1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Park, Linda Sue. 2004. When my name was Keoko. Ney York: Random House. ISBN 00440419441

2. PLOT SUMMARY

The story takes place during Japanese occupation of Korea in World War II and deals with how the invaders dominated society and imposed their culture on the Korans. Everyone must read and write Japanese and take Japanese names. Young Sun – hee becomes Keoko and, although forced to act Japanese, struggles to maintain a hold on her culture. A series of events unfolds covering the full period of Japanese control from 1940 to 1945. With the liberation of Korea we leave Keoko, now Sun-hee again, retrieving her suppressed identity and rebuilding her life.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Linda Sue Park imparts a subtle eloquence to this fascinating and disturbing story of culture clash. Through the thoughts of Sun –hee and the other characters we share the fears and confusion of their daily lives under Japanese. Readers gain insight into Korean culture as well as respect for people engaged in a hidden struggle to salvage their heritage. The novel provides much material for discussion as it reminds us that wars are fought not only with guns but also words and ideas.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT

“Linda Sue Park's historically and emotionally accurate novel (Clarion, 2002) about Korean life under Japanese domination during World War II helps listeners understand how individuals cope in times of political repression.(…) This is an excellent addition to middle school collections, offering an angle that has long been missing from the literary shelf. ”

Mandell, P., & Goldsmith, F. (2003). When My Name Was Keoko. School Library Journal, 49(12), 76. Retrieved from Academic Search Complete database.

5. CONNECTIONS

Kadohata, C. (2004). Kira-kira. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.ISBN: 9780689856396