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

challenging dark informative slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

This was recommended by two friends and I’m grateful I read it 🥹

We flit between Young-sook’s perspective as an old haenyeo ‘thriving’ in Jeju (2008) then her and the haenyeo community and the traumas they had to endure (1930’s onwards). This was difficult for me to get used to, so there were some moments where I wanted to put the book down. However, this book helped me learn so much about haenyeo and I did go back for more. 

Young-sook and Mi-ja’s friendship was so deep, I could only imagine the horrific hurt they both experienced 😫
I absolutely adored the ending though, Janet and Clara revealing their persimmon-dyed diving clothes got me all teary ❤️

3.5 out of 5 stars for me, thank you ✨
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