Blue Skies, Troubled Waters - by Martha Walandouw Lohn & Brian Kimmel (Paperback)

About the Book

Caught in WWII Indonesia: American twins' true story of survival & hope. Must-read memoir.

Book Synopsis

Martha Walandouw Lohn and Brian Kimmel's BLUE SKIES, TROUBLED WATERS: An American Twin's WWII Odyssey in Minahasa, Indonesia chronicles the extraordinary journey of twin American girls caught in the chaos of World War II in Japanese-occupied Indonesia. Through the eyes of Martha (nicknamed Ath as a young girl) and her twin sister Kath, we witness the transformation of a peaceful village into a theater of war-where daily survival depended on courage, wit, and the unshakeable bonds of community.

Part historical record, part personal narrative, BLUE SKIES, TROUBLED WATERS succeeds on multiple levels. The memoir balances intimate family drama with major historical events, translating the larger context of World War II through the eyes of a young girl coming of age in extraordinary circumstances. Originally published in 1966, this third edition has been meticulously updated with the help of Lohn's grandson, Brian Kimmel, who contends that those who survive the survivors of atrocities "must learn their stories if their stories, and the lessons embedded within them, are to be remembered and retold."

Lohn's eye for detail brings this historical period to life with some impressive clarity. Whether describing how "stars blazed in the dark sky" or how she "never thought that a paradise like this could turn into a burning hell and a living grave," Lohn crafts scenes that are as historically significant as they are personal. Lohn also explores Minahasan cultural practices and values throughout the book-particularly the concept of mapalus ("working together for each other"), which serves as a powerful metaphor for survival.

While the larger historical moments are certainly powerful, some of the memoir's most affecting moments can be found in the details of Lohn's personal narrative: the American flag hidden in a pillow, the secret garden that becomes both sanctuary and sacrifice, the complex relationships with Japanese soldiers. It's these vivid recollections that transform what could have been a straightforward wartime narrative into a much more nuanced exploration of identity, community, and resilience.

Readers unfamiliar with the geography and cultural context of wartime Indonesia (or history buffs in general) will likely enjoy the extensive supplementary materials. The careful attention to Indonesian language and customs, detailed wartime maps of Minahasa, comprehensive glossary, and previously unpublished family photographs provide invaluable context to Lohn's narrative.

Ultimately, BLUE SKIES, TROUBLED WATERS offers an important look into an otherwise under-explored chapter of World War II history. It's also a story that resonates with today, especially as communities worldwide continue to face displacement and persecution. As Kimmel explains, his grandma's story "is a message of hope in a time of despair. A miraculous feat for all who have experienced similar atrocities."

...A unique perspective on a pivotal moment in history through the eyes of those who lived it, resulting in a history-rich narrative that will appeal to fans of World War II literature and Asian-American narratives alike.

James Weiskittel for IndieReader

Review Quotes

"Deportation, occupation, war-each driven by a singular idea: survival against all odds. Blue Skies, Troubled Waters traces the footsteps of Ath, her twin sister Kath, and their family as they experience deportation from New Jersey to the Minahasa Peninsula in North Sulawesi, just before Indonesia's transition from Dutch to Japanese occupation. Yet, their story only begins there. Amid horrors and separation, an arrow of resilience pierces through, revealing the enduring strength of community, and the comfort of songs. Ath and her family's story remain relevant to our times, demonstrating how our stories intertwine across the world, and how the tremors of history continue to shape lives today. This memoir bears witness to our shared history and humanity, ensuring that they are not forgotten." -Jeddie Sophronius, author of Interrogation Records

"Martha Walandouw Lohn and Brian Kimmel's BLUE SKIES, TROUBLED WATERS: An American Twin's WWII Odyssey in Minahasa, Indonesia offers a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in history through the eyes of those who lived it, resulting in a history-rich narrative that will appeal to fans of World War II literature and Asian-American narratives alike." James Weiskittel for IndieReader

"This book is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. The twins' journey, co-authored by Ath's grandson, brings to life the power of family and community in the face of unimaginable hardship. Every chapter is rich with emotion and historical insight, supported by newly revealed maps, personal photos, and documents that deepen the reader's understanding of this forgotten chapter of history.

The authors capture both the innocence and resilience of childhood in wartime, showing us how courage can blossom in even the darkest circumstances. It's not just a war story-it's a story of love, unity, and hope. This story will stay with you long after you turn the last page, a haunting reminder of the strength that can be found when we stand together.

In today's climate, where refugees and immigrants around the world are once again facing persecution and displacement, this story feels more relevant than ever. "Blue Skies, Troubled Waters" is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the resilience of the human spirit-and the price that is often paid by those caught in the tides of history." -Ellen Laura, author

"Sparkling with energetic, visual prose, this page-turner invites us into a child's direct experience of World War II in what is now Indonesia (then a Dutch colony)...Today's readers will benefit from this history as we face into our own generation's world-wide struggles with immigration, deportation, violent warfare, racial hatred, oppressive governments, and changing weather patterns. There is much for us to learn from this touching and remarkable gift from the heart." -Louise Dunlap, elder, teacher, and author of Inherited Silence: Listening to the Land, Healing the Colonizer Mind.

"If I had to use one word to describe Blue Skies, Troubled Waters, it would be Love." -Martha Cinader for Listen & Be Heard