What do you think?
Rate this book
Perils and Pearls: In World War II, a Family's Story of Survival and Freedom from Japanese Jungle Prison Camps
In World War II much of Asia fell under Japanese control after the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
All non-Asians were imprisoned in concentration camps until August of 1945, the end of the war in the Pacific.
This is the story of a Dutch family, resident in the Dutch East Indies, that fell victim to the Japanese occupation and was interned in jungle camps throughout the war. It tells the journey from riches to rags, from fear and suffering, to the joy of freedom and recovery.
All non-Asians were imprisoned in concentration camps until August of 1945, the end of the war in the Pacific.
This is the story of a Dutch family, resident in the Dutch East Indies, that fell victim to the Japanese occupation and was interned in jungle camps throughout the war. It tells the journey from riches to rags, from fear and suffering, to the joy of freedom and recovery.
- GenresNonfictionBiography
190 pages, Paperback
Published September 18, 2019
About the author
Hulda Bachman-Neeb
1 book3 followersHulda Bachman–Neeb was born in Indonesia of colonial Dutch parentage two years before the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941. Because much of Asia fell under Japanese control, all non-Asians were imprisoned in concentration camps until August of 1945, the end of the war in the Pacific.
As a member of the Dutch Foreign Service in her adult life, Hulda held assignments in twenty-five countries over a period of thirty-six years, retiring in 1996.
She is married to an American, James Bachman, a historian and author, and has dual citizenship.
Hulda and her husband live in Estes Park, Colorado.
As a member of the Dutch Foreign Service in her adult life, Hulda held assignments in twenty-five countries over a period of thirty-six years, retiring in 1996.
She is married to an American, James Bachman, a historian and author, and has dual citizenship.
Hulda and her husband live in Estes Park, Colorado.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 18, 2020
I appreciate Hulda's mother sharing her memories of their time in the prison camps. It is people who have lived and were fortunate to survive horrific ordeals like this that are willing to share their stories that we can read about them. Hopefully, readers come away from these types of books with more appreciation for their freedom and learn from history.
Thus the reason I picked up this book to read about Hulda and her family's survival in the prison camps. This book does read like a memoir. While, I did like learning about Hulda's family past, I did feel like it was a bit too long with the history. It could have been shortened up a few chapters. I did not really get what the story about her father's time sailing had to do with the overall story.
The "meat" of the story and the focal point of this book did not start until the halfway point. Which I found intriguing. I can't imagine having to live in a prison camp like Hulda and her family did. Thus when you think of what people are having to do with sheltering in place at home currently; it is not even close to what people in prison camps had to endure. I did find this book to be a quick read.
Thus the reason I picked up this book to read about Hulda and her family's survival in the prison camps. This book does read like a memoir. While, I did like learning about Hulda's family past, I did feel like it was a bit too long with the history. It could have been shortened up a few chapters. I did not really get what the story about her father's time sailing had to do with the overall story.
The "meat" of the story and the focal point of this book did not start until the halfway point. Which I found intriguing. I can't imagine having to live in a prison camp like Hulda and her family did. Thus when you think of what people are having to do with sheltering in place at home currently; it is not even close to what people in prison camps had to endure. I did find this book to be a quick read.
February 14, 2020
This book provides a fresh insight on the history of the Indonesian archipelago during World War 2.
The first part talks about the author's family. It was interesting to see how some of the Dutch, born and raised in Indonesia, also consider Indonesia to be their home and have difficulty adjusting to life at the Netherlands. I never considered this point of view before. Being an Indonesian living abroad, I sympathize with how they felt. No matter how much better the foreign country is, it is still foreign and you always long to go home.
The second part tells the story of Dutch civilian experience during WW2. History lesson at school only taught us the Indonesian struggle for independence and fails to mention many other events happening elsewhere. It is shocking to know that meanwhile, a lot of people, including the Dutch, suffered terribly under the Japanese occupation.
Overall this is a very well written book which leaves me with a desire to dig deeper into my own country's history.
The first part talks about the author's family. It was interesting to see how some of the Dutch, born and raised in Indonesia, also consider Indonesia to be their home and have difficulty adjusting to life at the Netherlands. I never considered this point of view before. Being an Indonesian living abroad, I sympathize with how they felt. No matter how much better the foreign country is, it is still foreign and you always long to go home.
