The Pine Song: A Korean-American Journey

by Heok Kim Smith

Overview

The Pine Song: A Korean-American Journey

We live in a death-denying and -defying society. With baby boomers growing older, we are seeing an explosion of efforts to live longer. Live longer for what? This question has guided Heok Kim Smith since her father's death in 1982. As an immigrant from South Korea to the U.S. in her early 20s, she had no time for death and dying. In 2001, she finds herself in Korea retracing her ancestors' footsteps, spirits, and her own past. The changing world in the first half of 1900s becomes the root of her family's epic journey. Her grandfather's valiant fight against the Japanese occupation of Korea sees her family in China and the U.S.
The Pine Song interweaves family history, immigrant life, contemplation on life and death, belonging, remembrance, and finally, grace and gratitude. In the circle of life, this memoir reflects on larger issues stemming from one family's experiences.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780996749503
Publisher:	Creative Herds
Publication date:	09/25/2015
Pages:	296
Product dimensions:	5.25(w) x 8.00(h) x 0.67(d)

About the Author

Born in Busan and grew up in Seoul, South Korea, Heok Kim Smith emigrated to the U.S. with her family in 1976. Trained in art history, her writing experience includes art historical research and writing, art reviews and criticism. She has taught art and world history and worked in a museum as a curator. The author writes about history, art, philosophy, religion, culture, and travel. She enjoys reading, cooking, and walking. She lives in Seattle with her husband. Please visit her website: www.CreativeHerds.com.