The Yokohama-born Say’s parents divorced when he was 8. Japanese cartoonist Noro Shinpei took a young Say under his wing. “Drawing from Memory” takes a complex look at the relationship between a mentor and his student. The 72-page book makes for an inspiring read for young adult readers, as well as those who are young at heart.

Clear Glass Teapot. photo by Woody Packard

Clear Glass Teapot with Bamboo Handle ($45)
This 48 oz. teapot includes a removable glass loose-leaf tea infuser, and is perfect for someone who enjoys entertaining with elegance. Made from 20 percent recycled material, the teapot features a bamboo handle and stand. Equipped with both high and low temperature durability, the teapot can be used for brewing and storage in the refrigerator. Hand-washing the teapot is recommended.

‘Growing Up in Little Tokyo Calendar’ ($10)
More than just a calendar, this gem is filled with archival photos of Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo. Every month features a seasonally appropriate photo, and is a project of Little Tokyo Historical Society’s efforts to document and share the history of the ethnic enclave. Calendar measures 8.5” x 11” closed.

The Japanese American National Museum’s store is located at 369 East First St. in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo. Hours of operation are: Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., PST. For more information, call 1-888-769-5559, e-mail museumstore@janm.org or visit http://janmstore.com. Current museum members receive a 10 percent discount.