The second part tells the story of Dutch civilian experience during WW2. History lesson at school only taught us the Indonesian struggle for independence and fails to mention many other events happening elsewhere. It is shocking to know that meanwhile, a lot of people, including the Dutch, suffered terribly under the Japanese occupation.
Overall this is a very well written book which leaves me with a desire to dig deeper into my own country's history.
April 23, 2020
As an author who has interviewed people for over a decade on their life journey, I have come to realize how important these personal stories are. Perils and Pearls discusses an event in history that I had heard nothing about - the Japanese imprisonment of Dutch nationals living in Indonesia in the 1940's. Why, I wonder, was this not a part of the history I learned growing up?
Perils and Pearls starts by exploring a bit of Dutch history, focused largely on the author's ancestors. She also covers how the Dutch came to be in Indonesia and about the deep love those born and raised there had for this country. As she and her brother were very small children when the Japanese arrived in the town they were staying in, much of this story was built on her mother's reminiscences as well as supporting research. How they lived in these camps, the lack of food, the almost non-existent medical help, the dysentery, the hunger - it's seems unbelievable so many survived. It's also hard to imagine one human being could do this to another. Yet being in a camp for women and children meant they had it much better than others. The camps for men, especially the ones holding captured soldiers, were known to offer brutality on a much higher scale.
I was surprised as I began to find approximately the first 30 pages focused on the history of the Dutch, especially the author's ancestors. I'm not quite sure how much of it was actually relevant to introducing the story she wanted to share. Also, as the story is written more from the author's mother's memories rather than her personal ones, it has a more journalistic style to the story telling. That said, I am glad I read this book. It's the first account of this moment in history I've run across. And as I said before, I think it's extremely important that individuals step forward and share their stories so these times are not forgotten. There are lessons to be learned.
Perils and Pearls starts by exploring a bit of Dutch history, focused largely on the author's ancestors. She also covers how the Dutch came to be in Indonesia and about the deep love those born and raised there had for this country. As she and her brother were very small children when the Japanese arrived in the town they were staying in, much of this story was built on her mother's reminiscences as well as supporting research. How they lived in these camps, the lack of food, the almost non-existent medical help, the dysentery, the hunger - it's seems unbelievable so many survived. It's also hard to imagine one human being could do this to another. Yet being in a camp for women and children meant they had it much better than others. The camps for men, especially the ones holding captured soldiers, were known to offer brutality on a much higher scale.
I was surprised as I began to find approximately the first 30 pages focused on the history of the Dutch, especially the author's ancestors. I'm not quite sure how much of it was actually relevant to introducing the story she wanted to share. Also, as the story is written more from the author's mother's memories rather than her personal ones, it has a more journalistic style to the story telling. That said, I am glad I read this book. It's the first account of this moment in history I've run across. And as I said before, I think it's extremely important that individuals step forward and share their stories so these times are not forgotten. There are lessons to be learned.
April 20, 2020
I loved that Perils and Pearls provides a view of a family’s experiences during World War II from different setting that I usually find. I liked that this covered Indonesia and the Netherlands throughout the book.
The story begins with the patriarchal line, dating back to the 1600s. I struggled with this portion of the story a bit. I had a hard time keeping all the family members straight, and I’m unsure if this much detail was truly necessary to the overall story. It was interesting to see how Bachman-Neeb’s family moves between Indonesia and the Netherlands though. I was intrigued by all the historical information that I didn’t know much about. I felt like there was some good information that provided detail that helped understand the rest of her story.
Bachman-Neeb’s family find themselves in Indonesia when the Japanese invade. Hulda’s father was able to escape Indonesia and went to Australia, however, Hulda, her mother, and her brother were all placed into a concentration camp. This portion of the story was deeply moving. I cannot imagine the horrors that this family and so many others endured. Hulda provides excellent insight into her own mother’s fears regarding the children’s nutrition, growth, and education while imprisoned.
Hulda’s account of her family’s experience during World War II provides a new view of the horrors that people endured during the Japanese occupation. I felt that her account of their time in the concentration camp was well-written and I enjoyed reading it. I feel that I continue to find new information about how far-reaching this war was, and I appreciate authors like Hulda Bachman-Neeb for taking the time to write about their emotional experience so that others may hear their story.
To Read or Not To Read:
I would recommend Perils and Pearls to readers that enjoy World War II memoirs, especially ones that are offering a view from a non-German setting.
