Nuclear Disarmament Resources for Families

by Lauren Pope

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These resources help families of all backgrounds understand why nuclear disarmament matters for human dignity and the future of our world.

Books for ages 4-8

My Hiroshima by Junko Morimoto

• First-hand account from atomic bombing survivor

• Honest depiction of aftermath (content warning: graphic)

• Helps young children understand historical reality

The Peace Tree from Hiroshima by Sandra Moore, illustrated by Kazumi Wilds

• Story of bonsai tree that survived Hiroshima bombing

• Four generations caring for tree as symbol of hope

• Tree now lives at National Arboretum in Washington, D.C.

• Ages 8+, historical fiction

Media for middle grade and teens

For additional age-appropriate books: Hiroshima Bombing Project Book List

Teens:

• Graphic Novel: Barefoot Gen by Keiji Nakazawa (mature content, powerful Hiroshima story)

• Documentary: White Light/Black Rain (HBO, survivor interviews)

Media for adults

Book: The Crazy Iris and Other Stories of the Atomic Aftermath

• A collection by Japan's leading writers

• 40th anniversary commemoration of bombings

• Stories showing impact on daily life: families, artists, children

• Details like "crazy iris that grows out of season" and "artist who no longer paints in color"

Movie: Grave of the Fireflies

Family Movie Night (Ages 10+)

Godzilla (1954)

• Did you know? The original Godzilla was Japan's way of processing nuclear trauma, not just entertainment.

• Context: Released 9 years after Hiroshima/Nagasaki, director Ishirō Honda created Godzilla as a "giant creature awakened by nuclear radiation" — a walking symbol of nuclear destruction.

• Discussion Questions:

  • What wakes Godzilla up? (Nuclear testing/radiation)

  • Why use a giant monster to represent nuclear weapons?

  • How do people in the movie feel when Godzilla appears? (Fear, helplessness)

  • What does Godzilla destroying cities represent?

Art and Reflection

For Kids

Art Activity: View image of Teizō Toshimitsu sculpting Godzilla prototype

• Discuss how artists process difficult topics

• Create your own peace-themed artwork

For Adults

Study: Atomic Photographers & Artists, including Salvador Dalí's nuclear-themed works

Music & Audio

Song Discussion: "Enola Gay" by OMD

• Talk about naming the plane that dropped the bomb

• How music addresses historical events

Podcasts: Episodes about Hiroshima/Nagasaki (for families with older kids)

Hands-On Activities

The Peace Crane Project

• Paper crane folding tutorial included

• Pen pal program available

• Raw instruction files provided

Family Activities

• Peace Tree Planting (inspired by Hiroshima bonsai story)

• Create Peace Flag/Banner for August 9th vigil participation

• Family Peace Pledge writing activity

Take Action

Contact Your Representatives

Urge Congress to:

• Pursue nuclear disarmament as national security imperative

• Renounce first use of nuclear weapons

• End sole presidential launch authority

• Cancel plans for new enhanced nuclear weapons

• Maintain moratorium on explosive nuclear testing

• Support economic transition for affected communities

Join Events

• Our August 9th Vigil

  • Date: August 9th (Nagasaki Anniversary)

  • Location: White House, Washington D.C.

  • Time: 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM ET

  • Bring: Peace cranes, flags, or banners you've created

• World Beyond War Events Full list here

Join us in witnessing against nuclear weapons and calling for a world of peace.