Forgotten Reflections: A War Story

by Young-Im Lee

In the current international climate where North Korea takes center stage, “Forgotten Reflections” weaves an inspirational tale of family, lost memories, folklore and an unforgotten history, spanning three generations as South Korea rises from the ashes.

DARE TO DREAM IN THE MIDST OF WAR. 

1945. Rice fields seem endless in a quaint farming village of South Korea, yet Iseul the villagers have been starving for as long as they can remember. Their Japanese colonizers have taken every last grain with them as they are finally forced out of the Peninsula. In the newly independent Korea, Iseul and Jung-Soo dream of what their future might bring. Yet, war is on the horizon, and Iseul has fallen for an alleged North Korean communist spy.

Men are conscripted and rice is taken to feed the growing army as the Peninsula is thrust into an international war that would determine if the strategic region will become communist or democratic. With nothing but the news of death and hunger awaiting the village of women, children and the aged, Iseul musters up whatever hope she has left to bring the village together to make paper. Soon, the village once known for its rice, becomes famous for its paper, becoming a beacon of hope for their battle-worn soldiers awaiting letters from their loved ones.

Yet spies and communists continue to roam South Korea, turning neighbors and families against one another. For years, Jung-Soo has been suspicious of his father’s allegiances. With a series of mysterious revelations about his father, Jung-Soo is forced to choose between his tainted communist past, and the future he hopes to have with Iseul after the war.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, War

534 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2017

About the author

Young-Im was born in Mokpo, South Korea and relocated to Manila, Philippines where she grew up in an international setting. She graduated from Seoul National University with a BA in English Literature and from the University of York (UK) with an MA in English Literary Studies.

Reviews

[zelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forgotten Reflections, written by Young-Im Lee, is a powerfully poignant novel set in South Korea, during a particularly tumultuous time period remembered as the Korean War. There are occasional interjections that take place in the present, told through the narrator's (Iseul's granddaughter) point of view in a relaxed, conversational tone that almost seems to be beckoning readers to join the story.

I was totally cheering for young, fiery-tempered Iseul, who--excuse my language--gave zero shits that Jung-Soo was the son of a wealthy and influential politician who may have been a North Korean spy. She absolutely refused to simply accept his arrogance and proceeded to take him down a notch. After their rocky first encounter, the two eventually grow up to become great friends, along with a disabled boy named Yeong-Hoon, in Yeoju, a rice-farming province situated in the sloping valleys of central Korea. But when war threatens to tear apart the Korean peninsula, the trio's happiness is disrupted, as Jung-Soo is conscripted into the army.

As history would have it, the war does not go well for South Korea. The army is worn down and short on supplies. Their American allies want to be home by Christmas. Jung-Soo, who loves tinkering with radios and guitars, and Dae-Gun, a friend he saves from the front lines, are reassigned to an intelligence unit, where they learn that the North Korean and Chinese armies are strategically poised to wage war in Yeoju, where Iseul still lives. Meanwhile, Iseul uses her knowledge of crafting and carpentry to create hanji paper for neighboring villages and soldiers in the South Korean army. She is wildly successful, and people begin mailing blank pages to their sons and husbands serving in the army, circumventing the severe shortage of paper. Worried for the safety of Iseul and his hometown, Jung-Soo desperately wants to warn her and the others living nearby to evacuate, knowing that the North Koreans and the Chinese may be headed to Yeoju due to rumors of a massive rice storehouse, enough to feed the two starving armies.

The character development was phenomenal, especially for Jung-Soo. I watched as he grew and matured from a spoiled, entitled child into a young man acutely aware of the world around him and his role in it. The plot was well-paced and never dragged. The drama, tension, emotion, all of it-- was interwoven neatly together, creating this emotionally evocative masterpiece.

This fine piece of writing kept me at the edge of my seat, constantly worried for Jung-Soo and Iseul, and wondering if they would ever find each other again and start a new life together. I laughed at their banter and bickering. I almost sobbed my eyes out. My emotions were played again and again, and it was wonderful! My heart is full, yet it hurts because of the bittersweet ending that I won't be spoiling here.

I actually finished this book a few days ago, but did not start writing this review until I sorted my feelings out in order. The novel really stuck with me over the last couple of days, and I'm happy to say that Forgotten Reflections is my first five-star read of this year.

Don't be intimidated by the sheer size of this book. I promise you that every one of the 500+ pages are worth it. I consumed them all in one sitting because I just couldn't seem to put the book down! Rarely do I see such a well-written historical fiction novel with a cast of characters from Asia. If you love modern cultural and historical fiction infused with elements of the bildungsroman genre, please, PLEASE give this literary gem a read!

[Ken · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The plot was engaging, the characters likable, and the ability of the author to describe the world(s) she builds is impressive.

Without giving too much away ( I write this review specifically to avoid plot elements, and character development), I would like to give a brief synopsis: The story that unfolds is that of two people; or rather three people. We first meet our narrator Kim Jia who narrates to us (the reader) how she came to learn of her grandmother's past, and her journey to find all that she could about a place, and a person who has not only been lost to time, but even to the memories of the only one left to know them before they would be lost forever.

We are soon introduced to our protagonist Ji Iseul, the same grandmother, though no longer an old woman dying in a nursing home, but transformed into a young, and feisty daughter of a carpenter living at the outskirts of the small farming village of Yeoju in the once united nation of Korea. Within just a few pages she will meet Jung-Soo; a spoiled, annoying child who finds out almost instantly he has met the one person he cannot boss around. The Prince of the Golden Palace has been bested by a carpenters daughter.

