Photo by Olivia Stouffer
Angela Shupe is the author of the new novel In the Light of the Sun.
Q: How much was In the Light of the Sun inspired by your own family history?
A: As a child, I was captivated by the stories my mom and aunts told about their lives in the Philippines before, during, and after the war, along with my aunt, who voice-trained in Italy with their nonna, a former Italian soprano.
The novel was inspired by their stories and by the desire to honor them and their experiences. My mom and aunts were strong women who, by example, showed it's possible to go through significant difficulty and still live life fully, with joy and hope.
Q: How did you research the novel, and did you learn anything that especially surprised you?
A: Along with interviewing my aunts and godmother, I delved into many resources, including firsthand accounts of people who lived through the war in the Philippines and in Italy.
I researched the guerrilla troops in the Philippines, the resistance in Italy, particularly women's roles within the resistance, and music in Italy under Mussolini, among other topics. I reached out to a few professors who helped direct me in my research efforts.
I've also visited Italy several times, which helped as I wrote. If readers are interested, more information on my research can be found on my website.
One thing that surprised me while researching was how many women were affected by the Japanese military strategy of using what they termed “comfort houses.” Approximately 200,000 young women and girls were forcibly taken and subjected to brutal sexual slavery in Asia by the Japanese military.
Though I was aware that this happened in the Philippines, I was stunned and grieved reading about their experiences and at how many women were affected by this horrific practice.
Q: The author Amanda Barratt said of the book, “This book is a powerful exploration of the courage of ordinary people, the unbreakable ties of sisterhood, and the abiding bond between music and hope.” What do you think of that description?
A: I'm so grateful for Amanda's words. The idea of ordinary people overcoming in the most difficult of circumstances is one thing that draws me to a story. That Amanda found this in the book is very gratifying. Music has a unique and unifying quality to bring hope in times of struggle.
Q: How was the novel’s title chosen, and what does it signify for you?
A: The title came from my husband after he read an early draft of the manuscript. It is so fitting, and I was glad the title was kept through the publishing process.
Throughout the book, the characters are confronted with the struggle to overcome. Looking for the good in the middle of the difficulty is one way they keep going. I have found that to be true in my own life.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I've been doing research for another family-inspired novel that would go back in time, long before WWII. As the story would take place in several countries, the research is proving a bit difficult. But I'm forging ahead and hope to bring the story to the page.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: I'm so grateful to readers who've read In the Light of the Sun. I appreciate that they've spent their time getting to know Caramina, Rosa, and their family. I love hearing from readers! Please feel free to reach out through my Instagram or my website.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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