Books matching: japanese occupation of korea
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- #1
Save:A moving, accessible read that teaches history through the eyes of young siblings - thoughtful, impactful, and a great conversation starter for readers of many ages.
'When My Name Was Keoko' by Linda Sue Park is a historical fiction novel set during the Japanese occupation of Korea in World War II. The story follows two siblings, Sun Hee and Tae Yul, as they navigate the challenges of living under Japanese rule and strive to maintain their Korean identity. Through alternating perspectives, the author brings to life the struggles of a Korean family trying to preserve their culture and dignity amidst the turmoil of war. The book spans five years, offering a poignant portrayal of sacrifice, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Linda Sue Park's writing style is described as descriptive and engaging, effectively capturing the emotions of the characters and the historical context of the time period. The book provides insights into Korean culture, customs, and the impact of Japanese domination on the Korean people. Readers of all ages, from young readers to adults, are drawn into the story that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of history with a mix of suspense, pathos, and a satisfying ending.
Four years ago the Olympics took place in Europe. It was so exciting. My family crowded around the radio each night to hear about the competitions. Tae-yul and the other older boys made hurdles in the...March 2002•210 pages - #2
Save:A gorgeously written, touching saga that brings a hidden chapter of Korean history to life - rich in culture, character, and emotion. Give it time to unfold; the rewards are as intricate as fine calligraphy.
'The Calligrapher's Daughter' by Eugenia Kim is a historical fiction novel set in early 20th century Korea during the Japanese occupation. The story follows Najin Han, a strong and headstrong young woman from a privileged family, as she navigates the challenges of tradition, family loyalty, and personal growth amidst the political turmoil of her time. Through almost half a century, readers witness Najin's journey from childhood to womanhood, her struggles with cultural expectations, and her determination to shape her own destiny despite the constraints imposed by society.
I LEARNED I HAD NO NAME ON THE SAME DAY I LEARNED FEAR. UNTIL that day, I had answered to Baby, Daughter or Child, so for the first five years of my life hadn’t known I ought to have a name. Nor did I...2009•405 pages - #3
Save:An unforgettable and necessary read - visually stunning, deeply moving, and essential for understanding a hidden chapter of history. Approach with tissues and an open mind.
Grass is a graphic memoir that delves into the harrowing experiences of Lee Ok sun, a Korean woman who was forced to be a comfort woman for the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II. The book portrays Okseon Lee's journey from her tough childhood filled with poverty and responsibilities beyond her age to the traumatic moment when she becomes a sexual slave. Through an interview style, the author, Keum Suk Gendry Kim, provides an unbiased report of the cruel reality faced by Korean women under Japanese occupation, highlighting the themes of war atrocities, resilience, and the fight for justice and restitution.
Grass is a poignant narrative that sheds light on the often overlooked history of Korean comfort women and the atrocities they endured during wartime. The book captures the struggles of women like Lee Ok sun, who faced kidnapping, abuse, and rape in a time of war and imperialism. Through hauntingly beautiful artwork and a compelling storyline, Grass weaves together themes of trauma, survival, and the quest for dignity and acknowledgment, offering a powerful and honest portrayal of a dark chapter in history.
August 2019•473 pages A powerful, haunting read that brings an underrepresented piece of history to the forefront. It’s moving, important, and definitely not easy - but well worth it for those ready to take on the hard truths.
Daughters of the Dragon: A Comfort Woman's Story by William Andrews is a riveting historical fiction novel that delves into the tragic events of the conscription of young Asian women by the Japanese Imperial Army to become comfort women during World War II. The story follows the lives of two Korean teenagers, Jae Hee and Soo Hee, as they endure beatings, multiple rapes, and degradation. The narrative spans through the major events of Korean history, highlighting the horrors of the Imperial Japanese government and the lasting impact on the characters' lives. The book weaves a tale of undying love, courage, and the struggle for survival amidst the atrocities of war.
The writing style of the book is captivating and immersive, drawing readers in from the opening pages and keeping them engaged throughout. The characters are vividly portrayed, evoking strong emotions and empathy from the readers. The author skillfully blends fiction with documented true events, shedding light on a dark chapter of history that many may not be familiar with. Daughters of the Dragon is a poignant and thought-provoking story that sheds light on the resilience and strength of women who endured unimaginable suffering during wartime.
2008•357 pages- #5
Save:A moving, eye-opening family epic that illuminates the Korean experience in Japan - at its best when exploring resilience, hope, and belonging. Rich in story and history, but be ready for its leisurely pace and sprawling cast.
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee is a multi-generational family saga that follows a Korean family's struggles and hardships from the early 20th century in Korea to their migration to Japan and eventually the United States. The story delves into the historical context of the Japanese occupation of Korea, discrimination against Koreans in Japan, and the challenges faced by the family through wars, poverty, and cultural clashes. The narrative spans several generations, portraying the characters' resilience, sacrifices, and the impact of world events on their lives. The writing style is straightforward, with a focus on character development and exploring themes of identity, belonging, and survival.
