Year of Impossible Goodbyes Sook Nyul Choi

Year of Impossible Goodbyes
Sook Nyul Choi (Author)

Book Description
Release Date: January 1, 1993 | Age Level: 8 and up | Grade Level: 3 and up
It is 1945, and courageous ten-year-old Sookan and her family must endure the cruelties of the Japanese military occupying Korea. Police captain Narita does his best to destroy everything of value to the family, but he cannot break their spirit. Sookan's father is with the resistance movement in Manchuria and her older brothers have been sent away to labor camps. Her mother is forced to supervise a sock factory and Sookan herself must wear a uniform and attend a Japanese school.



Then the war ends. Out come the colorful Korean silks and bags of white rice. But Communist Russian troops have taken control of North Korea and once again the family is suppressed. Sookan and her family know their only hope for freedom lies in a dangerous escape to Americancontrolled South Korea.



Here is the incredible story of one family's love for each other and their determination to risk everything to find freedom.



Editorial Reviews
From Publishers Weekly
In 1945, 10-year-old Sookan's homeland of North Korea is occupied by the Japanese. Left behind while her resistance-fighter father hides in Manchuria and her older brothers toil in Japanese labor camps, Sookan and her remaining family members run a sock factory for the war effort, bolstered only by the dream that the fighting will soon cease. Sookan watches her people--forced to renounce their native ways--become increasingly angry and humiliated. When war's end brings only a new type of domination--from the Russian communists--Sookan and her younger brother must make a harrowing escape across the 38th parallel after their mother has been detained at a Russian checkpoint. Drawn partly from Choi's own experiences, her debut novel is a sensitive and honest portrayal of amazing courage. In clear, graceful prose, she describes a sad period of history that is astonishing in its horror and heart-wrenching in its truth. Readers cannot fail to be uplifted by this account of the triumph of the human spirit in an unjust world. Ages 10-up.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From School Library Journal
Grade 5-9-- Ten-year-old Sookan tells of her Korean family's experiences during the Japanese occupation as World War II ends. The Japanese commit cruel, fear-provoking acts against this proud, hopeful family and against the young girls who worked in a sweatshop making socks for the Japanese army. Relief, hope, and anticipation of the return of male family members after the Japanese defeat is short lived as the Russians occupy the country, bringing their language, their customs, and communism to the village. Equally as insensitive to the pride and possessions of the Koreans, they are as bad as the Japanese. Plans are made for Sookan, her mother, and younger brother to escape to South Korea. However, their guide betrays them, causing the children to be separated from their mother, and the two begin a daring and frightening journey to cross the 38th parallel to safety. Through Sookan, the author shares an incredible story of the love and determination of her family, the threatening circumstances that they endured during occupations by two totalitarian governments, and the risks they took to escape to freedom. Readers will get a double bonus from this book--a good story, well told, and the reaffirmation of our faith in the human spirit against incredible adversities . -- Lydia Champlin, Beachwood City Schools, OH
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.


“
I highly recommend this book to children and adults. ”
Wendy Villarreal | 9 reviewers made a similar statement
“
I read this wonderful book a long long time ago, but am still deeply movied by it. ”
"animorfgal" | 5 reviewers made a similar statement
“
I liked this so much and just wanted to hear more about the little Buddha, and the love. ”
Boston Librarian | 3 reviewers made a similar statement
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
24 of 25 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars A great book to read... January 26, 2000
By A Customer
Format:Paperback
Taking you back into the time when the Japanese ruled Korea, the book Year of Impossible Goodbyes written by Sook Nyul Choi leads you on to an adventurous story. The author describes events in such a detail that the book seems so realistic that it is confused to be a nonfiction book, when it is fiction. This story takes place in 1945, when the Japanese ruled Korea. The story is set on this one particular family of a ten-year-old girl named Sookan, and the rest of her family members. The situation that this family is in clearly shows the harsh life of the Koreans. Sookan¡¯s father was working secretly for freedom while her brothers and sisters were away, forced to serve the Heavenly Emperor. Her mother was ordered to take care of the sock factory where the ¡°sock girls¡± worked to produce socks for the soldiers while Captain Narita tried to destroy everything of the family. Then finally, the war ended, but the family was faced by another challenge. The Russians, who had been attempting to gain power over the Koreans came and the same life of when the Japanese were there, reoccurred. Not being able to stand the everyday routine of the cruel Russians, the family decided to go down to South Korea, where Americans were. From this point, not knowing what they were about to face, the family risks their life on a journey to the other side of the country. Told in the view of first person, the author describes the events so well that sometimes it makes the reader feel like it is happening around them. Also, the author uses some Korean words written out in English so it helps the reader to be familiar with the words and to feel like they know more about the Korean culture. There are so many conflicts occurring within the story that it is even hard to remember them all. One of the main conflicts is the person verses person between Sookan¡¯s family and captain Narita. Captain Narita tries his best to ruin the family¡¯s life by sending the ¡°sock girls¡± to the soldiers to give ¡°pleasure¡±, taking away the most precious things in the family, cutting down the tree that the family loved, and finally taking part in killing Sookan¡¯s grandfather. Another example of conflict in this book is the person verses herself. Sookan has to fight herself to take care of her brother without her mother while they are trying to go to South Korea. She faces many challenges and thinks of giving up, but she keeps on reminding herself that she is an older sister so she should care for her brother. Person verses society between the people of Korea and their environment is another example of conflicts in the story. Being controlled by the Japanese, people suffer by being taken away from their families and giving up their lives for the people of Japan. Then they are abused by the Russians right after the Japanese leave. All these examples of conflicts add more flavors to the plot of the story. I consider this book as one of my favorite book. One of the reasons might be that the story, in many ways, relate to my family background and the life I have. I could truly understand the situation that the family was in while reading the book and felt so comfortable reading the book because it contained many familiar Korean words. I also enjoyed very much of the author¡¯s writing style of her vivid description of every single event and her magical power of putting the pieces of the story together like how you sew a quilt together with different pieces. The story flowed as I read and glued me on to the book that I couldn¡¯t stop reading. There were some vocabularies that I didn¡¯t know, but overall, the level of the vocabulary and story seemed to be perfect for me. This book was similar to a book I read, also written by a Korean author. Because the main characters were Korean in both books and the style of the two authors were similar, I was able to relate the two books in many ways. The challenge that the two main characters were facing because of racism was the most similar thing out of all the others. I enjoyed both books very much and the two books made me want to read another book written by a Korean author. If I were to give a rating from 1 through 10 of this book, I would give it a 9. Although almost every part of the book was enjoyable, there were some parts that I wanted to fix like how I feel towards all the other books I have read. Personally, I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Korean history and it¡¯s background and would guarantee that this book will be considered as one of their favorite books like how it was for me.
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10 of 11 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent reading March 30, 2000
By A Customer
Format:Paperback
I had to read this book for a college Children's Literature class and loved it! My father served in the Korean war but I never knew much about all that happened during this tumultuous time. Sook Nyul Choi does a superb job of transferring the reader back to Pyongyang, North Korea. You feel like you are there watching the chaos hit, as if it was your own family. It is one of the best books that I have ever read and makes me want to read more about Korea and it's people. I would recommend this book to children and adults. Teachers this is a must and a great way to teach Korean War history. The student's will always remember this book!
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12 of 14 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars THIS BOOK IT SSSSSSSSOOOOOO GOOD! April 21, 2004
By "xkimi_moox"
Format:Paperback
This book is like the bomb!!! seriously!~ I mean at school when the teacher was reading it I was like falling asleep and then the teacher assigned us that we have to read ch.4 and I was like THANK GOD! only 1 chapter, so I came home that night and snuggled into my bed and then I was like oh chapter 4... piece of cake and then I was like reading and reading, and the I accedently read to like what ch. 8 and then we had to eat dinner so I put the book down, and then after dinner usually I go and watch TV but then today was different! I went back into my room and started reading the book again. Seriously! I CAN'T put the book down then all of a sudden I finished the book and then it was like what 8:30 so this book really grabed my attention and I'm thankful that Ms. B gave me the book to read. Now it's like I know the history of Korea and I know what really accually happen in the Korean and World war. This is an amazing book and I hope people my age (...) will read this book too!
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Echoes of the White Giraffe
By: Sook Nyul Choi (Author)