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
My full review of this book will post to my blog on 4/21/20. All of my reviews can be found at https://shejustlovesbooks.com/all-boo...
The story begins with the patriarchal line, dating back to the 1600s. I struggled with this portion of the story a bit. I had a hard time keeping all the family members straight, and I’m unsure if this much detail was truly necessary to the overall story. It was interesting to see how Bachman-Neeb’s family moves between Indonesia and the Netherlands though. I was intrigued by all the historical information that I didn’t know much about. I felt like there was some good information that provided detail that helped understand the rest of her story.
Bachman-Neeb’s family find themselves in Indonesia when the Japanese invade. Hulda’s father was able to escape Indonesia and went to Australia, however, Hulda, her mother, and her brother were all placed into a concentration camp. This portion of the story was deeply moving. I cannot imagine the horrors that this family and so many others endured. Hulda provides excellent insight into her own mother’s fears regarding the children’s nutrition, growth, and education while imprisoned.
Hulda’s account of her family’s experience during World War II provides a new view of the horrors that people endured during the Japanese occupation. I felt that her account of their time in the concentration camp was well-written and I enjoyed reading it. I feel that I continue to find new information about how far-reaching this war was, and I appreciate authors like Hulda Bachman-Neeb for taking the time to write about their emotional experience so that others may hear their story.
To Read or Not To Read:
I would recommend Perils and Pearls to readers that enjoy World War II memoirs, especially ones that are offering a view from a non-German setting.
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
My full review of this book will post to my blog on 4/21/20. All of my reviews can be found at https://shejustlovesbooks.com/all-boo...
April 13, 2020
I love reading historical novels, documentaries and biographies. They give a intimate look at a period of time, offering new insight and encourages you to take a deeper look at a time period, to research more and understand the people, lives and cultures.
This book does just that, I never knew about the Dutch that lived in Indonesia and the route to Indonesia Independence. This was never discussed at school and I don’t think I have ever seen this in media accounts or in any of the books that I have read that covered this time period. Perils and Pearls gave an interesting account of the Dutch living in Indonesia before the war broke and during, the road to Indonesia’s independence and how this intersected with World War II.
In her book, we learn the history of her family who lived both in Indonesia and the Netherlands. Many times, their family members came back to the Netherlands but somehow always found their way back to Indonesia, which is where they called home. This is where Hulda found herself when the Japanese invaded Indonesia.
We dive into the Japanese invasion of Indonesia and learn about what happened to those living there that were imprisoned in civilian concentration camps. Hulda, her Mother and brother were imprisoned in one of these camps, while her Father (a soldier) escaped to Australia on a mission. We get an intimate look at the fears, horrors and moments of hope for her family. Her Mother’s fears of how this would affect their growth, watching her child become sick and suffer and not being able to stop this. The children’s general curiosity that tended to get them in trouble. The strength of these civilians is incredible – faced with the unthinkable, they stuck together and did their best to survive. They had no idea of what happened to family members outside of the camp, how they would ever reach them again but they still fought on, living and surviving.
This is well written look at events that are important in our history and as we move forward a lesson that we can all learn from to ensure this never happens again. It is a story of survival at all costs, hope for the future and healing. She writes in an unique manner, telling the story how it happened but does not insert hate or blame. This is an excellent book for young adults and adults to read, to understand the mistakes of the past, how we can ensure it never happens again and to appreciate the sacrifices those who came before us gave. A definite must read, I could not put this one down.
This book does just that, I never knew about the Dutch that lived in Indonesia and the route to Indonesia Independence. This was never discussed at school and I don’t think I have ever seen this in media accounts or in any of the books that I have read that covered this time period. Perils and Pearls gave an interesting account of the Dutch living in Indonesia before the war broke and during, the road to Indonesia’s independence and how this intersected with World War II.
In her book, we learn the history of her family who lived both in Indonesia and the Netherlands. Many times, their family members came back to the Netherlands but somehow always found their way back to Indonesia, which is where they called home. This is where Hulda found herself when the Japanese invaded Indonesia.
We dive into the Japanese invasion of Indonesia and learn about what happened to those living there that were imprisoned in civilian concentration camps. Hulda, her Mother and brother were imprisoned in one of these camps, while her Father (a soldier) escaped to Australia on a mission. We get an intimate look at the fears, horrors and moments of hope for her family. Her Mother’s fears of how this would affect their growth, watching her child become sick and suffer and not being able to stop this. The children’s general curiosity that tended to get them in trouble. The strength of these civilians is incredible – faced with the unthinkable, they stuck together and did their best to survive. They had no idea of what happened to family members outside of the camp, how they would ever reach them again but they still fought on, living and surviving.
