Blue Skies, Troubled Waters is the astonishing true story of twin sisters, Ath and Kath, whose idyllic childhood in 1930s New Jersey is shattered by their family’s deportation to the jungles of Indonesia. Their new life, already a world away from everything they knew, is violently upended when Japan invades in 1941. At just eight years old, the twins and their family are captured and imprisoned as civilian prisoners of war.
This gripping memoir, co-authored by Ath’s grandson, plunges the reader into the heart of a forgotten chapter of World War II. Through the innocent yet resilient eyes of young Ath and Kath, we witness the daily struggle for survival, the quiet acts of defiance, and the unwavering power of family in the face of unimaginable brutality. More than just a war story, this is a tale of hope, the strength of a community, and the enduring love between two sisters who refuse to be broken.
Drawing on personal narrative, newly unearthed historical documents, maps, and poignant family photographs, Blue Skies, Troubled Waters is a meticulously researched and deeply moving account of survival, offering a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
Bookstores, libraries and retailers can order through Ingram or direct from [email protected].
To schedule an interview or for review copies CONTACT: Brian Kimmel (425) 272-5585, [email protected] & Susannah Greenberg, Public Relations, (646) 801-7477, [email protected].
Book Details:
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Brian Means "Strength" and He Brings the Power of Creativity to Everything He Does
Brian Kimmel (pronouns: he/dia) is a second generation multiheritage Indonesian American, and third grandchild to Pacific Northwest author, Martha Walandouw Lohn. He co-authored Lohn's memoir, Blue Skies, Troubled Waters, and edited the first Indonesian language version. A poet, memoirist, lyricist, composer, musician, and scholar-practitioner, Kimmel guest lectures and recitals internationally on narrative technologies and the expressive arts. He lives with his spouse in Seattle, home to the Coast Salish, and works as a mental health counselor, supervisor, and educator for the Brian Kimmel Guidance Center.
