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Pachinko

560 pages, 2020

fiction

fiction

1382 books
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A New York Times Top Ten Book of the Year and National Book Award finalist, Pachinko is an extraordinary epic of four generations of a poor Korean immigrant family as they fight to control their destiny in 20th-century Japan (San Francisco Chronicle). Roxanne Gays Favorite Book of 2017, Washington Post There could only be a few winners, and many losers. And yet, we played on because we had hope that we might be the lucky ones. In the early 1900s, teenaged Sunja, the adored daughter of a crippled fisherman, falls for a wealthy stranger at the seashore near her home in Korea. He promises her the world, but when she discovers she is pregnant--and that her lover is married--she refuses to be bought. Instead, she accepts an offer of marriage from a gentle, sickly minister passing through on his way to Japan. But her decision to abandon her home, and to reject her son's powerful father, sets off a dramatic saga that will echo down through the generations.
The Power of Resilience

In Pachinko, Min Jin Lee shows us the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The characters face numerous challenges, from poverty to discrimination, but they never give up. They adapt, they fight, and they survive. This book is a great reminder that we too can overcome our own obstacles.

Understanding Cultural Identity

The book explores the complex issue of cultural identity. The characters are Koreans living in Japan, and they struggle to find their place in a society that sees them as outsiders. It's a thought-provoking look into the experiences of immigrants and the challenges they face in preserving their cultural heritage while trying to fit into a new society.

The Impact of History

Pachinko is set against the backdrop of historical events, from the Japanese occupation of Korea to World War II. It shows how these events shape the lives of the characters and their descendants. It's a fascinating way to learn about history and see its impact on individuals and families.

The Role of Women

Min Jin Lee presents us with strong, complex female characters who play a crucial role in their families and communities. Despite the societal constraints of their time, these women strive for independence and make significant contributions to their families' survival and success. It's an inspiring look into the power and resilience of women.

The Importance of Family

At its heart, Pachinko is a family saga. It explores the bonds between parents and children, siblings, and spouses. It shows us the sacrifices people make for their loved ones and the ways families support each other in times of crisis. It's a beautiful reminder of the importance of family in our lives.

Quotes 3

A captivating saga about the trials and tribulations of one family, 'Pachinko' is a book I'd recommend for anyone interested in the power of resilience and the strength of the human spirit.

Barack ObamaBarack Obama - 44th U.S. President

'Pachinko' is a powerful, moving story that explores the effects of sweeping historical changes on individuals and families. It's a book that really makes you think.

Bill GatesBill Gates - Microsoft Co-founder

Min Jin Lee's 'Pachinko' is a masterful epic that intertwines the fate of one family with the turbulent history of Korea. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

Oprah WinfreyOprah Winfrey - Media Mogul
Barack ObamaBill GatesOprah Winfrey

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