The Kinship of Secrets
Eugenia Kim
Genre:
Historical, Family Drama
Publisher: BloomsburyDate Published: 2019
Book Length: 320
Format: Paperback I was recommended to read by a family member
Star Rating: 4/5 I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: In 1948 Najin and Calvin Cho, with their young daughter Miran, travel from South Korea to the United States in search of new opportunities. Wary of the challenges ahead, Najin and Calvin make the difficult decision to leave their other daughter, Inja, behind with their extended family; soon, they hope, they will return to her.But then war breaks out in Korea, and there is no end in sight to the separation. Miran grows up in prosperous American suburbia, under the shadow of the daughter left behind, as Inja grapples in her war-torn land with ties to a family she doesn't remember. Najin and Calvin desperately seek a reunion with Inja, but are the bonds of love strong enough to reconnect their family over distance, time and war? And as deep family secrets are revealed, will everything they long for be upended?Told through the alternating perspectives of the distanced sisters, and inspired by a true story, The Kinship of Secrets explores the cruelty of war, the power of hope, and what it means to be a sister.
My Thoughts: Eugenia Kim's "Kinship of Secrets" is a beautifully woven tapestry of emotions that traverses the poignant journey of two Korean sisters separated by war. Set against the backdrop of the Korean War and its aftermath, the novel follows the lives of Inja and Miran, whose paths diverge when their family is torn apart during the escape to the South.
The author's exquisite storytelling skillfully captures the intricacies of family dynamics, cultural identity, and the enduring ties that bind siblings together. As Inja adapts to life in America and Miran remains in Korea, Kim deftly explores the complexities of their individual experiences and how they grapple with their shared history.
"Kinship of Secrets" is not just a tale of separation; it's a celebration of resilience and the unyielding power of love. Kim's prose is evocative and emotionally charged, painting a vivid picture of the characters' struggles and triumphs. The dual narrative adds depth to the storyline, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the sisters' divergent yet interconnected lives.