This story is not really about the Korean War, though it does propel the events, This story is really about two people (three if we count our guide Kim Jia), who history would never remember, but who driven by events beyond their control, strive to not be controlled by fate, by circumstance, or by the legacy of their family name. it is easy to love Iseul, to admire her strength, and more importantly to want to know what secrets shrouded in the cloudy corners of her mind. Jung-Soo is transformed from a spoiled brat into a adult seeking to be his own man, and to protect the one person for whom he would give anything up for, even his own reputation and memory.

The journey these two take, together and apart, is fascinating, the numerous secondary, and tertiary characters are all well developed, and I promise you will grow attached and fond of many of them. And hopefully you will keep reading, hoping to unlock the past on the next piece of aged and browned paper....

*****

When I began thinking of how I would construct this review something struck me, a similarity with "All Quiet on the Western Front" In many ways I found this story to be a spiritual successor to that book, and I believe it can have the same impact on readers as Remarque's book had on myself, if you'l allow me a few minutes to digress from my review. I first read All Quiet on the Western Front as a child, I was introduced to a group of characters (German soldiers) fighting on the western front of the First World War, the story was not really about the war, but about the lives of the boys, who became men, who fought, and died in the trenches of France. That book started what really became a life long interest in the First World War. -- (I even wrote my thesis about the war--tangentially) My fascination and interest with that conflict grew out of that book, and its description not of the battles; but of the humanity of the characters involved

This takes me back to "Forgotten Reflections" and the Korean War, The Korean War for many, people (especially in the west / America) is really The Forgotten War. The reasons for this could fill a book twice as long as 'Reflections', but I think it had much to do with world wide exhaustion from the previous conflict, a (thankfully) much small causality numbers for every nation that wasn't Korea (and China), and the fact it (and yes this is a vast over simplification) didn't accomplish anything, the country is still split to this day. There was no Hitler to defeat, and there were no Churchill's or Roosevelt's the world could laud.... Everywhere outside of the Peninsula, the war happened, then the fighting stopped and things never changed.... people moved on.

There are no "Saving Private Ryan's", or "Patton's" about Korea, the most we ever got was M*A*S*H*, and while that was set during the Korean war, it was clearly about Vietnam... The war wasn't taught in detail if at all in school....people simply forgot....

I believe what Young-Im Lee has done, if not her intention, is tell a story that could be the impetus for a reawakening of the public imagination and interest in the Korean War, a desire to find out the truth about the real Jung-Soo(s) and Iseul(s) that lived and died in the mountains of Korea during those years.

*In the interest of disclosure the author provided a copy of this book, to ask for an honest review*

[Ronald Keeler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forgotten Reflections by Young-Im Lee is described on its cover in small script as “A War Story.” True, a large part of the story is centered around the Korean War for which an armistice to end fighting was signed in 1953. As many leaders in modern day governments point out, there has not yet been an agreement to end the war signed. Much of the action described in the book takes place in a time between the Japanese Army leaving Korea after WWII and 1953. The overall context is a story about people surviving a war, extreme hardship and poverty, and constant hunger while at the same time living a life of social relationships that include love, a sense of duty, and faithfulness to one another.

Ji-Iseul is the center of the story. When the reader first meets her, she is being moved to a senior citizen hospice. She can no longer be cared for at home because the steady advance of Alzheimers requires more constant care than members of her immediate family can provide. One member of that family, granddaughter Jia, remembers a time when Iseul could tell stories, a time when Iseul was coherent. She helped Iseul move to the new community and remembered to bring Iseul's guitar to the new home. When Iseul was not staring out a window at city lights, she would stare at the guitar and occasionally mutter a name, Yeong-Hoon. The granddaughter found a very old letter secreted inside the guitar that matched some similarly old documents at her home. Further examination of the documents and reflection on the names Iseul muttered led the granddaughter on a journey to the village where Iseul grew up in order to find out more about her family history.

The village where Ji-Iseul grew up didn't have a name, only a nickname, the “Wastelands.” Life was bleak and centered on survival. Rice and anything that could be eaten with it or in place of it occupied villagers' thoughts. A barter economy allowed Iseul to trade firewood she collected for food from a house that served as the village restaurant. Her father was a carpenter as she would later be, although her skills advanced to the point of making guitars rather than furniture. There is a fascinating account of how she came to make paper, a skill she would years later use in support of anti-communist military factions during the Korean War. The story of Ji-Iseul's life takes priority over a story of military battles even though she is involved in some of them.

