- impactful story of a small coastal village in Japan which experiences a volcano eruption, an earthquake, and a tsunami
- a boy witnesses his family’s demise
- the father has much [secular] wisdom regarding grief and difficult times*
- convo points: gods/false gods, pipe smoking
Type: beginner chapter book length (but not broken into chapters)
Ages: 8-12
Author: Pearl S. Buck
*When I first read this well-written story, I was saddened by their views on “the gods,” knowing how much more peace they would find in trusting God and His providence. The author seemed to be so close to true wisdom yet just miss it.
However, I think it’s still a good book for 8-12 kids to read and discuss with parents. There are many nuggets, such as:
- how we need all types of people (we can’t all be fisherman and we can’t all be farmers)
- the benefits to maintaining a healthy patriotism for one’s homeland
- the fruit that comes from respecting one’s elders
- how trials make us stronger
The “gods” were mentioned quite a few times, so just be prepared for that angle. Overall, though, it’s worth a read.
P.S. This isn’t a blanket approval on all of Buck’s works or personal life. 😉