This is well written look at events that are important in our history and as we move forward a lesson that we can all learn from to ensure this never happens again. It is a story of survival at all costs, hope for the future and healing. She writes in an unique manner, telling the story how it happened but does not insert hate or blame. This is an excellent book for young adults and adults to read, to understand the mistakes of the past, how we can ensure it never happens again and to appreciate the sacrifices those who came before us gave. A definite must read, I could not put this one down.
April 20, 2020
This is a harrowing account of a family from Holland who was caught up in and experienced some of the devastation of World War ll.
I discovered the Japanese trained their Samurai soldiers from their youth, in methods of torture as part of their training. Several were named. It is incredible to me that individuals can be so inhumane to create such cruel methods of causing pain in others.
This story is very well written. I didn't put the book down until I was finished! Although it offers a clear picture of some of what they had to endure, it doesn't go into morbid detail. The reader is left the occasion to "fill in the gaps".
In the Introduction, the author states a warning of not taking freedom for granted and to do all one can to preserve it. Many in the world today are striving to overcome democracy and "paints" Socialism and Communism as desirable. World Wars from the past should be enough to cause all to realize they are not desirable nor do they do the governing euphoria they claim to. If it were so, so many wouldn't be fleeing to America and enraged because it cannot let all others in.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure to offer a positive review. This is my honest review.
I discovered the Japanese trained their Samurai soldiers from their youth, in methods of torture as part of their training. Several were named. It is incredible to me that individuals can be so inhumane to create such cruel methods of causing pain in others.
This story is very well written. I didn't put the book down until I was finished! Although it offers a clear picture of some of what they had to endure, it doesn't go into morbid detail. The reader is left the occasion to "fill in the gaps".
In the Introduction, the author states a warning of not taking freedom for granted and to do all one can to preserve it. Many in the world today are striving to overcome democracy and "paints" Socialism and Communism as desirable. World Wars from the past should be enough to cause all to realize they are not desirable nor do they do the governing euphoria they claim to. If it were so, so many wouldn't be fleeing to America and enraged because it cannot let all others in.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure to offer a positive review. This is my honest review.
April 17, 2020
My Thoughts On This Book
My Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
I enjoy reading about history so I was excited to be able to read and review this book. This is the first hand story of Huldah and her family. In the beginning we learn more about her family, and then more grueling accounts of what happened to the family after 1942 when Japan invaded the Dutch Indies. So much of Huldah’s story is very difficult to read, it gives more insite to what actually happend. I could hardly imagine Hulda, her mom and brother spending time in prison camps and the deadly conditions they were forced to face.
I read so many fiction books that I had to keep reminding myself that this was a true story. A story this precious lady had to face. Has to remember every day. I appreciate so much that Hulda has told her story, difficult as it must have been, for the world to read. I encourage anyone reading the review to get a copy if this book and read it. You will find it amazing, just an many of us have found it.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
My Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
I enjoy reading about history so I was excited to be able to read and review this book. This is the first hand story of Huldah and her family. In the beginning we learn more about her family, and then more grueling accounts of what happened to the family after 1942 when Japan invaded the Dutch Indies. So much of Huldah’s story is very difficult to read, it gives more insite to what actually happend. I could hardly imagine Hulda, her mom and brother spending time in prison camps and the deadly conditions they were forced to face.
I read so many fiction books that I had to keep reminding myself that this was a true story. A story this precious lady had to face. Has to remember every day. I appreciate so much that Hulda has told her story, difficult as it must have been, for the world to read. I encourage anyone reading the review to get a copy if this book and read it. You will find it amazing, just an many of us have found it.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
February 26, 2020
Great family story.
April 22, 2020
I am not usually one to read memoirs or historical books, but something about this one intrigued me.
I have to admit, the first chapter to chapter and a half, I found to be long, drawn out, confusing and boring – it wasn’t so much the book, it is definitely me. I am not a history person; I have never liked history. The first chapter or so was history. It was a background of history, geography, and family lineage.
The middle of Chapter 2 really started focus on the author and her family which is where I started to find everything interesting.
