Discover a heart-wrenching tale that resonates with themes of identity and resilience in the face of cultural adversity.
“A beautiful and deeply researched novel…If you loved Pachinko, you’ll love White Mulberry.” —Lisa See, New York Times bestselling author of The Island of Sea Women
Inspired by the life of the author’s grandmother, White Mulberry presents a rich and deeply moving portrait of Miyoung, a young Korean woman living in 1930s Japan. Torn between two worlds, she grapples with her identity while seeking a promising future for herself and her family.
The story begins in 1928, in a small farming village near Pyongyang, Korea, where eleven-year-old Miyoung nurtures dreams that reach far beyond her surroundings. She yearns to become a teacher, fight against arranged marriages, and script her own future. An opportunity arises when she can live with her older sister in Japan to continue her education. However, this chance comes at a troubling cost—leaving her sick mother and her very identity behind.
Once in Kyoto, Miyoung faces the harsh reality of rising anti-Korean sentiment. To survive, she must adopt a new identity, becoming Miyoko, as she transitions into a new role as a nurse. Yet, as the years progress, the fear of losing her true self looms larger. In her quest for belonging, she finds solace in a local Korean church group, which ultimately leads her into a passionate romance with an activist, kindling her sense of purpose and offering her the joy of motherhood.
As the threat of war intensifies, the constraints of her adopted homeland grow tighter, leading Miyoung to a pivotal choice that will irrevocably alter the course of her life and those she holds dear. This powerful novel is a celebration of hope, love, and the enduring spirit of identity, making it a must-read for those who appreciate deeply crafted narratives.
Join Miyoung on her transformative journey in White Mulberry, and explore a tale that speaks to the universal quest for self and the unbreakable bonds of family.
