This striking work of narrative nonfiction tells the true story of six-year-old Sachiko Yasui's survival of the Nagasaki atomic bomb on August 9, 1945, and the heartbreaking and lifelong aftermath. Having conducted extensive interviews with Sachiko Yasui, Caren Stelson chronicles Sachiko’s trauma and loss as well as her long journey to find peace. This book offers readers a remarkable new perspective on the final moments of World War II and their aftermath.

Creators

Caren Stelson is the author of A Bowl Full of Peace: A True Story and Sachiko: A Nagasaki Bomb Survivor's Story, which was longlisted for the National Book Award and received numerous other recognitions. Caren and her husband, Kim, live in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They have two adult children, Aaron and Beth, and two grandchildren, Reid and Lucy.

Reviews

An important perspective on the atomic bombings, a controversial decision that continues to provoke passionate debate.

Kirkus Reviews

Frequent historical notes provide context to the events happening in the narrative: Japan’s role in World War II, the issue of racism in the war, President Truman’s ultimatum, the effects of radiation sickness, the U.S. occupation of Japan after the war, and more. Back matter includes a glossary of Japanese terms used in the book and detailed maps of where events took place. VERDICT: This sensitive and well-crafted account of a Nagasaki bomb survivor is an essential addition to World War II biography collections for middle school students.

starred, School Library Journal

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