haley49 's review for:

The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See

4.75

adventurous dark emotional sad medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

---

This book was so well-done. I was utterly heartbroken and shaken by the turn of the story post ww2 as my knowledge of Korean history is very limited. The history and character-driven story of a breakup between best friends reads as realistic and bittersweet. I also really appreciated the unique perspective on what a woman’s role is and what it means to be a female provider in a culture that despite being women-led largely benefited the men. The culture of sea women and how it shaped Jeju was super interesting. This is one of those historical’s that makes you appreciate life. 

---

Content Warnings

Graphic: Child death, Death, Misogyny, Rape, Suicidal thoughts, Violence, Grief, Death of parent, War

Moderate: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Gore, Gun violence, Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Sexual violence, Terminal illness, Torture, Toxic relationship, Xenophobia, Vomit, Medical content, Injury/Injury detail