A middle grade novel of historical fiction explores a true story of the only WWII casualties in the continental U.S.
Nellie and Tamiko live on opposite sides of the world, on opposite sides of World War II. In rural Oregon, Nellie passes the time lying under the stars, wishing for her Pa to come back home, and for Joey, her next door neighbor to talk to her like they used to before his brother was killed in the war. In southern Japan, Tamiko passes the time writing in her diary, hoping one day she can work in the theater making costumes, and praying her brother Kyo will make it back home from fighting. Thousands of miles apart, the two girls share the same wish, for the war to be over. When the Japanese military recruits young girls for a secret project, Nellie and Tamiko’s lives become even more directly linked.
Tamiko and her classmates are tasked with making paper balloons. The work is arduous and relentless, and no one has told the girls how the balloons will help the military, but Tamiko believes she is doing her part to help Japan win and end the war once and for all. Nellie tries to do her part by rationing and working in salvage drives―though times are lean, and she worries for her father, the war feels worlds away. Until a paper balloon makes its way to her hometown.
Based on Japan’s Project Fu-Go during the last stretch of WWII, Falling Stars uses the alternating perspectives of Nellie and Tamiko to depict the back and forth tragedies of two countries at war. Although worlds apart, both girls understand that in a time of uncertainty and fear, blind hate for the “enemy” leaves a heavier heart and more debris. Falling Stars weaves real history with unforgettable characters who must deal with war and hatred right alongside friendship, first love, and family.---from the publisher
256 pages 978-1947627529 Ages 11-17
Keywords: World War II, alternate perspectives, Japan, United States, war, military, girls and women, 11 year old, 12 year old, 13 year old, world history
