The House Before Falling Into the Sea
Written by Ann Suk Wang │ Illustrated by Hanna Cha
Verdict:
A tender, powerful picture book that gently introduces children to hardship, gratitude, and resilience while celebrating the kindness that carries people through difficult times.
What is it about?
Based on true events, The House Before Falling Into the Sea follows a young girl named Kyung living in Busan, South Korea. As war and displacement cause many families to flee north, her family opens their seaside house to refugees in need of shelter. The arrival of strangers turns their home into a crowded, noisy sanctuary, and for Kyung, this upheaval brings fear, discomfort, and longing for the way things used to be. Yet through her parents’ example and the stories of those they help, she gradually learns that offering compassion and hospitality — even when it is hard — saves lives, forges friendships, and shows the power of kindness in dark times.
Our take:
Though the subject matter is serious, the events in this book are portrayed with gentleness and without violence, to moving effect. The focus stay firmly on how one responds to life’s challenges, and how those experiences can be either devastating or strength-building.
The loose, lively ink-and-watercolor illustrations capture both the turbulence of the moment and the pockets of peace that sustain the characters. The story incorporates Korean words and invites readers to notice customs and history without over-explaining them in the text itself. Ultimately, the ending is hopeful in every way.
Perfect for:
Families and educators who want to introduce children to difficult topics such as displacement and the cost of war. This book makes a meaningful read-aloud for many occasions. It works well for Thanksgiving and the holidays, encouraging children to notice the good around them, feel gratitude, and show it to others. It is also helpful during times when life feels bleak, showing children that good can emerge from hardship and that difficult moments can help shape kinder, more generous people.
The book is also a wonderful doorway into learning about Korean culture and history, inviting discussions about different ways of speaking, showing politeness, and sharing food. While reading, children may need occasional pauses for clarification. A helpful glossary appears at the back of the book, along with notes on names and customs.
Conversation Starters
Who is your neighbor? How should we help our neighbors? Would we take them into our house, if they had nowhere to go?
Are friends for good times or bad times? What have you learned from a friend? What has a friend learned from you?
How does it help everyone when someone is thankful? What are you thankful for?
Who helps you through hard times? Have you said "Thank you"?
Is a stone a good gift?
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