Because history is not my subject of choice, I really had no idea that the Japanese had taken and imprisoned people, much like Hitler did with the Jewish; and during the same time frame. (Which brings up a whole new point of why did we learn so much about the Holocaust in school education, but never learned about the Japanese imprisoning the Caucasians on the West Pacific Rim!?)
I have never read much on the Holocaust, but it is a well known subject that I have learned about. I find it interesting that I never learned about the situation with the non-Japanese people.
The story follows the authors family from the different internment camps that they were sent to; how they were treated; events they went through; as well as how some of her author family were treated (or lack there of).
I cannot imagine going through such a thing and was quickly sucked into the book and what was happening with the family.
This was a good read as well as a great lesson of history. If history is your thing – you will enjoy this read. If history isn’t your expertise, but is of some interest – again, this book is a good read. There was another book referenced within this one on another woman’s experience and I look forward to reading that one as well to learn even more.
I recommend reading the book and learning about the history of this family and those that occupied the West Pacific Rim during this time period.
I have to admit, the first chapter to chapter and a half, I found to be long, drawn out, confusing and boring – it wasn’t so much the book, it is definitely me. I am not a history person; I have never liked history. The first chapter or so was history. It was a background of history, geography, and family lineage.
The middle of Chapter 2 really started focus on the author and her family which is where I started to find everything interesting.
Because history is not my subject of choice, I really had no idea that the Japanese had taken and imprisoned people, much like Hitler did with the Jewish; and during the same time frame. (Which brings up a whole new point of why did we learn so much about the Holocaust in school education, but never learned about the Japanese imprisoning the Caucasians on the West Pacific Rim!?)
I have never read much on the Holocaust, but it is a well known subject that I have learned about. I find it interesting that I never learned about the situation with the non-Japanese people.
The story follows the authors family from the different internment camps that they were sent to; how they were treated; events they went through; as well as how some of her author family were treated (or lack there of).
I cannot imagine going through such a thing and was quickly sucked into the book and what was happening with the family.
This was a good read as well as a great lesson of history. If history is your thing – you will enjoy this read. If history isn’t your expertise, but is of some interest – again, this book is a good read. There was another book referenced within this one on another woman’s experience and I look forward to reading that one as well to learn even more.
I recommend reading the book and learning about the history of this family and those that occupied the West Pacific Rim during this time period.
April 27, 2020
Perils and Pearls Shares a Look at WWII that I Missed. I had no idea that these Japanese prison camps existed. The camps were missing from any history that I learned from the time. Through her family's memories and her childhood memories, she reveals details and images of which so many of us are unaware.
The Author's Writing Style Differs from Many Memoirs. I enjoy memoirs because of the emotions and the memories shared by the authors. Hulda writes from a more educational and informational angle. Readers learn a lot about her family's ancestry and a lot of the realities of life in the Japanese prison camps--but, it is presented in a more structured, dryer manner than most memoirs.
Would I Recommend Perils and Pearls by Hulda Bachman-Neeb? If you enjoy historically based, non-fiction autobiographies--especially those shedding light on places and times that you may never have experienced nor learned--this look into Japanese history and WWII certainly offers readers an eye-opening glimpse into the author's past. There is a lot of facts and history presented in this novel--making it a bit different than the usual, conversational, emotion-driven memoirs. I enjoyed learning about this author's experiences and would certainly recommend it to fans of historical non-fiction and Japanese history.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
The Author's Writing Style Differs from Many Memoirs. I enjoy memoirs because of the emotions and the memories shared by the authors. Hulda writes from a more educational and informational angle. Readers learn a lot about her family's ancestry and a lot of the realities of life in the Japanese prison camps--but, it is presented in a more structured, dryer manner than most memoirs.
Would I Recommend Perils and Pearls by Hulda Bachman-Neeb? If you enjoy historically based, non-fiction autobiographies--especially those shedding light on places and times that you may never have experienced nor learned--this look into Japanese history and WWII certainly offers readers an eye-opening glimpse into the author's past. There is a lot of facts and history presented in this novel--making it a bit different than the usual, conversational, emotion-driven memoirs. I enjoyed learning about this author's experiences and would certainly recommend it to fans of historical non-fiction and Japanese history.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
April 28, 2020
Told from the recollections and journal entries of the author's parents' points of view, along with historical fact, this book will appeal to nonfiction readers who want both the historical as well as personal aspects of war. The beginning has a poetic feel, I believe influenced by the author's father, who seems to have been not only a man of medicine but who appreciated history and, from the language, literature alike. It calls to me like works I have discovered via our own local historical society presentations and library talks. Quotes at the beginning of each chapter, maps and photographs add to that appeal.
