A review by friendofhayley
The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See

challenging emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I got this book as a gift from my partner, since I'm half-Korean and I have been trying to learn more about that side of my family.
It was so interesting (and heart-breaking) to find out the chaos and deaths American imperialists (not just the Japanese) subjected Korea too, which is something I never learned before.
It was so interesting learning about the hanyeo as well. 

However the historical context and events were my favorite parts of the book.
I disliked the main character and the actions she took, although I definitely understand that it was realistic because she acted just like my own estranged mother.
But this might just be a personal taste thing.

I also was waiting until the end to see if perhaps the relationship between Young-Sook and Mi-Ja had at least a one-sided romantic attraction, but alas.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings