About This Book
Reach for this book when your child begins questioning how to maintain their personal or family identity in environments where they feel pressured to assimilate or hide their heritage. It is a powerful tool for discussing how names, language, and traditions form the bedrock of who we are, especially when those things are under threat. Through the dual perspectives of Sun-hee and Tai-yul, the story explores the Japanese occupation of Korea during World War II, focusing on the quiet acts of resistance and the internal strength required to survive oppression. While the historical setting involves the hardships of war, the emotional core is about family loyalty and the courage to remember one's roots. It is highly appropriate for middle-grade readers (ages 10-14) who are ready to engage with complex themes of social justice, racism, and sacrifice. Parents will appreciate how it humanizes a specific historical era while offering timeless lessons on resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself even when it is dangerous to do so.