Ji-Iseul, Jung-Soo, and Yeong-Hoon are three characters who drive the story. They, their discourse, and behavior with subordinate characters reveal much about social relationships. The Korea described is a stereotypical patriarchy. Iseul's father was proud of her because she could and was willing to work like a man. The person making paper was looked down upon through expressions such as “At least I am not a papermaker.” At various points in the account Iseul's gender was questioned, In other words, she wasn't beautiful; at one point in the account she was described as “averagely attractive.” And she along with almost everyone in the village were desperately poor. Except for Jung-soo. He was the son of a man who profited from the Japanese occupation of Korea by acting as a tax collector for them. Taxes were to be paid in rice and Jung-Soo's father made sure villagers paid as much as possible. Not all taxes collected went to the Japanese. Enough was kept back to build the finest house in the village. Named the “Golden Palace,” it had electricity, the only house to have it. Jung-Soo lived there with his personal bodyguard and servants. His father was gone a lot; some villagers thought he might be engaged in secret political and economic activities with communists in North Korea. Nevertheless, money talks and when Jung-Soo's father visited the village, his word was law. When he was not in residence Jung-Soo, with the help of his bodyguard, was in charge. Heong-Yoon is our third central character. A helper in the furniture shop of Iseul's father, he was betrothed to Iseul in an arranged marriage. Readers will get the impression that the mildly crippled Heong-Yoon always loved Iseul and wanted to remain in a close relationship with her even when he saw signs of romance between Iseul and Jung-Soo.
This is a novel of sadness, resignation, and bleak despair. It is filtered through an ill-defined cultural screen that the author describes after the end of the story. Young Im-Lee writes that she is not a typical Korean. She left the country one year after her birth for the Philippines. Her BA is from a Korean University, her MA is from the UK, she lives in Seoul, Korea. As a multicultural citizen of the world, she has received criticism for not being Korean enough and for being too Korean. Her reflections and disclaimer after the end of the story are valuable in explaining how the characters of her novel behave. This is not a book I would have expected if it were written by a Korean in the Korean language and then translated into English. At the same time, I would not expect a book like this to be written by a US- born Korean with only outside knowledge of the country. It would be good to pay attention to the author's afterwords.

This is not a happy book; I cannot think of the ending as a good one. There is so much gloom in the story that a reader might feel it is time to just give it up and go to the Han River bridge. What follows are a few of the passages that evoked the most empathy or sympathy from me.

In a reflection on war, Iseul thinks about how much she wants things to return to “before the war.” Hyeong-Soon answers ““Before this war, the Japanese were here. Before the Japanese, the Chinese had always been on our doorsteps. How far back should we go? Goryeo, Joseon Dynasties?” (p.264).

Here is an observation on Alzheimers: “The mind is a ruthless thing, wasting away quickly, but just slow enough to be aware that something is amiss.” (p.127).

This is Iseul at the end of her life in the hospice: “She saw herself as she was—a bitter old woman, dying alone as her children toiled and toiled out there in the bright lights for their own children to one day toil some more.” (p.492).

This is from the author's closing remarks on Korea: “We are a nation of survivors who somehow made it out the other end and kept going, just waiting for the next bomb to drop.” (p.511).

This is also from the author's closing remarks on class and status: “We are a nation running on the fumes of men who think their status, age and money is wisdom incarnate.” (p. 517). This observation is not confined to Korea. (My note).

SUMMARY: This is a long book worth reading carefully. Readers might be amazed at the resilience of ordinary people forced to rely on themselves in the face of horrible events that seem to go on without end. Readers might also be appreciative of their lives in less restrictive societies.

[Pamela Peerce-Landers · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Forgotten Reflections" reflects the lives of two people, the author, Young-Im Lee and her maternal grandmother, Iseul. Iseul was a feisty, rural carpenter, whose love of guitar music and the help and encouragement of several men in her life, led her to build a renowned, international guitar-making business which lifted her and her family from poverty.

The story begins with Iseul around 12 encountering Yung-Soo, an entitled rich kid. She will not back down and her obliviousness about tact, endears her to him as well as to her father's apprentice, Yeong-Hoon. The three become fast friends.

The Korean War separates them--Yung-Soo's father is sympathetic with the North and following a tragedy in their home town, Yung-Soo is branded a traitor. He changes his family name from Ham to Kim and joins the South Korean army. He is teamed up with a soldier named Dae-Gun who he considers an idiot and they are tasked as spies. Slowly, Yung-Soon gains respect for his partner, who as it happens, carries a guitar with him and speaks English.

Iseul befriends a woman who did not like her and together, they make paper to send to South Korean soldiers so they can write home. Other village women join them and this group of women make enough paper to meet the needs of much of the South Korean army.

During most of the book, I wondered who did Iseul marry? Yeong-Hoon to whom she was betrothed or Ham Yung-Soon? The latter would seem the obvious choice since he was rich. The author does a masterful job at keeping the reader guessing until the end.

The story unfolds because Iseul's granddaughter becomes interested in unraveling her grandmother's past after finding an old letter hidden in a guitar in her grandmother's room in a high-rise home. Neglecting her studies for the national exam which determines which college one attends, the author seeks to find and speak with people who knew her grandmother.

Not going to say much more so I don't ruin the story.

This story was compelling to me for several reasons:
It provides a prospective on the Korean War from a Korean civilian's perspective.
It is very timely given the ongoing North Korean crisis.
It suggests strong, independent women, like the author's grandmother, were influential and respected in South Korea even 67 years ago--something I found surprising but welcome.

The book's translation into English is rough in places, but doesn't adversely affect the storytelling.

My main criticism is the author does not define key Korean words, like han. Considering Google does not have an accurate definition and the meaning of han is key to fully understanding the story, I am forced to drop a star. A one-page glossary would have helped the author's readers to better understand Korea.

All-in-all, I found "Forgotten Reflections" a good read.

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

With the world’s current tensions around Korea’s divided land, Young-Im Lee’s Forgotten Reflections is perhaps a timely tale. It’s a story of contrasting worlds, the Korea of the past with its candle lights and the present day world of high-rise inhabitants gazing down on the tail-lights of cars. The young protagonist’s grandmother, a survivor of the Korean War, has moved into a high-rise home. But a treasured possession reveals the first clue in a curious secret, sending the granddaughter eagerly seeking for more.

