Somehow, We'll Survive: Life in Japan During World War II Through The Eyes Of A Young Caucasian Boy

On December 7, 1941, Japan attacks Pearl Harbor, drawing the United States into World War II. Living in Japan is a small group of foreigners who have established residency many years earlier. Most of them have businesses that involve trade--import-export, retail stores and wholesale establishments. Their children go to English-language Christian missionary schools taught by American, British, Canadian and other nationalities who all suddenly become enemy aliens most of whom are repatriated or interned. But citizens of allied and neutral nations as well as those who are stateless continue their normal way of life. Like other stateless residents, the Sidlines are permitted to remain in Japan. As the war progresses, devastating air raids leave most of the cities uninhabitable. Life becomes more difficult and the population, both native and foreign, starts feeling the effects of deprivation. The Sidlines experience harrowing events that almost cost them their lives. After the war ends, earning a living becomes a formidable task. In this memoir, George Sidline, who was seven years old in 1941, describes what life was like for his family living in Kobe, including their friendship with American POWs at Marks House, adjacent to the Sidline home. George Sidline was persuaded to write this book by many people who were unaware that foreigners lived in Japan during the war. The book is well illustrated with photos and is a must-read for anyone interested in this little known aspect of the periphery of war in the Pacific.