I am in search of partners to collaborate on a project with our 10th graders to look at World War II perspectives other than the American perspective. How and what do students in other countries learn about World War II. I am also in search of primary sources. Please let me know if you have contacts or are interested in further discussion. Thank you!
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Hello Sheryl,
I'm not a teacher, but am a Japanese American author and my book, The Last Cherry Blossom(Sky Pony Press, 2016) is based on my mom's experience in Hiroshima during WWII. It is through her 12-year-old eyes that readers witness the horror of that day.
The Last Cherry Blossom(TLCB) is written with information on the culture, mindset, and daily life during WWII before the bomb was dropped-something that has not been done before. I have enjoyed presenting my mother's experience on August 6th at middle and high schools, as well as state conferences,and webinars. Many schools have added TLCB to their curriculum for WWII in grades 5 through college.
I have a discussion guide and I also do a free Skype visit if a class reads TLCB.
My hope is not only to convey the message that nuclear weapons should never be used again; but to also reveal that the children in Japan had the same love for family, fear of what could happen to them, and hopes for peace as the Allied children had. I want the students to walk away knowing that the ones we may think are our "enemy" are not always so different from ourselves. A message that needs to be heard now more than ever.
I'd be honored to further discuss this with you.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Kathleen Burkinshaw
Recently nominated 2018 Sakura Medal, Japan
SCBWI Crystal Kite Award Finalist (southeast region)
Scholastic WNDB Reading Selection
www.kathleenburkinshaw.com
This is very exciting. I just requested your book on Amazon. Let me read, chat with some teachers and see what comes of it. Thank you so much for responding!
That's wonderful. Sounds good. I look forward to hearing from you in the future.
I appreciate your interest in other views of WWII.
Thank you!
Kathleen