Common Sense Media Review
By Amanda Nojadera
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Powerful tale of Japanese American resilience during WWII.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
Set during March 1942 and March 1945, WE ARE NOT FREE follows a tight-knit group of 14 second-generation Japanese American teens whose lives are forever changed when they're forcefully removed from Japantown, San Francisco, during WWII. Although the teens do all they can to stay together, a government questionnaire testing their loyalty to America tears the group apart, with some sent to another incarceration camp while others choose to join the Army or resettle in different parts of the country.
Is It Any Good?
This heart-wrenching tale powerfully depicts Japanese Americans' resilience during World War II, making it a must-read for teens. Choosing to tell the story from 14 perspectives could be overwhelming, but author Traci Chee seamlessly weaves their stories together while giving her chapters distinct voices and styles. Readers will form a deep connection with these well-developed characters and feel their pain, anger, sadness, and regret as well as their pride, hope, and love for one another. A timely reminder at the end of We Are Not Free reminds us that history will repeat itself if we aren't careful.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about historical fiction. What kinds of details show that We Are Not Free is taking place in a different time from our own? What do you like about reading historical novels?
One of the characters says, "It'll happen again, if we're not careful." What can you do to prevent history from repeating itself?
What role did mass media play in making incarceration seem reasonable? How has media changed since World War II? How can you tell whether a media source is reliable?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Historical Fiction
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , History
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : HMH Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : September 1, 2020
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 18
- Number of pages : 400
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : ALA Best and Notable Books
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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