Yukie's Island: My Family's World War II Story

In her autobiography, Yukie Kimura, a young girl living on a Japanese island in 1945, recounts her family's resilience and journey to healing after the war. Co-created with her son and written by Steve Sheinkin, the book explores the experiences of children during wartime and the impact of bombing on their lives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 48 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2023
Publisher: St Martin's Press

In the final year of World War II, 1945, eight-year-old Yukie Kimura resided on a small island in the northern part of Japan, accompanied by her family and the lighthouse. Despite the distance, she sensed the approaching conflict. Her days of assisting her father with lighthouse duties and exploring with her brother were replaced by weeks spent confined indoors, anxiously awaiting the potential threat of bombs. Eventually, the inevitable happened. On a Sunday, bombs were dropped, marking the end of the war. However, Yukie remained uncertain and fearful. She observed and waited, longing for a miraculous sight that would restore her ability to be a carefree child once again.

This remarkable tale is recounted in Yukie's own words, collaboratively crafted with her son, illustrator Kodo Kimura, and co-written by the bestselling Newbery Honor author Steve Sheinkin. Yukie's Island is a poignant and evocative picture book that delves into the experiences of being a child during wartime. It portrays honesty, reflection, and a powerful sense of resilience. Through Yukie's eyes, readers witness the impact of war on her daily life, the challenges she faced, and the unwavering spirit that helped her and her family navigate through the darkest times.

The book's illustrations, created by Kodo Kimura, vividly bring the story to life, capturing the essence of Yukie's island and the emotions she experiences. The colors, textures, and details evoke a sense of nostalgia and empathy, allowing readers to connect with Yukie's journey on a personal level.

Yukie's Island is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, children can find strength and find ways to thrive. It encourages readers to reflect on the impact of war, to honor the memories of those who have suffered, and to cherish the precious moments of childhood.

In conclusion, Yukie's Island is a must-read for children and adults alike. It is a beautifully written and illustrated book that offers a powerful perspective on the experiences of wartime. Through Yukie's story, we gain a deeper understanding of the human cost of conflict and the importance of resilience and compassion. This book will leave a lasting impression on readers and serve as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 285 x 227 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781250206503