Author Young-Im Lee has a deft ability to present explanations without interrupting the story, a skill that’s invaluable in bringing to life the world of old Korea. Both sides in the battle believe “their cause is just as worthy—enough to die for,” and a sardonic warrior responds, “Some world we live in.” Perhaps it hasn’t changed.

The story weaves past and present, and carries readers to village and palace, to a mystery of hidden wealth in a land where it’s no longer clear who is master and who is slave. The Japanese are gone. The Americans are coming, or the Communists, or… (If, like me, you’re watching Ken Burns’ Vietnam, you’ll have even of a sense of déjà vu—the world doesn’t change!)

I enjoyed the vivid depiction of different lives in a different world, the evocative recreation of different ideals, and the genuine blend of mystery, danger and romance. Forgotten reflections reflects on the past, invites readers into past lives, and in turn points its mirror to the present. A skillful tale whose occasional minor typos or mistranslations are easily forgiven, it’s highly recommended.

Disclosure: I was given an ecopy and I offer my honest review.

[USOM · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was such a great book, one that doesn't even hit you till the last page. I loved the way it's narrated, and how it switches between not only past and present but also people. additionally the plot was incredibly twisty and whenever I thought it would be it, there was another surprise, the ending being the biggest!

it was great to read and spend time in this historical fiction novel.

disclaimer: I was sent this book by the author in exchange for an honest review
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A tragic, emotional and powerful story about the reality of war and its impact on both a nation and the everyday people living through that war takes center stage in author Young-Im Lee's Forgotten Reflections: A War Story. Here's the synopsis:

In the current international climate where North Korea takes center stage, “Forgotten Reflections” weaves an inspirational tale of family, lost memories, folklore and an unforgotten history, spanning three generations as South Korea rises from the ashes.

DARE TO DREAM IN THE MIDST OF WAR.

1945. Rice fields seem endless in a quaint farming village of South Korea, yet Iseul the villagers have been starving for as long as they can remember. Their Japanese colonizers have taken every last grain with them as they are finally forced out of the Peninsula. In the newly independent Korea, Iseul and Jung-Soo dream of what their future might bring. Yet, war is on the horizon, and Iseul has fallen for an alleged North Korean communist spy.

Men are conscripted and rice is taken to feed the growing army as the Peninsula is thrust into an international war that would determine if the strategic region will become communist or democratic. With nothing but the news of death and hunger awaiting the village of women, children and the aged, Iseul musters up whatever hope she has left to bring the village together to make paper. Soon, the village once known for its rice, becomes famous for its paper, becoming a beacon of hope for their battle-worn soldiers awaiting letters from their loved ones.

Yet spies and communists continue to roam South Korea, turning neighbors and families against one another. For years, Jung-Soo has been suspicious of his father’s allegiances. With a series of mysterious revelations about his father, Jung-Soo is forced to choose between his tainted communist past, and the future he hopes to have with Iseul after the war.

I have to say, this was one of the most emotional stories I've read in recent years. The true heartbreak of the impact of war is felt throughout each and every page of this story. Never has a book been more relevant, as the struggle between North and Souther Korea (and the rest of the world) continues to be a constant focus in our world today. The struggle of those innocent soldiers and simple villagers looking to survive made this story have an incredibly huge impact. The relationship between Iseul and Jung-Soo is the emotional core of this tale, and the modern day mystery of what happened to the two friends and romantic partners keeps the reader hanging by every page.

The writing was beautifully done. While the book is a long one, (nearly 600 pages), the story is so enrapturing that you find yourself drawn further and further in. The most impactful thing about this book however is while the setting is incredibly vivid and highlights the struggle of both North and South Korean citizens back during the war, but it shows the affects of war in general. The heartbreak, the tragedy and the impact the constant death and struggle has on both soldiers and citizens alike.

Overall this was an incredible read. Filled with emotional connections you don't always find in historical fiction and with a lesson on love and trust, this is a must read for any historical fiction fans out there. If you haven't yet, be sure to read author Young-Im Lee's Forgotten Reflections: A War Story today!

[Tony Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seoul, South Korea. Ji Iseul (84, Granny (Alzheimer’s) was in the Sky Hospice Center.
Ms. Jia Iseul (17, student) came to see her quite often.
Yeong-Hoon (Jung-Soo’s father, cripple) is Iseul’s fiancé.
Jia Iseul also made daily wood deliveries to other Korean PPL.

The news broadcaster informed the citizens the UN Secretary General will be sending American military troops to the Korean Peninsula to help aid the Chinese & the Soviet Union forces.
What did Jia Iseul find out when she went to Yeoju, Seoul, South Korea (small farming village, rice capital)?
10/17, Code blue, code blue! Flat line. Ji Iseul time was up.
What later happened to the Captain of the Guard?
Private Kim Jung-Soo had joined the Republic of Korea Armed Forces & was in the 18th. Infantry.
Massacres at the Han River bridge & Nakdong River had taken many lives.