Short Desription
* "Wonderfully telling scenes evoke the time, the place, and—more subtly—the deep-running emotions that these people, bound by customs and besieged by troubles, were so rarely free to acknowledge."—Kirkus Reviews, pointer review
"Ms. Choi writes of social, political and personal hurts in a context few young
Americans today have experienced. Yet she tells of more than dislocation: she tells of Sookan's personal growth, indeed her triumph."—New York Times

Sookan, the unforgettable heroine of Year of Impossible Goodbyes, is now fifteen years old and a refugee in Pusan, a city in a southern province of Korea. The Korean War is raging, and she once again has been separated from her father and brothers. Anxiously awaiting any news of them, Sookan imagines a time when she can return to a normal life in Seoul. In the meantime, though she often feels sad, alone, and scared, she finds solace in a forbidden friendship and from the mysterious "shouting poet" who offers her and her fellow refugees inspiration each morning.


Gathering of Pearls 
By: Sook Nyul Choi (Author)

Short Desription
"It is easy to fall in love with this gentle girl. . . . Readers who share in this emotional journey with Sookan will grow along with her in wisdom."—School Library Journal
"Just as oysters make pearls out of grains of sand, women create something precious from their suffering. Preparing to face life alone, Sookan gathers her
strength—her pearls—and resolves to succeed."—Kirkus Reviews

As Sookan Bak, the heroine of Year of Impossible Goodbyes and Echoes of the White Giraffe, travels the long distance between Seoul, Korea, and New York City, she is consumed by questions about her future. What will her life in America be like? Will she be able to communicate and fit in? Will she do well in her studies? And has she been selfish in her decision to leave her family and pursue her own dreams? Here is the compelling, often surprising story of Sookan's first year in a very foreign country—a joyful, overwhelming, and exhilarating time.




5.0 out of 5 stars Great book for both young adults and adults, September 7, 2012
By Pauline - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Kindle Edition)
Although this is a children's book, I thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn't put it down. It makes me want to learn more about Korea's history. Year of Impossible Goodbyes covers the period from when Korea was occupied by Japan and concludes just after the DMZ is set up after WW2. It is realistic but yet not graphic when it comes to war violence and crimes against humanity. Here is an excerpt to show how violence against women is mentioned, "Those girls would rather die than be 'spirit girls' for the Emperor's soldiers. When I think of how mnay truckloads of girls they've taken to the front already... I heard half of them killed themselves by jumping off the speeding trucks rather than be locked in those latrines and used by those soldiers." If you enjoy this book and want to follow Sookan as she grows up, the author has written two sequels... Echoes of the White Giraffe and Gathering of Pearls. Year of Impossible Goodbyes is the best of the three in my opinion, but I did thoroughly enjoy Gathering of Pearls as well.
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4.0 out of 5 stars Very good book for young adults, January 4, 2012
By M "CultOfStrawberry" (I wait behind the wall, gnawing away at your reality) - See all my reviews
(TOP 500 REVIEWER)
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Many atrocities were committed during World War 2 by the Japanese, Germans, and Italians against other groups. In this book, it focuses on a Japan-dominated Korea as told in the POV of a young teenage girl. Her father and older brothers have been carted off to contribute to the cause.

