The House of Sixty Fathers

The House of Sixty Fathers follows young Tien Pao, a Chinese boy separated from his parents during the Japanese invasion of China in World War II. After becoming lost with only his pet pig for companionship, he must survive alone in territory occupied by Japanese forces. Tien Pao's journey leads him to an American airbase, where he encounters a group of American pilots who take him in. The pilots, whom he calls his "sixty fathers," provide shelter while he hopes to reunite with his family. Through Tien Pao's experiences, the story reveals both the harsh realities of war and the capacity for human connection across cultural barriers. The narrative explores themes of survival, friendship, and the universal bonds that can form even in times of conflict.

The incorrect author was listed - The House of Sixty Fathers is by Meindert DeJong. Readers highlight the book's emotional impact and historical elements depicting a child's experience during wartime China. Teachers and parents note it helps students understand war from a young person's perspective. Readers appreciate: - Detailed portrayal of Chinese culture and landscape - Strong bond between protagonist and his pet sampan - Clear, straightforward writing style accessible to young readers Common criticisms: - Slow pacing in middle sections - Some dated language and cultural references - Abrupt ending that leaves questions unanswered Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (572 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (51 ratings) Several reviewers mention using the book successfully in 5th-6th grade classrooms. One teacher noted: "My students were completely engaged and it led to great discussions about war, family, and survival." Some parents caution about intense scenes that may be too scary for sensitive children under 10.

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So Far from the Bamboo Grove by Yoko Kawashima Watkins This story follows an eleven-year-old Japanese girl's struggle to survive as she flees Korea during World War II with her mother and sister.

The Year of Impossible Goodbyes by Sook Nyul Choi A ten-year-old Korean girl endures the Japanese occupation and Russian invasion of North Korea before escaping to South Korea.

When My Name Was Keoko by Linda Sue Park A Korean family faces the loss of their culture and identity during the Japanese occupation of Korea during World War II.

The Clay Marble by Minfong Ho A twelve-year-old girl and her family seek refuge in a Thai border camp during the Cambodian civil war.

🔸 The author, Meindert DeJong, wrote this book based on his experiences while serving as a U.S. Air Force intelligence officer in China during World War II. 🔸 The book won the prestigious Josette Frank Award in 1956 for its honest portrayal of children facing the harsh realities of war. 🔸 The story's setting in war-torn China during the Japanese invasion (1937-1945) accurately reflects a period when millions of Chinese civilians became refugees in their own country. 🔸 Maurice Sendak, famous for "Where the Wild Things Are," created the original illustrations for this book, one of his earlier illustration projects. 🔸 Though the book deals with serious themes of war and survival, it was groundbreaking for its time in presenting these complex issues to young readers while maintaining hope and humanity.