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History of mixed-race children orphaned in Germany after WWII inspires new novel by Sadeqa Johnson

NPR | By Justine Kenin,

Elena Burnett, Emily Kwong

Published February 22, 2026 at 5:06 PM EST

NPR's Emily Kwong speaks with Sadeqa Johnson about her new novel THE KEEPER OF LOST CHILDREN and discovering the story of mixed-race children who were left in German orphanages following World War II.

Copyright 2026 NPR

Justine Kenin

Justine Kenin is an editor on All Things Considered. She joined NPR in 1999 as an intern. Nothing makes her happier than getting a book in the right reader's hands – most especially her own.

Elena Burnett

[Copyright 2024 NPR]

See stories by Elena Burnett

Emily Kwong

Emily Kwong (she/her) is the reporter for NPR's daily science podcast, Short Wave. The podcast explores new discoveries, everyday mysteries and the science behind the headlines — all in about 10 minutes, Monday through Friday.

See stories by Emily Kwong

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