If you have followed along for the last few months, you know I’m writing a book for a client about her father’s life and experience as a Japanese POW. I’m now writing the chapters about his captivity experience as he moved from camps to hell ships to camps. It’s emotionally difficult research and writing.
Two resources I’m using to aid in the context of his story are the books “Prisoners of the Japanese” by Gavan Daws and “Captive Fathers, Captive Children” by Terry Smyth. “Prisoners” is an almost 500-page book about the experiences of Japanese POWs. It is somewhat graphic and emotional to read.
“Captive Fathers, Captive Children” is more a scholarly study of the effects of the POW experience on the veteran and his descendants. Think generational or inherited trauma.
The things our family refused to talk about, kept secret, whispered about, do impact us on so many levels and in so many ways. As adults we often make decisions based on the pain or trauma experienced as a child. This book helps children of POWs and ancestral healers like me, heal the past.
I highly recommend both of these books if you are researching your family’s Japanese POW and considering how you were impacted by it, even if you are a grandchild.
Are You Ready To Start Your Book Project
Are you ready to write your book or have one written? Email me at info@wwiirwc.com to set up a free consult to discuss your project. I have space for a couple of new clients as I prepare to launch other client books.
© 2025 WWII Research & Writing Center
Leave a Reply