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Review: Facing the Mountain

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Facing the Mountain
By Daniel James Brown
New York: Penguin Random House, 2023. Informational. 231 pages.

This young reader's edition follows Japanese American men that bravely fought for the United States during World War II, despite the discrimination they and their families were facing at home. The narrative discusses the successes and the staggering losses of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team (made up entirely of the Japanese American soldiers) on the European front through the experiences of Rudy Tokiwa and Fred Shiosaki from the mainland US and Katsugo Miho from Hawaii. Meanwhile, Gordon Hirabayashi was fighting at home to protest against the unconstitutional internment camps that Japanese Americans, immigrants and natural-born citizens alike, were forced to relocate to.

This fascinating and heartbreaking historical account introduces and condemns the unjust treatment of these Americans, many of whom were still willing to lay down their lives for a country that showed them no such love and respect. Readers interested in learning more about this episode in our history will find extensive resources at the end, and photographs throughout the text will help bring the individuals discussed to life. Perfect for those interested in World War II and anyone who enjoys reading about richly portrayed historical heroes.
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