There is something about a family saga. Reading a family’s journey through life, through the trials and tribulations that accompany it, is one of the most powerful forms of fiction. When that story focuses on a particular group of people whose voices and stories have been suppressed, it is even more powerful.

This novel follows a family as they navigate immigration, racism, suicide, illness, death, and their cross-cultural identity as Koreans living in Japan. In my effort to avoid all spoilers, I have not named the family because of the different names used throughout different stages of their lives. But even their names themselves are a source of conflict within the story. They have a Korean name and a Japanese name. Each member of the family struggles with this, this sense of not knowing where you truly belong.

As they navigate this world that does not always treat them like people, you are reminded that this is historical fiction. This is based in fact. This story is inspired by the stories of people who experienced many of the things outlined in this book. And it breaks your heart.

This is, honestly, one of the best books I’ve ever read. It makes you question. It makes you feel. It makes you learn.

If you want to learn, or cry, or learn and cry, then definitely check out this amazing read.