The author's grandfather had entrepreneurial leanings, which meant never resting after one endeavor, and her mother had a love of nature and the natural environment, even when it scared her. The strength of this woman was incredible! Her family was her focus and even when tortured or raped, she did what she had to in order to not only survive but push the limits of what her captors allowed. In some cases I felt this earned her a bit more respect but it made me hold my breath to fear retaliation.
Squalid and uncertain conditions during a time of forced encampment did not break their human spirit. I am not saying luck did not play a role, but mindset and determination were, I believe, the deciding factors. Regardless of how a reader interprets the political ramifications of this book, overall it is a fascinating read.
The author's grandfather had entrepreneurial leanings, which meant never resting after one endeavor, and her mother had a love of nature and the natural environment, even when it scared her. The strength of this woman was incredible! Her family was her focus and even when tortured or raped, she did what she had to in order to not only survive but push the limits of what her captors allowed. In some cases I felt this earned her a bit more respect but it made me hold my breath to fear retaliation.
Squalid and uncertain conditions during a time of forced encampment did not break their human spirit. I am not saying luck did not play a role, but mindset and determination were, I believe, the deciding factors. Regardless of how a reader interprets the political ramifications of this book, overall it is a fascinating read.
April 2, 2020
For someone who’s mother’s family parted in WWll, this book gave me a deeper insight and understanding of what was really endured and witnessed during those harsh times.
I wouldn’t even have the guts to sit down and listen to a story, only after, recording and researching it all down to paper. That takes work, and I appreciate the author for sharing her journey.
Other than that, a great historical description of life and loss. It was very interesting to read and you could tell, the author took her time to do it.
Visually stunning and astonishing, I am not disappointed.
I’ve always been interested in a nation’s history and WWll in particular, it’s not surprising on how much I’d praise this book!
All in all, I would highly recommend this book.
I wouldn’t even have the guts to sit down and listen to a story, only after, recording and researching it all down to paper. That takes work, and I appreciate the author for sharing her journey.
Other than that, a great historical description of life and loss. It was very interesting to read and you could tell, the author took her time to do it.
Visually stunning and astonishing, I am not disappointed.
I’ve always been interested in a nation’s history and WWll in particular, it’s not surprising on how much I’d praise this book!
All in all, I would highly recommend this book.
April 8, 2020
Perils and Pearls: In World War II, a Family's Story of Survival and Freedom from Japanese Jungle Prison Camps was a fascinating read to me. Hulda Bachman-Neeb tells of the suffering her family endured during the World War II.
Perils and Pearls: In World War II, a Family's Story of Survival and Freedom from Japanese Jungle Prison Camps told me about something I never heard of before. I learned so much about what happened to people who were not of Asian descent in the Pacific during the second world war. I had no idea that it was not just Germany, but Japan, also, had concentration camps during the war. I could not imagine what the people had gone through during that time. The author did not hold back on how horrendous this time for those in the camps. I am just so shocked at how horrible it was for them all. I found myself grabbing tissues at times at some of the scenes. There is no way to for me to even think of or imagine what it was like for all involved. I admired at the bravery and courage of the determination of the captors to continue to live. I was amazed at their story of hope and survival.
I am giving Perils and Pearls: In World War II, a Family's Story of Survival and Freedom from Japanese Jungle Prison Camps a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading historical events.
Perils and Pearls: In World War II, a Family's Story of Survival and Freedom from Japanese Jungle Prison Camps told me about something I never heard of before. I learned so much about what happened to people who were not of Asian descent in the Pacific during the second world war. I had no idea that it was not just Germany, but Japan, also, had concentration camps during the war. I could not imagine what the people had gone through during that time. The author did not hold back on how horrendous this time for those in the camps. I am just so shocked at how horrible it was for them all. I found myself grabbing tissues at times at some of the scenes. There is no way to for me to even think of or imagine what it was like for all involved. I admired at the bravery and courage of the determination of the captors to continue to live. I was amazed at their story of hope and survival.
I am giving Perils and Pearls: In World War II, a Family's Story of Survival and Freedom from Japanese Jungle Prison Camps a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading historical events.
