White Chrysanthemum by Mary Lynn Bracht tells the story of two Korean sisters, Hana and Emi, who grow up on Jeju Island during World War II. Hana is kidnapped by a Japanese soldier and forced into sexual slavery as a “comfort woman,” where she endures extreme suffering and trauma.
The novel alternates between Hana’s past and Emi’s present life. While Hana struggles to survive during the war, Emi grows up haunted by guilt and the loss of her sister. In old age, Emi searches for the truth about what happened to Hana.
The book explores themes of war, trauma, sisterhood, memory, and survival, highlighting the lasting impact of historical injustice.