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Inspired by the life of Kim's mother, The Calligrapher's Daughter covers a relatively unknown chapter (to Western eyes) in world history. Critics found Japanese-occupied Korea an intriguing setting that serves to distinguish Kim's work from an abundance of Asian mother-daughter novels, and Najin's conflict with her traditional father skillfully mirrors Korea's bitter struggle with occupying forces. Although several reviewers noted an abrupt ending and occasional slow passages, they also lauded K
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In my own rating system I would have given this a 3 1/2 rather than a 3. I felt the book was a very slow read but the history of the far east from 1915 to 1945 was interesting. The way the author explained the Korean culture and history helped clairfy why the world today is the way it is. The story is basically told through the eyes of Najin who struggles mightily with issues of faith, feminism, love, honor, duty, patriotism. Her strong spirit and forward thinking often put s her in precarious p
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This was a wonderful story about Korean culture, feminism, and family. The book started slowly for me, but after and hour of two of reading I became caught up in the story. This is the first time I've read about Korean culture, it's traditions and the role of women in their society. I found it fascinating! I also loved the strong character of Najin Han, who tirelessly sacrificed for her family, and won some personal victories of her own. Not only was the book entertaining, but I feel I came away
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Aug 13, 2009
Julie
marked it as to-read
Apr 18, 2010
Barb
marked it as to-read
Jul 01, 2010
Sharon
marked it as to-read
Jun 28, 2011
Cheryl
rated it
really liked it
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review of another edition
Shelves:
recommended-books,
2011-books
Oct 13, 2011
Heather (DeathByBook)
marked it as to-read
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review of another edition
Shelves:
around-the-world
Mar 22, 2012
Das
marked it as to-read
Mar 25, 2013
Christina Browne
marked it as to-read
May 23, 2013
Linda
marked it as to-read
Apr 01, 2016
Stephanie
marked it as to-read
Jul 05, 2016
Kevin
marked it as to-read
Mar 18, 2019
Rosie
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Feb 15, 2020
Megan
marked it as to-read
