August Meeting: Facing the Mountain by Daniel James Brown

For our August selection, we’re reading Facing the Mountain by Daniel James Brown—a gripping, deeply human story of courage, patriotism, and resilience in the face of injustice.

Brown, acclaimed author of The Boys in the Boat, turns his attention to the Japanese American experience during World War II, weaving together the stories of four young men who volunteered for the 442nd Regimental Combat Team while their families faced incarceration back home. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Facing the Mountain sheds light on questions of identity, loyalty, and what it means to stand up for one’s country—even when that country has turned its back.

This book invites us to grapple with the complexities of history, race, and belonging in America. It’s a powerful, thought-provoking read—perfect for sparking honest conversation about citizenship, courage, and the meaning of patriotism, both then and now.