A review by readwithmika
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

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

4.0

Pachinko is a historical novel set in Korea and Japan that spans over four generations of a family. The author is able to provide both depth and breadth of the characters and what was happening in Japan and Korea during this time.  

The characters in the book were great to follow along. They were complicated, strong, and fully human. It was also interesting to read about four generations of a family. To be able to see the similarities among them and the ways there were differed was so telling of how is it in families. 

The book explores family dynamics, love, loyalty, identity, and racism. So many of these topics can lead to many conversations and personal reflections. The theme of family is central to the book and the author did a beautiful job taking the reader on a journey through a family. It is a long book (over 400 pages), but definitely worth finishing. As someone who enjoys learning about history & other cultures, this book hit the mark. 

📚Favorite quote: “Learn everything. Fill your mind with knowledge- it’s the only kind of power no one can take away from you.”
Expand filter menu Content Warnings