While it's obvious that unpleasant things happen in this book, it avoids graphic detail that would be inappropriate for children, and presents the reality of war at an age-appropriate level, and has a lot of little details to make the story more real, such as the Japanese school program and the indoctrination they force upon the students to make them accept Japanese leadership. Overall a very good book, and while geared for an younger audience, is still worth reading.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars Easy Read, But Kindle conversion not so great, January 17, 2011
By dTHEb - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
I enjoyed the book, and it was an easy read. Mostly I read nonfiction, and a lot of history so this story was interesting as it put perspective to the plight of Korea during and following the Japanese occupation. The only negative was that whatever process they used to put the book in electronic form didn't work very well. There are many words that are wrong, but you can figure out what it should be. Just a little distracting.
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0 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Great condition, January 10, 2011
By krisnmary93 - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Needed book for my daughter's school assignment. Great price, great condition, fast delivery! Very pleased! Would recommend seller to anyone!
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5.0 out of 5 stars I completely enjoyed this book, July 29, 2009
By Boston Librarian - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Note: I am posting this review for my classmate Jon Bush, who wrote it.

It is 1945 and although the Japanese control everything in Korea, Sookan sits with her grandfather under a beautiful pine tree in their yard and they meditate and Sookan feels a little Buddha passed on from him and this is her favorite time of day. I liked this so much and just wanted to hear more about the little Buddha, and the love.

Then the girls come to work at the sock factory, desperately trying to make the quota each day while being paid little or nothing.

Meanwhile the Japanese soldiers come by unannounced and feel free just to walk in and take whatever they like and if they see something beautiful they simply destroy it for the sake of causing pain, and trample over lovely flowers. But Sookan's mother has hidden a tiny packet of seeds, a symbol of hope.

Koreans working for the Japanese even cut down the beloved pine tree, and this is too much for Sookan's Grandfather to bear, and soon he dies. But a part I really loved was when Sookan takes care of his feet, what torture he endured! But also what rage she must have felt!

Then Sookan is sent to Japanese school where the children are treated harshly, not even allowed to use the bathroom!

Then the Russians come and Sookan and her family have to pretend to be loyal Communist Party members while at the same time planning to escape to the south and freedom, where other family members have already gone. I liked this, but again, I wanted more. Loved it. What fear they must have felt. I also wanted again to hear more about the anger.

Then Sookan and her brother make the heroic escape to the south overcoming tremendous adversity, treachery, and confusion. It is bittersweet because they have survived while other loved ones have not.

I completely enjoyed this book. It has hope for anyone anywhere suffering from oppression.
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5.0 out of 5 stars Lasting Impression, March 23, 2009
By M. Sanicolas - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
I read this book when I was in 5th grade... that was 16 years ago! This book has made such a lasting impression on me. This is the first Asian Historical Fiction I've ever read (which is my favorite genre). I still remember the imagery the author wrote and a lot of the pain that the main character went through. This is easily one of the best books I've read in my life.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars love this book, December 9, 2008
By Ayanna A. Emille "xoxo diva" (nova, nyc) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Hardcover)
i read this book when i was 12yrs old and i promised myself that i would go to korea and to the dmz zone to see what she described in the book. i am now 23 yrs old and i have spent 18months in korea and am learnig to speak korean as well. when i visted the dmz i was moved to tears, with memories from this book. This book is recommended for young readers but as an adult, u would like this too. I am buying this book now b/c it is worth it 100%.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars My 3rd Quarter Book Report, March 27, 2008
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This book is about a 10 year old girl named Sookan and she lives with her mother, grandfather,aunt, and little brother. They live in North Korea in 1945. Her and her mother and aunt work in a sock factory for the Japanese soliders in World War II. They had a Captain Narita and he came by and it was her sister's birthday and mother went to go get a book from older sister at the convent. Mother gave it to her and Captain Narita told his men to destroy it. Sookan's mother can't even have a garden or else Captain Narita will have his men step on them. Her father is in the military and her sister is in a convent. Also, her older brothers were sent away tp labor camps. The war ends and the Japanese lose. The Russions take over North Korea and brainwash them into loving Russia, so Sookan and her brother must go to South Korea because she thinks that her dad and older brothers and sister are waiting for them. She hopes she will find freedom in South Korea. I think that is really sad to not have your father around or older brothers and to have to work in the sock factory. Also, I liked how her and her brother stood side by side. This book is a Fantasy book and the theme is Fictional.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars KCS - Year of Impossible Goodbyes, November 23, 2007
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Sookan is a 10-year old girl living in Korea in 1945. The Japanese have taken over and force communist ideas and laws onto the Koreans. Each day, Captain Narita inspects the house and backyard. Their backyard holds a shack that is used for sock-making. The sock-girls would work day and night trying to meet their quotas. Koreans are deprived of rice and money. The children, including Sookan and her brother Inchun, have to attend a very strict Japanese run school. When the Japanese leave, the Koreans rejoice, but are shortly taken over by the Russians. Things begin to get worse, and Sookan, with her mother and brother, try desperately to escape to the South where the Americans are.

