When My Name Was Keoko by Linda Sue Park

Set against the backdrop of World War II, this poignant tale unfolds in Korea under Japanese occupation, where two siblings, Sun-hee and her brother Tae-yul, navigate the challenges of cultural erasure and identity loss. As their family is forced to adopt Japanese names and customs, the siblings secretly cling to their Korean heritage, finding solace in their shared bond and the stories of their ancestors. Through alternating perspectives, the narrative captures their resilience and courage as they confront the harsh realities of war, the struggle for freedom, and the enduring power of hope.