Ham Young (Communist Brigade Leader) was burned alive.
Commander Lee requested to see Private Kim Jung-Soo & Park Dae-Gun (orphan).
He had promoted them to liaison officers.
Kim Jung-Soo & Park Dae-Gun will be stationed at the U.N. basecamp with the 5th. Cavalry Regiment.
They both will retrieve/translate/decipher the encrypted codes from the North Korea Army.
Then the information will be given to Commander Rogers.
Sergeant James Jones, Captain Gonzales & Zion an orphan boy welcomed the 2 of them.
Lieutenant Smith, & Sergeant Richard Martin welcomed 2 other Korean soldiers Gil Dong, Doo-Hyung, to the base camp also.
Kim Jung-Soo (18th. Infantry division) screamed into the radio transmitter: North Korean forces are headed to Yeoju. Retreat. Retreat.
Iseul noona (f) was an orphan. Mr. Lim (scholar) did his best to entertain & teach the youngster educational stuff.
Much later as shots were being fired Mr. Lim was heading for Iseul & Yeong-Hoon (f).
Ham Jung-Soo, Doo-Hyung (North Korean) & Gil-Dong (North Korean) were trying to not get killed.
They needed to get to the Golden Palace warehouse where the enigma machine was.
What was Dae-Gun translating that Commander Lee was saying to both Iseul noona & Commander Rogers?

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well written historical fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Korean war movie, or better yet a mini TV series. Kind of tough to follow but I will defiantly rate it at 5 stars.

Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[Viviane Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

1945 ended WWII and South Korea is still recovering from the Japanese Occupation. Anything that was edible was stolen by Japanese troops, therefore the poverty and struggles of farmers and local businesses is an ever-present, poignant reminder of the terrors of war.
Ji-Iseul, Jung-Soo and Yeong-Hoon are the three main characters in the story, which changes from present to past repeatedly. Ji-Iseul initially is an elderly person being moved into a hospice as she is suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s disease. The granddaughter Jia encourages her to tell what she can remember, inspired by a guitar that sits in the corner of her grandmother’s room. An old piece of paper is found inside the guitar and that is the catalyst that makes the memories return to Iseul.
The relationship between the three characters is depicted as a close one, although the reader is never sure whether a romance is developing or not between Iseul and Jung-Soo. Iseul is not that attractive but instead is admired by her father because she is such a hard work at “making paper,” a task that is quite difficult. Jung-Soo’s father is a rich man forcing the neighborhood to pay high taxes and living in a rich man’s home known as “The Golden Palace.” Yeong-Hoof is crippled but works hard for ISIL’s father. He is betrothed to Iseul but nothing further comes of that until the Korean War.
The life of the Koreans before and after the Korean War is a hard one, fraught with poverty and suspicion. One character, it is believed, steals rice that the people desperately need. American soldiers are portrayed as caring one minute but callous to the needs of the people the next. During war, some can leave without worrying about the future of the people left behind.
This isn’t a comforting story but it’s a necessary one. The author writes an epilogue about the Korean people being victims who have not truly decided what their country should be, democratic, communist, or otherwise. They believe more war will come. Whether that happens or not, this is a novel for the world to read, to realize that work, relationships and growth with change is vital for a people to become secure in themselves and not always dependent on the prevailing opponent waiting to devour more of a victimized South Korea. Recommended, despite some minor flaws in plotting, historical fiction!

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

This historical novel takes place in South Korea, both during the mid-20th century, and in the present day.

In 1945, Korea's Japanese occupiers had just left, leaving a devastated country behind; there was very little to eat. Iseul was a young woman living in a village called The Wasteland, which was part of Yeoju (back then, Yeoju was a county; it became a city in 2013). People believed that village carpenters, like Iseul's father, could put ghosts in chairs and tables that they made, so Iseul was not looked down on.

A young man named Jung-Soo, part of a well-off family, was brought to the village, as an attempt to get him "out of the way." His father may, or may not, be a Communist spy from the North. In the beginning, the relationship between Iseul and Jung-Soo is pretty rocky.

A few years later, war returns to Korea. Starvation is a constant danger, the local forest around The Wasteland is pretty much cleaned out of any edible fruits and vegetables. All able-bodied men, including Jung-Soo, are conscripted into the South Korean Army. Plain white writing paper has become almost impossible to get, so Iseul leads the women of The Wasteland, and the neighboring villages, to make paper from the bark of the local trees. They are quite successful, making thousands of sheets of paper. The women include blank sheets of paper with letters to their husbands, intending that they give them to other soldiers.

The war is not going well for the South, including the Americans. Jung-Soo learns that the North, including the Chinese, intend to push the South between two mountain ranges. At the point of the mountain ranges is Yeoju. Some of the battle will reach The Wasteland. Jung-Soo is convinced that he has to get back to the village and warn the women. They already know; some join the exodus of refugees heading south, while others want to stay and fight. The armies may be coming because of a rumored huge storehouse of rice. Does war come to The Wasteland again? Do Iseul and Jung-Soo get back together/

This is a first-rate piece of writing. It may take some effort on the part of the reader; give it a chance. It is the sort of novel that could take place anywhere in the world, and during any war. Yes, it is very much worth reading.

[Jay Odd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forgotten Reflections is a gripping coming of age story set among war and romance. The novel was written by Young-Im Lee.

This is a fascinating book and I do not usually dip into the two latter categories but I love intriguing coming of age tales and the backdrop of South Korea also appealed to me. The book was so good that I couldn’t put it down and it certainly exceeded my expectations.

This is a really interesting book with a fantastic and thrilling original story. It is also quite easy to follow, despite flitting between the past and present.

The fascinating story is set in South Korea during The Korean War. The character I like best is Iseul, an arrogant and feisty young woman.

I am not sure that the story benefitted by being told by her granddaughter in the present day, but it still worked as a strategy. The evocative plot focuses on the relationship between Iseul and her foe-turned-friend, Jung-Soo.