This historical fiction book takes you along the incredible journey of 2 children as they take drastic forms of lifestyles to earn the freedom they deserve. The beginning of this book started out slow, but took fast pace when the Russians were introduced. The author has a wonderful writing style that truly makes you feel like you are part of the story, especially near the end. This is my favorite book and I recommend it to everybody of all ages. Do not miss out on this surprisingly realistic journey.
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3 of 4 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars World War II in Korea, June 9, 2007
By A. Luciano (Lowell, MA United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE) (REAL NAME)
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Sookan is ten years old, living in Korea with her mother, grandfather, aunt, cousin, and little brother. World War II is going on and things are very hard in Korea. The Japanese forces are in control of their country and they treat the Korean people like slaves in their own home, making them give up all valuables to help the Japanese army, putting them to work making clothing for the Japanese and sending the children to schools where they make weapons and learn propaganda about the Japanese army. More than anything, Sookan wishes she were with her father, her older sister or her three older brothers, who are all far away. Her father is working with the resistance forces, her brothers have been taken away to labor camps and her sister is in a convent.

Then after what seems like an eternity of being at war and under Japanese control, the war is over and the Japanese have lost. Sookan and her family think that things will be much better now, but then they find that their country has been divided into two parts. Rather than being helped by the Americans as they'd hoped, they are instead under Russian control, and the Russians seem determined to brainwash everyone into loving Russia. They make everyone go to meetings to show their support and those in authority are constantly looking for traitors. It becomes clear to Sookan's mother that they need to get to South Korea where the Americans are, and where she expects Sookan's father and brothers may be waiting for them. But will Sookan and her little brother be able to make the journey to safety?

I liked the descriptions of what life in Korea was like during the war. It's hard to imagine what was going on in other countries when we mostly hear about what was happening in our country. I also liked the interaction between Sookan and her brother. They were really nice to each other and probably wouldn't have made it without each other's help.

It was sad to read about the lives of the Koreans during the war; it sounds like such a horrible way for anyone to spend a childhood.
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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Surprisingly Engaging and Beautifully Written, May 12, 2007
By attymom (CA, USA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
You MUST read this book and the two other books by Choi-Echoes of White Giraffe & Gathering of Pearls. All three books are written from Sookan's perspective, as she grows up in the midst of the Japanese occupation, the war and in America, as a foreign college student. Aside from the cultural issues, as well as historic issues, the plot flows very well. The stories are very personal & honest. I really enjoyed these books and I know that when my kids, ages 5 and 9, get a little older, they will also. These are enjoyable and educational stories.
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4 of 6 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Book Review on The Year of Impossible, September 13, 2006
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
The Year of Impossible Goodbyes is written by Sook Nyul Choi. The book is 169 pages in length. It is about a girl named Sookan who lives in Korea during World War II. At this time, Korea is under control of the Japanese. Sookan and her family are being suppressed by the Japanese. Sookan's mother is a supervisor at a sock factory. But, the workers at the sock factory were sent away to the war, forcing Sookan's mother to close down the factory. Then, Sookan is sent to a Japanese school, where she learns about Japan and nothing else. But soon after, the war ends! Freedom at last! Sookan and her family rejoice! But neither the rest of their family nor the sock girls have returned. Sookan is worried. Also, to make things worse, Russia took over North Korea, and they again are suppressed. But, after a couple of attempts, she and her family make it to liberated South Korea!

Sookan is kind, loving, compassionate, smart child. She takes care of others and has an unbroken spirit. She is resolute and determined.

Sookan faces many conflicts throughout this book. First, she hates her enemies, the Japanese, who have been occupying her country for many years. She is taught not to hate; yet she is unable to suppress these feelings. Sookan knows that if she spoke what is on her mind, her whole family could be executed. Luckily, she is mature enough to realize this and keeps her emotions to herself.

Another of Sookan's conflicts is her attempt to escape from northern Korea. She gets separated from her mother at the passport checkpoint and is left with caring for her younger brother. Sookan is ten years old and has neither currency nor provisions. She is by herself. Escaping is very risky and life hostile. Sookan and her brother stay alive on their own and make it to South Korea; where they are reunited with their family.

Finally, the Japanese occupying Korea is another conflict Sookan has to face. The Japanese suppress Sookan's family, forcing them to do Japan's bidding. The Japanese police take their belongings to help in the war effort and force Sookan's mother to supervise a sock factory. Sookan's patience helped her wait out the war.

The author uses the reoccurring theme of determination in her novel. An example of this theme is when Sookan gets divided from her mother at the identification checkpoint and is left with caring for her youthful sibling. Sookan is ten years old and has no money or food. She is on her own. Escaping is very dangerous and life threatening. Sookan and her brother manage to survive on their own and finally reach South Korea, where they are reunited with her family. This shows determination because she is only ten in an unknown world. She has no money and has to take care of her younger brother.

Another example of the determination theme occurs at the beginning of the story. The Japanese suppress Sookan's family, forcing them to do Japan's bidding. In fact, the Japanese police take their belongings to help in the war effort and force Sookan's mother to supervise a sock factory. Still, Sookan's patience helped her wait out the war. This shows determination because she does not give up her life and try to run away, but is patient.

The style of novel is very unique. Author Sook Choi writes in first person view and adds very smooth sentences. Most of her sentences are like this,"Listening to this boy was as refreshing as diving into a cool stream". In this sentence she uses many descriptive words and there was no comma to slow it down. Choi's sentences are both short and long. Many authors use only one kind of sentence. This is what makes this novel and author unique.

The plot, characters, theme, and style are all good, which makes this book really fun to read. It's filled with adventures and many other thrilling topics. This book is great for most ages. I recommend this book to whoever loves adventure!
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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Year of Impossible Goodbyes- A Wonderfully Written Novel!, March 7, 2006
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Sookan, a young girl from North Korea, has been living at home with her brother, Aunt, Mom, and brother under the rule of the Japanese. Just when Sookan thought things would be fine, the emperor takes away the workers from her family's sock factory, and even the the Japanese are suddenly forced out, the Russians take over. Her family has no means of income and is left with their best possible decision: to escape to the south. Sookan, her brother, and her mom leave for freedom. Along the way Sookan's mother gets arrested by Russian guards. Now Sookan and her brother must find away to escape to South Korea will she can be free with her father and two other brothers. Will she make it? Fin out by reading.

