The story was simple and it was an easy and somewhat captivating read. Though I felt the author could have been a little more emotional, I liked the novel and am glad to have read it. I feel the characters were a little under-developed and the story line jumped around many of times, leaving out things I thought would have increased the connection between reader and character.

How could such a young child have such complex thoughts? That's what I was thinking the whole time I was reading it. If author was going to incorporate historical information, maybe he should not have used the first-person narrative.

I collect books about Korean, and have read many novels, poems and non-fiction works, but Lost Names is certainly one of the best. Small details and major characters both help to build an accurate, emotional depiction of Koreans and the struggle to live during the brutal Japanese occupation of World War II. I read this book in one sitting, mailed it to one of my sisters, and have bought a copy for another sister. Some passages are humorous, and others are painfully sad...but the author infuses the entire work with hope and forgiveness. The main character's father is a memorable study of dignity, wisdom and strength. My 13 year old son has read this book four times! It is slightly mature for a young reader, but if you or your child have any interest in Korea, you'll love it. A must-read for any Korean-Americans wanting to understand the deprivation, tenacity and social conditions forced upon their parents or grandparents, who survived the harsh conditions of life in Korea during WWII.