As I Have Loved You

Book excerpt: Kitty de Ruyter Bon was only eight years old when her island paradise of Java, Indonesia, was invaded by Japanese soldiers during World War II. Up to that time, her life had been one of luxury and privilege. As both of Kitty's parents were devout Christians, her day started with a hymn and a scripture from the Bible. When the Japanese arrived on Java, all men, including Kitty's father, were immediately placed in prison camps. Kitty's father escaped and formed a resistance among the Indonesians, although he was later recaptured. Kitty and her family were taken to prison camps, and Kitty tells of her mothers tremendous courage and example.