Product Review

The Emperor's Guest places the reader in the Dutch East Indies during WW II, when Japan invades and interns all Westerners. Gijs (sounds like Chris), the son of a Dutch navy officer, stationed on Java, is seventeen when he enters prison camp. Separated from his family he faces hunger, beatings and serious illness. The ensuing tale is a spellbinding account of the transition from colonialists to captives in a country far from an equally war-torn motherland. The story chronicals shipwrecks, escape attempts, military and national honor, and the way in which people coalesce in difficult times. It is at once a disturbing account of war time atrocities and a rollicking tale. Gijs is separated from his family for three years and has no choice but to fend for himself. New friends, unforgettable characters like Pieter Donk and Keereweer. cross his path. Together they face painful beatings and hunger. Unbeknown to him, the atom bomb saves his life. The reader can't help but admire the resilience and compassion of this story's characters, who refuse to have their spirits broken by humiliation and degradation. Gijs comes out of prison camp with a clear vision of what he wants to do with the rest of his life. This is a compelling, true story, written by his author/wife.