I loved this book! At first I was hesitant at reading it because I was not sure how well I'd like the story, but once I began the book I could not put it down. I became enraptured in the story, hoping with the character that she would make it to South Korea. Applause to Choi for a beautifully written book!
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Year of Impossible Goodbyes- A Wonderfully Written Novel!, March 7, 2006
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Sookan, a young girl from North Korea, has been living at home with her brother, Aunt, Mom, and brother under the rule of the Japanese. Just when Sookan thought things would be fine, the emperor takes away the workers from her family's sock factory, and even the the Japanese are suddenly forced out, the Russians take over. Her family has no means of income and is left with their best possible decision: to escape to the south. Sookan, her brother, and her mom leave for freedom. Along the way Sookan's mother gets arrested by Russian guards. Now Sookan and her brother must find away to escape to South Korea will she can be free with her father and two other brothers. Will she make it? Fin out by reading.

I loved this book! At first I was hesitant at reading it because I was not sure how well I'd like the story, but once I began the book I could not put it down. I became enraptured in the story, hoping with the character that she would make it to South Korea. Applause to Choi for a beautifully written book!
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4 of 6 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars you wont want to stop reading it, March 11, 2005
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
"A Year of Impossible Goodbyes" by Sook Nyul Choi is about a young and her family being over run by the Japanese during WWII in 1945.At the time the girl lived in Pyongyang. Later, after the war and after the Japanese left the Russians, they came and took over. This book was very over whelming. The narrator put so much detail into it and its like you are Sookan. You can actually feel the sorrow and excitement in the book.
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4 of 6 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Year of Impossible Goodbyes, April 30, 2004
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Amanda Vo
4/30/04
Have you ever read one of those books that you know you're never going to forget and just wanna read over and over again? Well, Year if Impossible Goodbyes by Sookan Nyul Choi is one of those unique books. It's about this girl, who is ten years old. She has a brother named Inchun, who she loves very much, a mother, and an aunt. This book takes place during World War II, so it gives you a lot of history, as well as a story about a girl accomplishing her fears. One day, her mother decides that the time is right to run away, to be free. Along the way Sookan and Inchun lose their mother. They have to continue their journey on their own.

This story is simply amazing. Sookan is one of my favorite characters, she has strong ambition and would sacrifice anything to help her little brother. Year of Impossible Goodbyes is still my favorite book after all this time. This definitely is a "must read" book. It will surely grasp your attention.

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12 of 14 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars THIS BOOK IT SSSSSSSSOOOOOO GOOD!, April 21, 2004
By "xkimi_moox" (Seoul, Korea) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This book is like the bomb!!! seriously!~ I mean at school when the teacher was reading it I was like falling asleep and then the teacher assigned us that we have to read ch.4 and I was like THANK GOD! only 1 chapter, so I came home that night and snuggled into my bed and then I was like oh chapter 4... piece of cake and then I was like reading and reading, and the I accedently read to like what ch. 8 and then we had to eat dinner so I put the book down, and then after dinner usually I go and watch TV but then today was different! I went back into my room and started reading the book again. Seriously! I CAN'T put the book down then all of a sudden I finished the book and then it was like what 8:30 so this book really grabed my attention and I'm thankful that Ms. B gave me the book to read. Now it's like I know the history of Korea and I know what really accually happen in the Korean and World war. This is an amazing book and I hope people my age (...) will read this book too!
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars great story, yet sad and touching., November 12, 2003
By "bubbles21791" (GreenBay, WI United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This book has a great plot and is so descriptive that you feel like you are right there with her. This story is quite sad though, I must admitt. If you don't like sad stories, don't read it. Otherwise, GO FOR IT!
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2 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Year of Impossible Goodbyes, October 30, 2003
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
The "Year of Impossible Goodbyes" is a book featuring a ten-year-old girl named Sookan living during the time of World War II, 1945. Sookan's dad is with the resistance movement in Manchuria. Her three older brothers were taken away to Japanese labor camps. She and her mother, aunt, grandfather, and little brother are left in North Korea. They are making a living by working at a sock factory. They go through a lot before the Japanese leave. Shorly after the Japanese leave the Russians take control of North Korea.
When the time is right Sookan, her mother, and her little brother try to escape to the south. Along the way Sookan and her little brother lose their mother and have to escape past the 38th parallel to be free.
This is an interesting book that is a real eye opener about people living in North Korea during time of the Forgotten/Korean War. They suffered a great deal from both the Japanese and the Russians. This book would be great for children ages 10-14.
If you like this book you might also like "The Bread Winner","Parvarnona's Jorney","Mud Town","Echoes of the White Giraffe","Yang the Second and her Secret Admirers","Yang the Third and her Impossibel Family",Or So Far From the Bamboo Grove".