Their heart-warming friendship is sweet and believable. The characters are very well drawn and readers can identify with them easily.

There was also an unexpected twist to the story, but of course I won't mention that here! What I liked best was the way that the author personalised the sensitive experience of living through war, reminding us that it's different for everyone.

It will change the way you see the various roles of people in a war-torn country, whether they're fighting on the battlefield or striving to keep a small community alive.

My only reservation about this book is that, unfortunately, it needs some serious proof-reading, but I would not let that put you off giving it a try. (Note: I noticed that the cover shown on Amazon differs slightly to my copy, so perhaps the book has been edited and re-released.)

Forgotten Reflections is a powerful first novel by Young-Im Lee and it’s a highly entertaining read. I definitely recommend that you add this memorable book to your collection. Don’t miss it - this is well-worth reading.

https://examiningtheodd.com/2017/10/2...

[E.P. · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Forgotten Reflections" tells two stories: one of feisty village girl Iseul, trying to survive during the Korean War, and the other of her granddaughter Jia, who goes on a quest to find out about her dying grandmother's past instead of studying for her end-of-school exams like the dutiful, obedient girl her mother wants her to be. The result is an epic story of love, family, tragedy, and survival against the backdrop of a Korea that was in danger of tearing itself apart.

The book begins and ends with Jia, and she appears occasionally in the middle, but the bulk of the book is devoted to Iseul and the young man in love with her, who is fighting for the South even though his family is allied with the North. There are multiple points of view and flashbacks and flashforwards, although it is generally clear what is happening. Readers should be aware, however, that the book is quite long and the plot complex, so don't pick this up thinking it will be a quick read: this is a commitment. But for those interested in Korea and Korean writing, it is worthwhile, with a different perspective on the war than what appears in most American books, and an immersive, multigenerational look at the life of a Korean family. In what might be the most interesting section of the book, the author ends with some reflections on her own personal experiences, some of which went into the story and on the nature of contemporary Korean culture and whether or not the American influence on it has been a good thing. All in all, a book that readers interested in Korean fiction, or who enjoyed Min Jin Lee's "Pachinko," may very well want to check out.

My thanks to the author for providing a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Mandy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Korea and the Forgotten War. It’s 1945 when the book opens and the Japanese, who have colonised Korea since 1910, have just been driven out. Korea is finally independent. But within 5 years the country is plunged into a brutal civil war, the consequences of which we still live with today. There are two strands to the novel, one concerning a village girl Iseul and her struggles throughout that war, and her granddaughter Jia who becomes invested in finding out more about her grandmother whilst facing her own struggles in the competitive South Korea of today. This is not an easy read. It jumps about in time and space, and with its multiple characters and viewpoints, need careful reading. Overall it has much to commend it, particularly from an historical and cultural aspect, and there is a lot the reader will learn. However, I did not find it an engaging read as I found I could not relate to either Iseul or Jia, although I appreciated finding out about their lives. Specific in its time and place, the themes of love, loss, family, betrayal and the cost of war are of course timeless and I note that many readers have enjoyed it more than I did. I also have to quibble with the language. I assume that English is not the author’s first language, which makes it remarkable that she can write such an accomplished novel. However I found the mistakes in grammar, vocabulary and idiom jarring, and only wish there had been a more vigilant editor. Worth reading, yes, although I heaved a sigh of relief when I finished.

[Southern Today Gone Tomorrow · Rating 2 out of 5]

This novel is written by Young-Im Lee, and follows an 18 year old girl in Seoul, South Korea, and her dying grandmother. This book revolves around the teen seeing her life beginning and comparing it to her grandmother, a woman who survived the Korean War (which still goes on today) to go on and start her own company. Who never forgot the war. And a girl who fears that, while her parents generation didn't fight, hers may be brought into a war as well.

These are just thoughts because this book didn't grab me. The idea is interesting, I honestly - as an American educated in a southern educational system - know very little about the Korean War. I think we maybe spent all of a day on it. I know that is does still continue. I know that many Americans fought there. I know I have seen a number of movies on the topic. But, I can't tell you what started the war. I can't tell you how many died or when America got involved. I can't even tell you if they wanted America there. (I know, I know, but some wars America was wanted.)

What kept me from diving into this book is just the writing style. It feels like I am reading a translation. Honestly, I am confused as to who is narrating at times.

If you are interested in history, if you are interested in the Korean people, this novel could be for you. The writing style just wasn't for me. I think the topic is interesting and thought provoking, but I just can't get through this.

[Giorgiana · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, I wish to thank Young- Im Lee for sending me her book. I had a great time reading it. It seems that lately, all the book I had the chance to read are just great books. And Forgotten Reflections isn’t an exception.

What I loved the most at this book is the way how it is written. Is written as a story told by a young girl, called Jia. It feels like she was talking with me, the reader; like we were two friends talking about our lives.

And the language is so simple. No hard or complicated words, light and easy to understand sentences. But, to be honest, I had troubles with names. For me, Korean names are quite hard to remember, but in the end, I found my way to know each character.

It is an interesting historical thriller set during the Korean War. I’ve learned so many about the Korean War and people’s faith. I felt so intrigued by it that I made a search on Google to learn more.

I loved how she continued to switch between past and present and between people. She did a splendid job with describing the environment and each character.

Also, the book gives so many emotions. I worried about Jung-Soo an Iseul, hoping that someday they will meet again. I loved how strong Iseul is.

If you haven’t read it yet, this is the right time to do it. You won’t regret it!

