Suka's Farm

“Not only will the time period of Suka’s Farm connect children to their elders, but its setting provides a meaningful platform for conversations about empathy, heritage, and the complexities of the past.”

“In 1941, life was hard for many Koreans . . .”

Suka's Farm, written by Ginger and Frances Park, is a quietly reflective children’s picture book that offers a glimpse into the life of a poor Korean family during the Japanese occupation of Korea in 1941. With a target audience of four- to eight-year-olds, the book tells a simple yet moving story, offering a window into the daily struggles of a family on the brink of hunger in a wartorn country.

The narrative, which is without significant plot twists or dramatic peaks, focuses on the ordinary, everyday life of a young Korean boy named Kwan and his family. Through descriptive yet straightforward language, the authors create a palpable sense of hardship and resilience as the characters navigate their difficult circumstances. Kwan’s connection with Mr. Suka, a wealthy Japanese farmer, surpasses the oppressive tensions of the time and illustrates that kindness and friendship can exist even in the most tense and divisive of situations.

The simplicity of the narrative, which is based on the authors’ father’s true story, feels intentional. The lack of overt conflict or resolution echoes the reality of many people's lives during wartime. This makes Suka’s Farm a subtle, reflective piece, which some young readers may find too slow or uneventful.

The 1941 Korean backdrop, under Japanese occupation, is unique and unfamiliar to most young children, such that Suka’s Farm will expand young minds beyond their immediate world. The story may resonate deeply with children of Korean or Japanese heritage, helping them connect with the experiences of their parents and grandparents.

Tiffany Chen’s illustrations are 2-D graphic designs with flat, expressionless faces that feel more aligned with the aesthetic of a children’s cartoon series than a keepsake picture book. While the illustrations offer a simplistic clarity, they lack the emotional depth that could enhance the poignancy of the story’s themes.

Not only will the time period of Suka’s Farm connect children to their elders, but its setting provides a meaningful platform for conversations about empathy, heritage, and the complexities of the past. The simplicity of the story may not appeal to all children, but those interested in history, culture and their own ancestry will appreciate its applicability.