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2 of 4 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Year of Impossible Goodbyes, December 31, 2002
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This book was wonderful! It is about a Korean girl living in Korea while it was occupied by Japan. The girl suffers through many losses including that of her beloved grandfather, at the hands of the Japanese. After the Japanese defeat of World War 2, the girl and her country are free from the ruthless rule of the Japanese, but are now being ruled by another country, Russia. Now the girl and her family have to risk death trying the cross the 38th parallell into the U.S. controlled south. This is an exciting book with mixed emotions that will keep you wanting to read everypage. I love this book!!1




1 of 2 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Great history lesson, December 9, 2002
By Boree Kim (USA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Have you ever thought about freedom? What you ever thought about when your next meal would come? Have you ever thought about living under oppression? Living in today's world, there are many that live under fear and oppression. This is exactly what a ten-year old Korean girl Sookan is going through. She lived during the 1940's under Japanese military rule. What we take for granted today were rare commodities at the time.
I would highly recommend this book for the study of oppression and freedom in the time of war. This story although fiction really did happen in our history and is interesting to read. This story happened during World War II. However, because of what happened in the Western world, all the bad effects in Asia are almost ignored. We tend to study only our history, but there was more damage done to the rest of the world other than the Western and European countries.
One of the main universal concerns in this story is freedom. Although living in the U.S, everyone wants freedom. But what is truly freedom. Not wanting to clean our bedroom, is that freedom? Is wishing to speak your mind out loud a freedom? One of the most powerful quotes that rivet the heart is on page 164 when Sookan and her brother are trying to escape " It wasn't worth hiding anymore. It was now or never. We could see the fence..." Life and death was not a question when freedom was at hand. Many people go to great distance for freedom. This book is the best place to find it.
This book can tie into history and Language arts as the book touches all bases of humanity and survival. It is appropriate for sixth grade and up.
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3 of 4 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars Year of Impossible Goodbyes, December 8, 2002
By Wendy Villarreal - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Year of Impossible Goodbyes is a great book for children between the ages of 9-12. It teaches children about other cultures and gives them some history. The story takes place in Kirimni, a town in Pyongyang, North Korea. Sookan is the main character in the story. She is ten years old. In the time of World War II, Sookan's family was under the rule of the Japanese. The family tries to flee to the South but are captured and punished. After the war is over, the Russians take control of Sookan's family. Sookan and her brother Inchun run away to the South and are reunited with their father. There are many universal concerns in this book. But one very important universal concern in this book is freedom. Sookan and her family try to do the impossible to be free and to be able to live peaceful lives. The book gives us insights to these struggles in order to gain that freedom that they strive for. I highly recommend this book to children and adults.
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0 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books I've ever read, December 8, 2002
By "sidda" (San Diego, California) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This book is a wonderful book about a Korean girl living under Japenese rule. The things that she sees astound me, but show the strength that even children have. A fictionalized account of what the author went through, this book is moving and will stay in your memory for a long time. By the way, if you have read and liked this book, read "So Far From the Bamboo Grove" by Yoko Watkins.
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1 of 2 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars Year of Impossible Goodbyes, December 3, 2002
By j.Mercado - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
The story takes place in North Korea in the city named Pyung-Yang in the town of Kirimni. The Japanese occupied Korea during World War II. The story deals with issues like liberty and freedom. Kisa and Aunt Tiger are killed by the Japanese army thinking they were traitors. The family tries to escape the to South but are caught many times and are punished every time.
As soon as the Japanese left, the Russians conquered and the family once again are under oppression. Sookan, the ten year old girl along with her brother Inchun, runaway to the South and are reunited with their father. The book Year of Impossible Goodbyes talks about many Universal Human Concerns like, Liberty and Freedom which the author shows and explaines. I highly recommend this book for it's multicultural richness.
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5.0 out of 5 stars GoOoD BoOk ; ), January 31, 2002
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This book is about a little girl that lives in North Korea. She wants freedom, so she goes to South Korea with her little brother. It wasn't easy. They had to go through long roads, and starve.
This story takes place in a foreign country a long time ago, but it is easy to understand. Both the main characters are likable and are very brave. The author used some Korean, and Japanese but the author tells you what it all means. At first, I didn't understand the plot, but then I eventually understood. I would recommend this book to other people.
The plot was interestingly told. I didn't know that had happened to the Korean. Now, I understand how the Korean felt. If I was the little girl in that story, I would have ran away from North Korea to South Korea a long time ago.
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2 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars "Best Book I've Ever Read", August 8, 2001
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
I am making this review short and sweet. The first two chapters were a bit hard to follow, but after that I couldn't stop reading it. The book kept me so interested I couldn't stop turning the pages. I wouldn't recommend this book for kids who fully do not understand WWII or get scared easily. This book taught me to be a stronger person and appreciate family values. This is a great book for those who enjoy reading historical fiction. Best Book! ENJOY! ;-)
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2 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars One of the greatest books I ever read, August 5, 2001
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
The first time i picked this book up was in 5th grade. I started it, but wasn't able to finish it before I had to turn it into the library. Anxious to read the entire story of a young girl named Sookan, I checked it out again the following year. This time, i couldn't put it down. I finished the book with tears in my eyes. It was so sad, but so powerful. I just wished there were more. Then, a year or two later at a public library near my house i saw the sequel and immediately checked it out. I was again immersed into the hardships the family had to face just to survive. After doing several book reports on this novel, i decided to base a project on it in my 8th grade literature class. We had to research an important time in history to write a diary about. Well, i realized that there is little information in the encyclopedias about this time in Korea. I searched through every book about Korea in the school library and not one discussed the North Korean struggles with Japan and Russia. So, i turned back to Year of Impossible Goodbyes. It provided me with so much before, and didn't let me down with this one. I love this book so much. Easily my favorite, along with the 2 follwing, Echoes of the While Giraffe and Gathering of Pearls. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to read a wonderful story. I loved it, and I'm sure anyone else who reads this book will too.
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0 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Year of Impossible Goodbyes, July 12, 2001
By "gianna12345" (Duluth, MN USA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
I had to read this in my novel class. It didnt' look that interesting, but i had to read it. It actually was a great book and it was really hooking.
It's about a girl who lives with her grandfather and mother and the time when the Japenese are invading Korea. It is in the midst of a war. When the war dies down the Russians come in. They try to escape. It is such a sad book, with so many people dying. However, i loved this book so much, so i suggest you read it too.