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions, however, are my own.

Title: Forgotten Reflections

Author: Young-Im Lee

Setting: Korea 1950s

I must admit that I haven’t read much modern Asian fiction, and even less Asian historical fiction, so when I was offered this book, I was excited to read it. When I got a look at how long it was, I admit to second thoughts. I’m glad I stuck with it because it was a great read.

This is two stories in one, the story of Iseul as a girl, and the one of her as a grandmother now suffering from Alzheimer’s and living in assisted care. Her granddaughter starts digging into her grandma’s past when they move her into the care facility. Meanwhile, Iseul herself is remembering her past.

Iseul grew up in a small village in Korea. She barely remembers the Japanese soldiers who roared through her town, killing her mother and many of the villagers. Now Iseul is old enough to help her father with his paper-making business. She attracts the notice of Jung-Soo, son of the local bigwig, and that relationship will shape the rest of her life. She and Jung-Soo become aware that the village has a secret Communist cell and soon war breaks out.

I won’t spoil the rest of the book, but I can say that their paths part, but neither can forget the other one. When they are reunited, everything has changed. Several times with this book, I thought it was so long I was never going to finish, but I just couldn’t give up on it.

[Lorna Holland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review now up on the blog: https://www.thewritinggreyhound.co.uk...

Set across many years and spanning decades between past and present, Forgotten Reflections: A War Story is a sweeping tale of love, loss, and determination.

The majority of the novel is set during the Korean War in the early 1950s. Told from multiple perspectives, it shares the stories of soldiers on the front lines and their loved ones anxiously waiting for news back at home.

A remarkable woman named Iseul is the common thread between past and present; peace and war. Just a young woman when the war begins, Iseul soon finds herself pushed to the very limit as her loved ones, livelihood, and even her village are threatened by the ongoing conflict.

In the present-day portions of the story, Iseul is a frail elderly lady, confined to a hospice and slowly losing her precious memories. After a chance discovery, her young granddaughter decides to investigate Iseul's life, loves, and family ties. It is a journey that will lead to many surprises, yet ultimately, one that will define generations of their family.

Above all else, this is a story of hope. These selfless, courageous people had their loved ones and livelihoods taken away from them, yet they still kept on going in hope of a brighter future. From the incredible bravery of Iseul and the villagers to the American soldiers - as the author puts it, fighting in a war not to save their country or their families, but because it is the right thing to do. It is an important, meaningful story.

Forgotten Reflections is a poignant and moving novel - well worth a read.

[Lilith Day · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a small village in South Korea, Iseul calls home. She is not wealthy and does not have much to offer, but she is happy. She works along her father a woodcarver and befriends a wealthy person. Slowly war comes to and tears the whole village apart.

This is a story of Iseul and how she manages to turn war into success. She does what she can to keep her village together and herself. She contributes to the war effort despite starvation and lack of supplies.

Pro:
Iseul is an interesting character. She is strong-willed and always looks for the positive.
The war adds some action to this book.
There is a lot of adventure and action-packed scenes.

Cons:
This is a true story. From time to time there are dry spots, but since it is true, I guess that is what comes along with non-fction.
The book was very long. It took me much longer to read than the other books I have reviewed.

Overall I felt this to be wonderful book. I felt Iseul to be a great character. She went through a lot. The war and all tore her and her family appart but she managed to get back up and succeed. It was a worthwhile read.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine and were in no way influenced by outside sources. I am a professional blogger at LittleLadyPlays

[Jeffrey Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s 1945 and for Korea, after over thirty-five years of Japanese occupation, the country is filled with much hope and promise for the future. However, it is also a time of uncertainty and fear with two ideologies vying for the hearts of minds of its citizens.

This is the backdrop for Lee Young-im’s moving and evocative historical novel, Forgotten Reflections, A War Story. The story which follows the lives of three individuals amidst this turbulent time from the days following the end of the World War II through the Korean War, sheds insights into this period and as the author reminds us, still resonates today. To be sure, the novel is just as much about that period as it is about the “unfinished’ business on the Korean peninsula—a war that ended without a peace treaty and a country still divided.

The story jumps back and forth from the present to the past, which is not always an easy task for writers, but Lee does a good job of holding the story together. The story is rich with symbolism (pay attention to the use of “paper”) and emotion. One thing is for certain, this period of history comes to life with Lee’s unique voice and storytelling prowess.

This is a powerful debut novel from a rising star in Korean literature.

Jeffrey Miller,
Bureau 39

[John Collings · Rating 4 out of 5]

A young lady on the brink of adulthood finds a note in her grandmother's guitar that sends her on a quest to discover the past of her family and heritage. What she discovers tells a story of love, friendship and sacrifice during the Korean War in a small village outside of Seoul, Yeojo. Young-Im Lee does a great job of describing the issues that face modern Koreans while blending in the history of where they have come from and why the society has been built the way it is today. The characters are very dynamic and easy to feel comfortable with even though the names may cause some problems for people who are reading this from a western part of the world. The adventure that is built to up to the final climax is exciting and makes you want to read more, but the ending is set up in a way that seems to pull the heartstrings in a contrived way instead of a natural progression that makes the reader think that there would not be any other way to end the story. For the most part, it is an enjoyable book that is fun to read, and gives you a perspective of the Korean War that is not usually seen from an American viewpoint.

[R.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from the author for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.

