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heddas_bookgems's Reviews (490)
“Sunja-ya, a woman’s life is endless work and suffering. There is suffering and then more suffering. It’s better to expect it, you know. You’re becoming a woman now, so you should be told this. For a woman, the man you marry will determine the quality of your life completely. A good man is a decent life, and a bad man is a cursed life—but no matter what, always expect suffering, and just keep working hard.”
Pachinko, a historical family saga following four generations of Korean origin in the beginning of the Japanese colonization of Korea. In the first part of the book we follow Sunja, a daughter of a well established family running a boardinghouse. When, as unmarried woman, Sunja gets pregnant, she has to make difficult decisions that will shape her future for the sake of her family’s honor and child.
I absolutely adored this novel. It was heartfelt, informative, political and personal at the same time and excellently written. Although many wait with this book because of its length, I haven’t once thought it took too long. The characters were so well sculpted that you really felt for this family and experienced with them what time does on believes, opinions and establishments. Especially the way discrimination influences the actions of every generation in a family was striking. I highly recommend this book to everyone who’s interested in Korean history, a character based novel or family saga.
Pachinko, a historical family saga following four generations of Korean origin in the beginning of the Japanese colonization of Korea. In the first part of the book we follow Sunja, a daughter of a well established family running a boardinghouse. When, as unmarried woman, Sunja gets pregnant, she has to make difficult decisions that will shape her future for the sake of her family’s honor and child.
I absolutely adored this novel. It was heartfelt, informative, political and personal at the same time and excellently written. Although many wait with this book because of its length, I haven’t once thought it took too long. The characters were so well sculpted that you really felt for this family and experienced with them what time does on believes, opinions and establishments. Especially the way discrimination influences the actions of every generation in a family was striking. I highly recommend this book to everyone who’s interested in Korean history, a character based novel or family saga.
“The ancient Greeks had a different idea. They said it all started not with a bang, but with Chaos. […] Think of Chaos perhaps as a kind of grand cosmic yawn. As in a yawning chasm or a yawning void.”
Stephen Fry's lifelong fascination with Greek myths shines brightly in "Mythos: The Greek Myths Retold," where he lovingly presents these timeless tales in a modern light. From the chaos of creation to the complexities of human existence, Fry's witty and engaging narration breathes new life into these ancient stories, all while staying true to their original essence.
Traditionally, Greek myths may evoke images of dense prose and tragic narratives, but Fry deftly sidesteps these pitfalls with his humorous retellings. In "Mythos," he expertly blends well-known tales with lesser-known gems, bringing each myth to vibrant life through vivid storytelling and rich illustrations. The inclusion of artwork, including renowned pieces like Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus," adds an extra layer of depth to the reading experience.
As a longtime mythology enthusiast, I found "Mythos" to be a delightful read. However, it's worth noting that the book is structured more like a collection of short stories rather than a cohesive narrative. Nevertheless, for anyone seeking an accessible and entertaining introduction to Greek mythology, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up a copy.
Tip: Fry's narration of the audiobook is top-notch and highly recommended. Additionally, music lovers can enjoy a condensed version of the myths with the Mythos Suite, available on Spotify.
Stephen Fry's lifelong fascination with Greek myths shines brightly in "Mythos: The Greek Myths Retold," where he lovingly presents these timeless tales in a modern light. From the chaos of creation to the complexities of human existence, Fry's witty and engaging narration breathes new life into these ancient stories, all while staying true to their original essence.
Traditionally, Greek myths may evoke images of dense prose and tragic narratives, but Fry deftly sidesteps these pitfalls with his humorous retellings. In "Mythos," he expertly blends well-known tales with lesser-known gems, bringing each myth to vibrant life through vivid storytelling and rich illustrations. The inclusion of artwork, including renowned pieces like Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus," adds an extra layer of depth to the reading experience.
As a longtime mythology enthusiast, I found "Mythos" to be a delightful read. However, it's worth noting that the book is structured more like a collection of short stories rather than a cohesive narrative. Nevertheless, for anyone seeking an accessible and entertaining introduction to Greek mythology, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up a copy.
Tip: Fry's narration of the audiobook is top-notch and highly recommended. Additionally, music lovers can enjoy a condensed version of the myths with the Mythos Suite, available on Spotify.
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