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3 of 4 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Felt so real!, August 20, 2000
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This is one of the best books I have ever read. It is so cleverly written, that I felt like I WAS Sookan, in Pyongang, North Korea! Sookan's thoughts about the Japanese and Russian soldiers helped me to see what it was really like to live in Korea during WW2. This was a teriffic book about a young girl's life in Korea in the 1940s. I would reccommend it to anyone who wants to learn about this period!
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10 of 11 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent reading, March 30, 2000
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
I had to read this book for a college Children's Literature class and loved it! My father served in the Korean war but I never knew much about all that happened during this tumultuous time. Sook Nyul Choi does a superb job of transferring the reader back to Pyongyang, North Korea. You feel like you are there watching the chaos hit, as if it was your own family. It is one of the best books that I have ever read and makes me want to read more about Korea and it's people. I would recommend this book to children and adults. Teachers this is a must and a great way to teach Korean War history. The student's will always remember this book!



24 of 25 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars A great book to read..., January 26, 2000
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Taking you back into the time when the Japanese ruled Korea, the book Year of Impossible Goodbyes written by Sook Nyul Choi leads you on to an adventurous story. The author describes events in such a detail that the book seems so realistic that it is confused to be a nonfiction book, when it is fiction. This story takes place in 1945, when the Japanese ruled Korea. The story is set on this one particular family of a ten-year-old girl named Sookan, and the rest of her family members. The situation that this family is in clearly shows the harsh life of the Koreans. Sookan¡¯s father was working secretly for freedom while her brothers and sisters were away, forced to serve the Heavenly Emperor. Her mother was ordered to take care of the sock factory where the ¡°sock girls¡± worked to produce socks for the soldiers while Captain Narita tried to destroy everything of the family. Then finally, the war ended, but the family was faced by another challenge. The Russians, who had been attempting to gain power over the Koreans came and the same life of when the Japanese were there, reoccurred. Not being able to stand the everyday routine of the cruel Russians, the family decided to go down to South Korea, where Americans were. From this point, not knowing what they were about to face, the family risks their life on a journey to the other side of the country. Told in the view of first person, the author describes the events so well that sometimes it makes the reader feel like it is happening around them. Also, the author uses some Korean words written out in English so it helps the reader to be familiar with the words and to feel like they know more about the Korean culture. There are so many conflicts occurring within the story that it is even hard to remember them all. One of the main conflicts is the person verses person between Sookan¡¯s family and captain Narita. Captain Narita tries his best to ruin the family¡¯s life by sending the ¡°sock girls¡± to the soldiers to give ¡°pleasure¡±, taking away the most precious things in the family, cutting down the tree that the family loved, and finally taking part in killing Sookan¡¯s grandfather. Another example of conflict in this book is the person verses herself. Sookan has to fight herself to take care of her brother without her mother while they are trying to go to South Korea. She faces many challenges and thinks of giving up, but she keeps on reminding herself that she is an older sister so she should care for her brother. Person verses society between the people of Korea and their environment is another example of conflicts in the story. Being controlled by the Japanese, people suffer by being taken away from their families and giving up their lives for the people of Japan. Then they are abused by the Russians right after the Japanese leave. All these examples of conflicts add more flavors to the plot of the story. I consider this book as one of my favorite book. One of the reasons might be that the story, in many ways, relate to my family background and the life I have. I could truly understand the situation that the family was in while reading the book and felt so comfortable reading the book because it contained many familiar Korean words. I also enjoyed very much of the author¡¯s writing style of her vivid description of every single event and her magical power of putting the pieces of the story together like how you sew a quilt together with different pieces. The story flowed as I read and glued me on to the book that I couldn¡¯t stop reading. There were some vocabularies that I didn¡¯t know, but overall, the level of the vocabulary and story seemed to be perfect for me. This book was similar to a book I read, also written by a Korean author. Because the main characters were Korean in both books and the style of the two authors were similar, I was able to relate the two books in many ways. The challenge that the two main characters were facing because of racism was the most similar thing out of all the others. I enjoyed both books very much and the two books made me want to read another book written by a Korean author. If I were to give a rating from 1 through 10 of this book, I would give it a 9. Although almost every part of the book was enjoyable, there were some parts that I wanted to fix like how I feel towards all the other books I have read. Personally, I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Korean history and it¡¯s background and would guarantee that this book will be considered as one of their favorite books like how it was for me.
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1 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars I really really really love this book!, November 9, 1999
By "animorfgal" - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Hardcover)
I read this wonderful book a long long time ago, but am still deeply movied by it. I really want to read this book again, but I could never for the life of me remember wh owrite it! Now I will definetly go look for tihs book in the library.
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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent reading for youth or adults, November 9, 1999
By A Customer - See all my reviews
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
While sold as a book for youth, this is an excellent book to help understand the impact of the Korean War on a young woman and on traditional Korean values. It also shows the ability of the Korean people to overcome adversity. Inspiring without too much sappiness.
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0 of 3 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars A good tale, but not one that I would read again, September 8, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Year of the Impossible Goodbyes accurately discribes what happend in Korea at the time. Yet, the book seemed to have something missing in my oppinion. It told the story but I never really got into it and felt the emotions for the most part. There were certain parts where I did, but most I didn't. I would read it if I hadn't already, but don't be ready for the best book you have ever read. If you want that, read NIGHT!
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2 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books of all time!!!!!, July 7, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Turtleback)
Year of Impossible Goodbyes is a very moving book that has been a favorite to all the people I know who have read it. Although I have only read it about three times, I already consider it to be my favorite book. It shows the terrible acts the Japanese did to the Koreans during World War II and it shows everything throught the eyes of an eleven-year old girl who wishes that everything would be okay and her family could be together without the creulty of war. I did a book report on this book this year for one of the hardest teachers I have ever had and I could have made it 20 pages long if I wanted, but it was only allowed to be 3 pages. So, I had to try to capture the full meaning of the story in a short paper. I'm happy to say I aced it and I wish to read more books written by Sook Nyul Choi and have already read the sequel, Echoes of the White Giraffe and I conclude that they are both novels about how the love for your country, friends, and family can keep you going after even the worst things happen.
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5.0 out of 5 stars A supurb choice; very moving!, June 16, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Hardcover)
This book is one of my favorites. I cried throughout the entire book. It is an extremely moving tale and I'm sure you will enjoy it. I shared it with all of my friends! The authour is simply amazing. Over all, it is very well written. It's so moving and a true triumph. You really relate to the characters and the end leaves you begging for more! Read it today and experience the joy, pain, and triumph of this young girl and her family.
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5.0 out of 5 stars One of THEE best..., June 6, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This book is one of the best books I have ever read, and belive me, I have read a LOT of books. This book is definetly worth reading. I cryed at the end, likewise with "Echoes of the White Giraffe," the sequel to "Year of Impossible Goodbyes," just as good, if not better, as this book. I suggest you read this book!
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5.0 out of 5 stars A very powerful and well written book, May 13, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Turtleback)
In my 6th garde language arts class we read the book "Year of Impossible Goodbyes". Although I have read many WWII books, i had never read anything about the korean/ Japanese situation. I wasn't sure if i would like the book at first, but within the firts few chapters, it was hard to put the book down. Choi really had me captivated in her book with use of emotion and suspense. I liked this book so much, I am now reading the sequel," Echoes of the White Giraffe'. Although very sad, this book was very good, and i definetley reccomend it.
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5.0 out of 5 stars WOW! It moved us!!, April 8, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Oh my gosh. This book blew us away with the touching story of Sookan and her family trying to flee from their country.Winning the war against the Japanese didn't free them. The new battle came into town shortly after the Japanese left; the Russians craved the power over Korea. The impact of winning a war and then again sucked back to square one was devastating. The cruel velvet hammer that fell upon the Koreans just broke our hearts. There is no way out. The tears of emotion stained our face. The touching moment of freedom caught our eyes. We are so thrilled to read The Echoes Of The White Giraffe next, and the rest of Sook Nyul Choi's books.
P.S. We wish we could give 10 stars.

