In an exclusive account, Brad and Julia Riew share their heartfelt tribute to their immigrant Grandpa through their new book, ‘The Last Tiger’. The siblings draw inspiration from their grandparents’ remarkable journey filled with love, resilience, and triumph over adversity in South Korea. Despite facing unimaginable challenges during times of political turmoil and personal struggles, their grandparents’ love story serves as a beacon of hope and strength for future generations.
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The sudden passing of their Grandpa in 2020 sparked a deep reflection on the importance of preserving family history for Brad and Julia. Their Grandma’s poignant recounting of their lives together revealed the depth of their experiences and the resilience that defined their relationship. Through stories passed down through generations, the Riew siblings discovered the extraordinary courage and dedication that shaped their grandparents’ lives.
Growing up hearing tales of their grandparents’ forbidden love during a time of occupation and hardship in Korea, Brad and Julia were inspired to bring their story to life in a Young Adult Fantasy novel. By reimagining their grandparents as characters in a fantastical world, the siblings sought to honour their legacy and share their remarkable journey with a wider audience.
The novel, ‘The Last Tiger’, delves into themes of suffering, oppression, love, and freedom, offering readers a glimpse into a world where emotion and memory hold transformative power. Through the lens of fantasy, Brad and Julia aim to engage readers in a meaningful exploration of human nature and history, intertwining entertainment with education to spark reflection and empathy.
For the Riew siblings, the process of co-writing the book was a way to bridge the gap between generations and ensure that their family’s heritage was preserved for future descendants. By infusing their grandparents’ experiences with elements of fantasy and magic, Brad and Julia hope to inspire readers to connect with their own roots and find strength in the stories of those who came before them.
As third-generation Korean Americans, Brad and Julia understand the importance of acknowledging their cultural heritage and the sacrifices made by their ancestors. Through ‘The Last Tiger’, they invite readers to reflect on the resilience and courage displayed by ordinary heroes in the face of extraordinary challenges, drawing parallels to the uncertainties of the present day.
In a world fraught with challenges and uncertainties, the Riew siblings draw inspiration from their grandparents’ unwavering love and belief in a better future. By honouring their legacy through storytelling, Brad and Julia hope to instil a sense of resilience and hope in readers, reminding them that they are never alone in facing life’s trials.
‘The Last Tiger’ serves as a poignant tribute to the indomitable spirit of Brad and Julia’s immigrant Grandpa and the enduring legacy of love and courage he left behind. Through their novel, the siblings offer a timeless reminder of the power of storytelling to connect generations, preserve memories, and inspire hope for the future.