At the turn of the century, an aging fisherman and his wife decided to take in lodgers for extra money. Both were born and raised in the fishing village of Yeongdo—a five-mile-wide islet beside the po...February 2017•533 pages - #6
Save:Beautifully written, immersive, and thought-provoking, Beasts of a Little Land is a bittersweet historical epic that will resonate with anyone who loves powerful characters and gorgeously rendered settings - just be prepared for an emotional, sometimes harrowing journey.
Beasts of a Little Land by Juhea Kim is a poignant and immersive novel that delves into the lives of various characters amidst the backdrop of Korea during the Japanese occupation and World War II. The story follows characters like Jade Ahn, a young girl sold to a courtesan school, and JungHo, an orphan boy involved in the fight for independence, as their destinies intertwine over five decades. Through vivid storytelling, the author sheds light on themes of unrequited love, dire poverty, and the resilience of the Korean people during a turbulent period in history.
ON A DAY HOVERING BETWEEN WINTER AND SPRING, THE CUSP OF warmth just visible on the glistening ice, a woman and a girl walked ten miles of country road where tender green shoots were coming up like ey...December 2021 - #7
Save:A stunning, heartbreaking novel that's as important as it is devastating - an eye-opening read you'll remember long after the last page, but not for the faint of heart.
"White Chrysanthemum" by Mary Lynn Bracht follows the story of two Korean sisters, Hana and Emi, during different time periods. Hana, a haenyo female sea diver, is captured by a Japanese soldier during WWII and forced to become a comfort woman. The narrative is heart-wrenching, exploring themes of strength, independence, love, and tragedy. Emi's storyline in present-day South Korea reveals her quest to uncover the truth about her sister's disappearance, intertwining historical details with emotional struggles.
Hana is sixteen and knows nothing but a life lived under occupation. Japan annexed Korea in 1910, and Hana speaks fluent Japanese, is educated in Japanese history and culture, and is prohibited from s...January 2018•320 pages - #8
Save:A gorgeously written, emotional YA fantasy that’s both moving and action-packed - especially meaningful if you enjoy historical inspiration woven with magic and romance.
The Last Tiger by Julia Riew is a captivating fantasy novel set during the Japanese occupation of Korea. The story follows dual perspectives from Seung and Eunji, two characters from distinct backgrounds who initially distrust each other but build a friendship that blooms into a star-crossed love. The plot interweaves magic, historical elements, and the harsh realities faced by the Tiger people under the Dragon Empire's control. The first half is rich with character development and worldbuilding, while the latter half introduces thrilling elements of rebellion against oppression.
Riew's writing style is engaging and emotional, blending a heart-wrenching love story with realistic portrayals of the struggles against injustice. The incorporation of letters from the author’s grandparents adds depth to the narrative, connecting the personal with the historical. The pacing varies, with some readers appreciating the slow build-up while others wished for more adventure upfront. Overall, it's a beautifully crafted tribute to resilience and love amidst adversity, with the promise of more stories to come.
July 2025•417 pages - #9
Save:A beautifully-researched, emotionally intense dive into a unique world - perfect for historical fiction fans with a love for complex female characters.
Set on the Korean island of Jeju, "The Island of Sea Women" by Lisa See follows the lives of two female divers, Young Sook and Mi Ja, from their childhood in the 1930s through historical events like Japanese colonialism, World War II, and the Korean War up to the present day. The story delves into the unique culture of haenyeo, female divers who provide for their families by diving for seafood while the men take care of the children. Through themes of friendship, hardship, and forgiveness, the novel portrays the strength and resilience of these women in the face of adversity.
Lisa See's writing style intricately weaves together the personal stories of the characters with historical events, creating a compelling and emotional narrative. The book sheds light on the lives of haenyeo, the matrifocal society on Jeju Island, and the impact of wars and occupations on the community. Through a mix of past and present timelines, readers are taken on a journey through the lives of these women, highlighting their struggles, sacrifices, and the enduring power of female friendship.
My first day of sea work started hours before sunrise when even the crows were still asleep. I dressed and made my way through the dark to our latrine. I climbed the ladder to the stone structure and...March 2019•389 pages - #10
Save:A moving, accessible window into a neglected chapter of WWII history - harrowing yet hopeful. Worthwhile for historical fiction lovers, but some may find its themes and structure tough to handle.
The Flowers of War by Geling Yan and Nicky Harman is a poignant and moving novel that delves into the events of the Rape of Nanking during the Sino-Japanese war. Through well-written characters like Shujuan, Yumo, Hongling, and others, the book portrays the human side of war, balancing emotions and sentiments with the harsh realities of history. The book sheds light on the endurance and bravery of individuals faced with the horrors of war, offering a fictionalized version of the events that took place during one of the darkest chapters of WWII.
Shujuan woke with a start. The next thing she knew, she was standing beside her bed. It was about five in the morning, a little earlier perhaps. At first she thought it was the absence of gunfire that...2007•253 pages
