Not all Japanese families fit the traditional mold. Fuko's family is a good example of a modern trend. Tenth-grader Fuko's mother works outside of the home and all members of the family, including the two daughters and their father, share the housework. The girls are being raised to be independent; they go on trips by themselves and are paid for each chore they do, which in Fuko's case means preparing lunches for her mother and sister everyday. It's a busy - but happy - family.