February 27, 2020
Very interesting and well researched book
I decided to read this book because a lady in my neighborhood was a nurse missionary to China prior to and after the Japanese invaded China. She was also imprisoned in a concentration camp by the Japanese. She passed away when I was very young and I’ve always wanted to know what she must have endued while in captivity. This book is very well written.
I decided to read this book because a lady in my neighborhood was a nurse missionary to China prior to and after the Japanese invaded China. She was also imprisoned in a concentration camp by the Japanese. She passed away when I was very young and I’ve always wanted to know what she must have endued while in captivity. This book is very well written.
February 3, 2020
The other side of the story
There are many books about the Holocaust and Japanese P.O.W.'s, and rightfully so. This is the first one I've seen that talks in detail about what civilian prisoners endured. The author laid the history of not only her family's trials but also a partial history of Indonesia. It was an enlightening book about the strength of family.
There are many books about the Holocaust and Japanese P.O.W.'s, and rightfully so. This is the first one I've seen that talks in detail about what civilian prisoners endured. The author laid the history of not only her family's trials but also a partial history of Indonesia. It was an enlightening book about the strength of family.
February 6, 2020
Interesting tale
Reading this book was a rare step away from my preferred genre of fantasy/science fiction. However, once I started reading I didnt stop until I read the entire book. Very well written account, a subject I was only nominally aware of. Thank you for sharing your story.
Reading this book was a rare step away from my preferred genre of fantasy/science fiction. However, once I started reading I didnt stop until I read the entire book. Very well written account, a subject I was only nominally aware of. Thank you for sharing your story.
February 11, 2020
Honest Account of Dutch Family Saga following capture by the Japanese in WWII.
I enjoyed this story immensely. It covered just enough specifics to be informative without getting bogged down in the details. Told from a child's perspective, it gave true insight to a young family's experiences at the hands of their Japanese captors in the Islands of Indonesia during WWII.
I enjoyed this story immensely. It covered just enough specifics to be informative without getting bogged down in the details. Told from a child's perspective, it gave true insight to a young family's experiences at the hands of their Japanese captors in the Islands of Indonesia during WWII.
March 25, 2020
A historical eye openet
This book was filled with so much historical information before the war thus giving me a new look at the world of the Netherlands. The subsequent story of this families' experience during and after the war is something people should not forget. They were a tight knit family with perseverance and fortitude. We did not have to be regaled with detailed horror to realize the great suffering g these people incurred under their captors. I find it sad Thatcher Empire of Japan has never really apologized forthwith actions to all these innocent prisiners
This book was filled with so much historical information before the war thus giving me a new look at the world of the Netherlands. The subsequent story of this families' experience during and after the war is something people should not forget. They were a tight knit family with perseverance and fortitude. We did not have to be regaled with detailed horror to realize the great suffering g these people incurred under their captors. I find it sad Thatcher Empire of Japan has never really apologized forthwith actions to all these innocent prisiners
February 8, 2020
Amazing story
This a well written book about a fascinating subject. Many of us were unaware of the atrocities revealed in this book. It is a lesson in war and humankind . The strength and courage of all involved was amazing.
This a well written book about a fascinating subject. Many of us were unaware of the atrocities revealed in this book. It is a lesson in war and humankind . The strength and courage of all involved was amazing.
February 10, 2020
Realistic information as to forgotten or little known facts regarding the treatment received by prisoners of the Japanese Military.
February 10, 2020
Powerful story!
Well written story about internment and survival in the Dutch East Indies. Very enlightening information that has been sadly overlooked in history.
Well written story about internment and survival in the Dutch East Indies. Very enlightening information that has been sadly overlooked in history.
February 20, 2020
Insightful
What a history lesson! I did not know the Japanese were that far down the Pacific Rim. What a story, to be caught between the Japanese and the Germans,
What a history lesson! I did not know the Japanese were that far down the Pacific Rim. What a story, to be caught between the Japanese and the Germans,
April 6, 2020
Pacific unknown war
I did know a little from unbroken but did not know this happened.Great story. So sorry about your brothe. rs
I did know a little from unbroken but did not know this happened.Great story. So sorry about your brothe. rs
February 5, 2020
WOW! Amazing book by a Dutch family imprisoned by the Japanese during WW2. I’ve read many books about the war but never knew anything about the Dutch East Indies.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews