Adapted for young readers from the New York Times bestseller by Daniel James Brown, Facing the Mountain is the remarkable true story of three brave Japanese American soldiers who fought for the United States during World War II while facing discrimination at home. Perfect for readers of The Boys in the Boat. After the Japanese military bombed Pearl Harbor in 1941, Japanese Americans became the subject of racism and discrimination within the United States. Many were rounded up and put in concentration camps. But even while this was happening, there were many Japanese American soldiers who fought to ensure that all Americans were safe during the biggest conflict in world history. Facing the Mountain is the story of three Japanese American soldiers: Rudy Tokiwa, Fred Shiosaki, and Kats Miho, who volunteered for the 442nd Regimental Combat Team to fight for their country in World War II. The book covers the three soldiers' deployment to Europe and the struggles of their families back home. Woven throughout is the chronicle of Gordon Hirabayashi, one of a cadre of patriotic resisters who stood up against the government in defense of their own rights. Equal parts riveting war story, resisitance history, and courtroom drama, Facing the Mountain is a fascinating and impeccably researched book that will captivate young readers. Includes black and white photos and backmatter.

著者のブラウンは、個人の物語を壮大な歴史へと昇華させる稀代の語り手です。本作の核心は、差別に晒されながらも信念を貫いた日系二世たちの魂の軌跡にあります。戦地での献身と国内での抵抗が交錯する構成は、単なる戦記を越え、人間の尊厳をめぐる深遠なドラマとして読者の心を激しく揺さぶります。 戦場の兵士と法廷の若者。この対照的な勇気は、愛国心の多様な形を鮮烈に提示しています。端正な文体は彼らが直面した困難の険しさを伝え、現代の私たちへ「真の正義」を問いかけます。歴史の暗部を直視し、人間の気高さを謳い上げる、魂の震える傑作です。