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4.36 AVERAGE
4.36 AVERAGE
4.5 stars
I was engrossed in this wonderful book and couldn’t bear to put it down. I was hugely caught up in the beautifully vivid characters, scenery and stories.
I also loved that I learnt a lot about inter relations with Korea and Japan without it being forced upon me as a reader; the best historical fiction does that.
Ultimately I adored the first 2/3 of this gorgeous novel and felt the pacing in the last 1/3 a bit rushed in comparison so there wasn’t so much time to become fully emotionally invested in the characters’ lives. That’s turned it into a 4 star not 5 star read for me but I highly recommend it.
This is the perfect example of a multigenerational saga done right.
There were a few brief moments of confusion when new perspectives were introduced, but overall the story was beautifully executed and taught me so much. The hardship and prejudice that Koreans faced in Japan were portrayed through the characters’ daily lives, so it never felt like a textbook or history lesson.
I felt so invested in these stories and honestly would’ve loved for it to keep going into the 21st century!
There were a few brief moments of confusion when new perspectives were introduced, but overall the story was beautifully executed and taught me so much. The hardship and prejudice that Koreans faced in Japan were portrayed through the characters’ daily lives, so it never felt like a textbook or history lesson.
I felt so invested in these stories and honestly would’ve loved for it to keep going into the 21st century!
slow-paced
I did not find the story particularly engaging - I usually like books that follow characters, which allow you to really understand and appreciate the characters, rather than books that focus more on action; however, this book just wasn't for me. I didn't particularly like the characters, or really care what happened to them, which made it hard to keep reading.
adventurous
challenging
emotional
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I was extremely into this book and I did not EXPECT to be ❤️🥰
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
"Pachinko" is a poignant exploration of identity, family, and resilience against the backdrop of the Japanese occupation of Korea. Min Jin Lee weaves an intricate tapestry of characters, each with their own backstories and futures that can be overwhelming at times. The book's length adds to this complexity; while it immerses readers in its rich historical context, it also demands significant investment in remembering who’s who.
The narrative offers moments of profound insight into the struggles faced by Koreans during this tumultuous period, prompting reflection on history and its impact on personal lives. However, there were stretches that felt unbearably long, making it challenging to maintain engagement. Some plot twists led to despair that surprised me but didn’t always feel necessary for the story's progression.
Overall, while "Pachinko" presents a compelling narrative filled with emotional depth and historical significance, its length and character density may deter some readers. It's a good story that leaves an impression but could benefit from tighter pacing.
The narrative offers moments of profound insight into the struggles faced by Koreans during this tumultuous period, prompting reflection on history and its impact on personal lives. However, there were stretches that felt unbearably long, making it challenging to maintain engagement. Some plot twists led to despair that surprised me but didn’t always feel necessary for the story's progression.
Overall, while "Pachinko" presents a compelling narrative filled with emotional depth and historical significance, its length and character density may deter some readers. It's a good story that leaves an impression but could benefit from tighter pacing.
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
N/A
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
challenging
emotional
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
challenging
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
This book reminded me how much I love a good historical fiction. While I want to say this was a slow burn, it had to be. Dragging all of the emotional turmoil, reading through the lives and relationships of each character is what made this book what it is! I now know it's a show, but I fear I wouldn't care for it as much as this book. Amazing storytelling, you feel all the things, but somehow it wasn't too much. Love, and def recommend.