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A review by teonnareads_
Up from the Sea by Leza Lowitz
3.0
Up From the Sea brings readers into the world of Kai, a biracial teen from a coastal village in Japan, on March 11, 2011- the day a colossal earthquake and tsunami devastated Japan. Before this natural disaster, Kai felt indifferent about his hometown and life. Kai lived with his mother who worked on the oyster farm and his grandparents. Kai had often thought of his father who left his family and moved to New York. Kai's life and perspective instantly changes when "the earth starts to shake" and he witnesses "The clock flies off the wall. Time stops. Windows shatter" while in class. After evacuating and narrowly surviving being taken underwater, Kai and his hometown are left in sludge. He later learns he is the only member of his family who survived this disaster.
While living at the shelter, he experiences anger, regret, sorrow-survivor's remorse. When given the opportunity to travel to New York to meet with adults who became orphans as the result of 9/11, he takes this chance. Kai's impetus to visit New York comes from his desire to meet his father. By the end of the visit, Kai learns the importance of returning to his hometown. Once he returns, he starts a soccer team that unites and energizes his town as they receive support from around the world.
This detailed novel-in-verse accurately captures the emotions, thoughts, chaos, uncertainty, and the experience of the earthquake and the aftermath. I recommend this book to those who enjoy reading historical fiction, enjoy vivid imagery, and heartwarming reads.
While living at the shelter, he experiences anger, regret, sorrow-survivor's remorse. When given the opportunity to travel to New York to meet with adults who became orphans as the result of 9/11, he takes this chance. Kai's impetus to visit New York comes from his desire to meet his father. By the end of the visit, Kai learns the importance of returning to his hometown. Once he returns, he starts a soccer team that unites and energizes his town as they receive support from around the world.
This detailed novel-in-verse accurately captures the emotions, thoughts, chaos, uncertainty, and the experience of the earthquake and the aftermath. I recommend this book to those who enjoy reading historical fiction, enjoy vivid imagery, and heartwarming reads.