Set in 1940s Korea during the Japanese Occupation, this semi-autobiographical novel tells the story of Sookan, a 10-year old girl who must navigate fear, loss, and survival. Living in northern Korea, Sookan and her family endure the brutal presence of Japanese occupation forces and later Soviet forces.  They cling to their cultural identity while secretly supporting Korean independence and longing for freedom. As fear and oppression grow, Sookan and her younger brother brave a harrowing escape across the border into South Korea. Inspired by author Sook Nyul Choi’s own life, this powerful coming-of-age novel is a poignant testament to courage, resilience, and the will to be free.