A review by katykat3
The Pillow Book by Sei Shōnagon

4.0

A unique collection of poems, lists, and descriptions of daily events in the Heian court in the late 900s by one of the ladies-in-waiting, Sei Shonagon, who served Empress Sadako during that time. I read this book in two main chunks. I found that the first section I read was interesting, but more from a historical standpoint. However, when I picked up the book again earlier this year, I suddenly found myself really connecting with Shonagon. I was able to picture scenes from her life or imagination better, and enjoyed seeing a familiar cast of people come up again and again in her stories. I was able to really connect with her and see her as a real person -- I loved her quick wit, her skill with words and fancy puns, and her love of moonlight. The footnotes were instrumental in helping understand key references to poems and stories that the people made, and are completely necessary to read along with Shonagon's text, but because they are so helpful, it wasn't too bothersome for me. Very happy that my attitude toward this book changed mid-read, and very glad I picked up a copy so long ago on somewhat of a whim.