From, Kristen and Stephanie Rm. 14 5th grade Hilltop Elementary

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2 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars An exciting and moving book...great for all., August 22, 1998
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
I first read this book in the middle of fifth grade (I am going into sixth right now). From the very beginning, I knew I'd love it. It was about a Korean girl living toward the end of World War 2. Then when the war finally ends and the Koreans are free from the Japanese, Korea is divided by the 38th parallel. Sookan and her family are living in Russian Communist controlled North Korea and they have to get to American controlled South Korea. Will they make it? This book is very exciting yet very moving also. I think it is good for both young and old. I have re-read the book twice, and all times I thouroughly enjoyed it and each time I got more out of it. This book is great.
-Helge Schultz


5.0 out of 5 stars A book with substance, July 25, 1998
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
I picked up my daughter's copy of this book one evening and did not put it down until I had finished it (after my bedtime). The writing is similar to a Chinese painting: restrained, elegant and beautiful. There are lots of elements for thoughtful discussion: growth and courage of characters; coping with adversity; freedom of expression vs. propaganda; love, loyalty and the bond of family ties. This book makes so many other books written for this age pale by comparison. Teachers, if you are looking for a worthwhile book for your class, this is it!
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0 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars How I liked "The Year Of Impossible Goodbyes", May 27, 1998
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
I really liked TYOIG because it really moved me. It really did Move Me.
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5.0 out of 5 stars Exciting!, December 24, 1997
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This is a great history book, and I had fun reading it because it is so exciting! It brings out what happens under communist rule. It's a really good book!
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5.0 out of 5 stars This was an excellent book. I recommend., December 17, 1997
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Hardcover)
I would like to recommend this amazing book to both young and old. This is an excellent view from the eyes of a child during the Japanese and Russian occupation of N. Korea following WWII.
To cross the 38th parallel as a child is quite a feat, and Sook, the Heroine, did this in a very heavily guarded area during a rough time. If you would like to learn more about this time in history, you will find this book very informative and exciting.
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5.0 out of 5 stars Imaginative and thoughtful, December 15, 1997
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
This book is geniusly written. Full of emotional and wonderfully described scenes. Tear jerking and thoughtful. Best book I've EVER read! I highly recommend this fabulous book.
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5.0 out of 5 stars Heart warming and sad., November 21, 1996
By A Customer
This review is from: Year of Impossible Goodbyes (Paperback)
Hi am an eleven year old who has previewed other books for amazon but, I must say this book is one of the best I have ever read. This book may be aliitle bit too hard to understand if you are in any grade lower than third but other wise buy it. ,Why you ask, well because this book makes you want to read more and more. The end of the book is full of happiness yet there is some sadness to it too. I found out about this by one of my teachers and I am glad she had us read it. This novel is based on World War 2. It is about how North and South Korea were dived up. North Korea was run by the evil Russians while the South was ruled by the Americans. After you are finished reading this super novel be sure to pick up the "Part 2": Echo Of The White Giraffe. I haven't gotten to read the second one but, I will be sure to reserve my copy here at Amazon Books online