The United States’ State Department compiled a list of American books for translation into Japanese as part of a reeducation program in the occupied country. The Long Winter was one of the first titles published. Laura was asked to write a message to Japanese children as a result.
Rocky Ridge Farm
Mansfield, Missouri U.S.A.
July 8, 1948
Dear Japanese Children.
Though you are far away and speak a different language, still the things worthwhile in life are the same for us all and the same as when I was a child so long ago.
Things of real value do not change with the passing of years nor in going from one country to another.
These I am sure you have.
It is always best to be honest and truthful; to make the most of what we have; to be happy with simple pleasures, to be cheerful in adversity and have courage in danger.
With love to you all and best wishes for your happiness, I am
Sincerely your friend,
Laura Ingalls Wilder
From THE SELECTED LETTERS OF LAURA INGALLS WILDER by William Anderson Copyright © 2016 by William Anderson. Reprinted courtesy of Harper, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Cybersecurity Experts Are Sounding the Alarm on DOGE
- Meet the 2025 Women of the Year
- The Harsh Truth About Disability Inclusion
- Why Do More Young Adults Have Cancer?
- Colman Domingo Leads With Radical Love
- How to Get Better at Doing Things Alone
- Michelle Zauner Stares Down the Darkness
Contact us at letters@time.com