Iseul’s and Jung-Soo’s story is a heart-wrenching one but, one worth reading. In Forgotten Reflections, we travel to the rice capital in South Korea during the time of the Forgotten War.

I love the history content in this story as well as the characters who bring it to life. Forgotten Reflections is written in my favorite style of historical fiction, in which the main story unfolds at the same rate that a character in our time is discovering the history, therefore we have two stories in one book.

It’s a slower paced novel for sure, and may seem to drag on for some readers, but it is filled with many interesting facts that help the story along. It’s relatively clean, with the occasional curse words and the violence that comes with war is only mildly graphic.

Overall, I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

This review was originally published on Literature Approved (http://literatureapproved.wordpress.com).

[Lillie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very long literary novel about events that took place in South Korea during the Korean War. It was very well-written, but every once in a while a wrong word or the wrong tense of a verb would be used. The Korean names were difficult for me as I was unfamiliar with them, but the characters were interesting and well-developed. The plot was complex and at some points confusing to me. The story jumped back and forth between the present day and the past. The present was in the point of view of a young woman in school facing the impending death of her grandmother with Alzheimer's, and the past was in various points of view--the girl's grandmother and her grandmother's associates. The story tugged at my emotions and taught me about a different culture and historical time period.

I received a copy of the book from the author, but I voluntarily wrote the review, which expresses my honest opinion.

[Danielle Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forgotten Reflections: A War Story by Young-Im Lee is an interesting novel. One that swept me deep into the war story. A foreign country, South Korea is at war. Both the communists and democrats want to take it over....but their war brings the one village to starvation. Hunger, loss, and desperation can be seen and felt with every page.

A young woman is determined despite the war and its effects on her people. Soon, she brings them hope. Hope soon blossoms into her village. Letters to the soldiers helps them carry forth int the war. Families torn between choices. Love and hope still prevail...

I enjoyed reading this tale. Forgotten Reflections is an engaging story. The plot rushes me through the pages. The characters and their dilemmas entice me further into their world. A culture readers can't miss. Young-Im Lee has presented a heartfelt novel. One that won't be forgotten by its readers...including myself. Overall, I recommend it to readers worldwide.

[Dekota Lancaster · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favorite quote from this book was on page 482, "We are but waves that wash up on shore for a brief moment until we are called back to make way for new waves."

The storyline was very intriguing and I loved how vivid the imagery was throughout the different characters that had been introduced.

My biggest problem was with the various minuscule typos that were scattered throughout the story. It would have been beneficial to have had several people proofread the book.

Nonetheless, I was very impressed by the author, Young-Im Lee, who was able to write such an intricate and well-detailed story in 2 years in a language that does not resemble her native tongue. That is amazing.

[Dale · Rating 3 out of 5]

A war story, a love story, a people story that has a deeper & broader context than Korea

Weaving a clever and engaging narrative past and present connected via well-drawn characters. The sort of characters, who become real as the story unfolds, creating an attachment and suspense waiting for but not really looking forward to the outcome knowing that will mean the end of the book, sadly.

[Susan Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have received this e-arc in return for my honest review.

I especially liked the author's note at the end. A true friendship in a war torn era. Love lost, love found and family bonds. Definitely more noteworthy than those Korean cringe-worthy soaps.

You can read my full review here:
http://www.sholee.net/2017/09/mpov-fo...

[Becca McCulloch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful and well-told story of Korea during the "forgotten war." Rich in history and cultural detail with lyrical prose that'll leave you breathless and hurting. A must-read for lovers of literary form.

[J.D. DeHart · Rating 5 out of 5]

The writing has a mythical quality at times, and the author focuses on family as the center of the book. A beautifully written text with themes that are larger than one culture.

I would recommend this book for anyone searching for a thoughtful and literary reading experience.

[Madeline · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF @ 9%. I was so excited to read this because of the subject matter and positive reviews. However, I felt that the writing was rather juvenile and didn't create a clear sense of what was occurring. The story has potential, but more editing is needed.

[Sarah G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really engaging book that draws you in right from the start. Past and present blend together effortlessly weaving a story that has many twists and turns along the way keeping you hooked to find out more about what happened to everyone connected to Iseul.

A story in three parts with present day mixed in to push the narrative forward as Iseul’s granddaughter tries to uncover more about her grandmothers past while she still can with her being close to the end. A way to explore more with what she sacrificed to make a better life for her future children.

Back in the past war is knocking at their doors and while the men were away fighting the women, children, and those that couldn’t fight were left behind. It was at this point that Iseul found the courage to seek a different path than what was in front of her with a way to help - that being with the making of paper. Something that the men at war were in need of to be able to write letters home and still feel connected to others while being so far away. It is with this paper and the journey others take that make you feel connected to the people that Iseul cares about most and how it might be a way to bring them back together.

Will the past be brought back to the present in time for Iseul to remember all that transpired before she says her final goodbye? A way to make peace with the past before moving on. You are willing for a happy ending of sorts for the past memories as you know the outcome of what the present holds. Holding out hope right up until it gets taken away. A content ending of the past seems to be the way leading back into the present.

Good story telling of an interesting and harrowing time of history. Fascinating characters that draw you into the chaos that surrounds them and what could become of them and their home. Friends bound together no matter the distance or perils that they will face.

Who knew paper and rice would be key to the war and those willing to do whatever to protect and also try and take it. A forgotten war fought to get a better today of sorts. Divides will always hold people and places apart no matter the time or place in history or the future. You just have to hope the people of tomorrow do better than those of the past.

I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review.