In a city of hate, love can be lethal.
Tokyo, 1945. A Japanese boy too old for his years dares to cross the wasteland where he saw thousands burn to death to approach the occupying forces to get food for his family.
A young Navy lieutenant, proud of the Allied victory but appalled by the devastation he sees across the city, cares enough to help. As postwar pressures mount between the two cultures, he becomes entangled with the boy, his infant sister and his beautiful mother – at the risk of their lives and his own.
The Occupation of Joe is an emotionally powerful, post-war tragedy from Top Hat Books, publisher of quality historical fiction. Told in short, propulsive chapters through alternating viewpoints, many readers will finish this compelling page-turner in one sitting.
Meet the characters:
Isamu, a Japanese boy, a survivor of the American firebombing of Tokyo, takes it upon himself to find the food his family needs to survive.
Lt. Joe Bienkunski, communications officer aboard the U.S.S. Chourre, a man brought up to lend a hand to the helpless.
Aiko, Isamu’s beautiful mother, widow of a Japanese officer who is now destitute and desperate to care for her children.
Hana-chan, Isamu’s infant sister.
Narrated by author Bill Baynes, a three-hour audio version in MP3 format is available. Click here or the “buy now on audio button” below to purchase the audio version.
What Amazon Readers are saying about ” The Occupation of Joe”.
“A timely, important and compelling read.”
“Get the tissues out.”
“Anyone who enjoys a fast-paced and interesting reading experience will thoroughly enjoy it.”
“The story filled my heart with admiration for its fast-paced yet gentle style and filled my eyes with love for each well-drawn character. Do yourself a favor. Do not miss this remarkable book.”
“I continued to think about the characters and their complex connections long after I finished reading.”
“The spare, often staccato, precision with which the narrative unfolds lends a dramatic urgency to the telling that made it hard for me to put the book down until I reached the last page. I found myself often responding with unexpected waves of emotion.”
