The House Before Falling into the Sea

As war in the north increases, Kyung Tak and her family's house on the southeastern shore of Korea becomes a refuge for migrants, quickly becoming crowded, hot, and noisy. After an important talk, Kyung realizes that they are stronger when they have each other and the kindness they show one another in the darkest of times is a gift they will never regret.

Format: Hardback
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 12 March 2024
Publisher: Penguin Putnam Inc

More and more people fleeing the war in the north are finding their way to Kyung Tak and her family's house on the southeastern shore of Korea, with nowhere else to go. Their home has become a sanctuary for these migrants, their last chance of refuge before they fall into the sea. The household quickly becomes crowded, hot, and noisy, as strangers join them in search of safety. However, when the war sirens sound, Kyung and her family and their guests take shelter underground. After the sirens cease, Kyung is upset and wishes everything could return to the way it was before. But after an important conversation with her parents, her new friend Sunhee, and Sunhee's father, Kyung realizes something profound: that we are stronger when we have each other, and the kindness we show one another in the darkest of times is a gift that we will never regret.

The Growing Number of Migrants

As the war in the north intensifies, the number of people fleeing to Kyung Tak and her family's house on the southeastern shore of Korea continues to rise. Each day, more and more individuals arrive, seeking safety and a new beginning. The Taks' home has become a crowded and chaotic place, with people sharing limited resources and space. The household quickly becomes hot and noisy, as the tensions and emotions of the migrants converge.

The Last Chance of Refuge

For many of these migrants, Kyung Tak and her family's house is their last chance of refuge before they fall into the sea. They have no other options, and the Taks' home offers them a temporary respite from the horrors of war. The household becomes a place of solace and support, where people can share their stories and find comfort in each other's company.

The Challenges of Hosting Strangers

However, hosting strangers comes with its own set of challenges. The Taks' home is quickly overcrowded, and the limited resources and space become strained. The household becomes hot and noisy, as people struggle to find privacy and personal space. The Taks themselves are also dealing with the emotional toll of witnessing the suffering of their guests.

The Importance of Community and Kindness

Despite the challenges, Kyung Tak and her family remain committed to providing support and kindness to their guests. They understand that their home is a place of safety and comfort, and they strive to make it as comfortable as possible for everyone. They share their food, their resources, and their time with their guests, and they offer them a sense of belonging and community.

The Gift of Kindness in the Darkest of Times

One of the most remarkable aspects of Kyung Tak and her family's story is the kindness they show their guests in the darkest of times. Despite the crowded conditions and the emotional toll of witnessing the suffering of their guests, the Taks remain calm and compassionate. They offer their guests a listening ear, a warm smile, and a helping hand whenever they need it.

The Power of Unity

Through their kindness and compassion, Kyung Tak and her family demonstrate the power of unity and the importance of coming together in times of crisis. They remind us that we are stronger when we have each other, and that the kindness we show one another in the darkest of times is a gift that we will never regret.

The Future of Migrants and Host Communities

As the war in the north continues to unfold, the future of migrants and host communities is uncertain. The Taks' home may become a temporary shelter, but it cannot provide a long-term solution for the growing number of people fleeing the conflict. Governments, international organizations, and communities need to work together to address the root causes of migration and provide support and assistance to those in need.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kyung Tak and her family's story is a testament to the resilience and kindness of human beings in the face of adversity. Their home has become a symbol of hope and support for those fleeing the war in the north, and their kindness and compassion have touched the lives of countless individuals. As we continue to witness the devastating effects of war, we must remember the power of unity and the importance of showing kindness to one another in the darkest of times.

Weight: 397g
Dimension: 230 x 278 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780593530153