*I received a copy of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this opportunity*

Based on the life of the author's grandmother, WHITE MULBERRY follows Miyoung from a young age into adult- and motherhood. Born to the second wife of a some-what successful Korean business man, Miyoung and her sister never enjoyed much luxury in life. As both her sisters are married off to strange men (and sent to foreign countries for better opportunity), Miyoung clings desperately to the hope of furthering her education and escaping a similar fate.

When given the chance of immigrating to Japan to live with her middle sister to attend middle school, Miyoung leaps at the opportunity to escape her own arranged marriage. However, leaving a Japan-occupied Korea for the island nation itself exposes Miyoung to deep-rooted racism and hatred. Forced to choose between her identity as a Korean or success in her new country, Miyoung sets aside her past to focus on building a future.

Compelling and deeply personal, WHITE MULBERRY offers a glimpse into the lives of Koreans during the WWII era-- and the abuse they endured at the hands of their Japanese invaders. My biggest disappointment is this story feels only half finished and there wasn't a satisfying ending to Miyoung's arduous journey.