We Are Not Free, by Traci Chee
We Are Not Free, by Traci Chee, is a riveting story that follows the lives of fourteen Japanese teens after the bombing of Pearl Harbor during World War II. As a collective, the teens suffer through many hardships, including racism, being forced out of their homes, and livig in Japanese concentration camps. Each teen tells their personal story following their unique experiences living through the war. Through each individual hardship, a collective story unravels, making an enthralling read.
In my opinion, We Are Not Free is an amazing book that puts into perspective how one event can impact people in different ways. I enjoyed reading fourteen different perspectives because it made every chapter feel fresh and exciting. Even with different plots for different characters, the story still has a sense of connectivity, which helps bring everything together in the end. However, one downside was not getting the full conclusions to many of the characters' stories, which was disappointing.
Reviewed by Atlas T, Grade 10
Glendale Central Library
Comments
I found We Are Not Free both powerful and heartbreaking. Traci Chee does an amazing job by showing the human side of history through the eyes of these teens. I felt deeply connected to their emotions, especially the fear and frustration of losing their freedom simply because of their heritage. The book also emphasizes the importance of friendship, courage, and standing up for what is right. It made me think a lot about justice and empathy, and I would recommend it to anyone.
Reviewed by Mariia
Glendale Central Library