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Books matching: life of a geisha

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Showing 1 - 10 of 12 
  1. #1

    Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
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    'Memoirs of a Geisha' by Arthur Golden is a captivating historical fiction novel that follows the life of Sayuri, a young girl who is sold into the world of geishas in pre-WWII Japan. The book provides a detailed insight into the life of a geisha, from the elaborate ceremonies and dances to the personal struggles and triumphs of the main character. The writing style of the book is described as beautifully written, engaging, and almost lyrical, transporting readers to a different time and place with vivid descriptions and rich detail.

    Suppose that you and I were sitting in a quiet room overlooking a garden, chatting and sipping at our cups of green tea while we talked about something that had happened a long while ago, and I said t...

  2. #2

    Geisha, a Life by Mineko Iwasaki
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    'Geisha, A Life' by Mineko Iwasaki is an autobiography that provides a first-hand account of Mineko's life as one of Japan's top geisha in the 60s. The book delves into the culture of the geisha world, showcasing the training of women from childhood to adulthood, and offering insights into the motivation behind perfecting traditional Japanese arts.

    The narrative in 'Geisha, A Life' is praised for its honesty and clarification of the true lives of geisha, contrasting it with the fictionalized portrayal in 'Memoirs of a Geisha.' The book covers Mineko's journey from being an apprentice maiko to her experiences as a geiko, giving readers a detailed look at the day-to-day life of a geisha and the adventures she embarked on during her career.


  3. #3

    Autobiography of a Geisha by Sayo Masuda
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    'Autobiography of a Geisha' by Sayo Masuda is a heartbreaking tale of a young woman who was sold into the Hot Spring Geisha business and faced hardship and heartbreak in her journey to find acceptance and meaning in a world where sexual relations were an expectation. Unlike the glamorous portrayal in 'Memoirs of a Geisha', Masuda's autobiography provides an unvarnished look at the life of a geisha in prewar Japan, showcasing the seamy side of the story and offering a different perspective on the world of geisha compared to other autobiographies.


  4. #4

    Spring Moon: A Novel of China by Bette Bao Lord
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    "Spring Moon: A Novel of China" by Bette Bao Lord follows the life of Spring Moon, a young girl born into a wealthy family in Imperialist China. The story spans from the late 1800s to the 1970s, covering five generations through the tumultuous times of Emperors, Warlords, Nationalists, and Communists. Spring Moon's life is marked by drama, heartache, rare moments of happiness, and difficult decisions, providing insights into Chinese history, culture, and traditions.

    The narrative of "Spring Moon" is rich in historical details and cultural nuances, offering a glimpse into the sequestered world of privileged women in 19th-century China. Through the eyes of Spring Moon and her family, readers are taken on a journey filled with hope, love, despair, and tradition, all against the backdrop of China's turbulent history. seamlessly weaves ancient tales, legends, and historical events into the storyline, providing a comprehensive view of Chinese society and the impact of historical forces on individuals.


  5. #5
    Shogun
    Book 1 in the series:Asian Saga

    Shogun - Asian Saga by James Clavell
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    Shogun by James Clavell is an epic tale set in 16th century Japan, following the journey of English protagonist Blackthorne as he navigates a new continent, new customs, and new ways of life. The story delves into Blackthorne's transformation from a heretic to a Samurai, his struggles with loyalty, and his romantic entanglements. The narrative is filled with political intrigue, drama, and personal turmoil, offering a vivid perspective on life in Japan during the 1600s. The book is praised for its insightful portrayal of Japanese culture, historical accuracy, and captivating storytelling that immerses readers into the foreign world of feudal Japan.

    The author, James Clavell, weaves a complex and intricate plot that seamlessly blends elements of love, war, faith, passion, revenge, friendship, and honor. The book is lauded for its detailed cultural descriptions, engaging storytelling, and well-researched insight into Japanese history. Despite its length, Shogun is described as a captivating and emotional saga that transports readers to a time of conflict, ambition, and the struggle for power in a foreign land.

    Blackthorne was suddenly awake. For a moment he thought he was dreaming because he was ashore and the room unbelievable. It was small and very clean and covered with soft mats. He was lying on a thick...

  6. #6

    Geisha by Liza Dalby
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    Geisha by Liza Dalby is a unique exploration of the world of geisha, providing an objective and sympathetic view of life as a geisha from the 1930's to the mid 1970's. The book delves into the private life of a geisha, offering rarely heard stories and true traditions while educating the reader about the history and culture of geisha. Liza Dalby, an anthropologist, becomes her own test subject by portraying a geisha herself, providing personal accounts that are both insightful and captivating.

    Dalby's writing style combines detailed views of Japanese culture and mentality with personal experiences as a geisha, creating a narrative that is informative and engaging. The book goes beyond a mere recollection of her life as a geisha, offering a portal into a world that is shrouded in secrecy and providing a deeper understanding of the intricate part of Japanese society that geisha represent.


  7. #7

    The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet - Wayfarers by Becky Chambers
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    'The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet' by Becky Chambers follows the journey of the crew aboard the Wayfarer, a mixed species group traveling through space to a distant planet. The novel is a character-driven science fiction tale that delves into themes of relationships, personal growth, and diverse cultures. With a focus on the crew's interactions and daily lives, the story unfolds as a cozy and intimate exploration of the universe where humans are a minor part of the Galactic Commons. The narrative combines elements of space opera with episodic adventures, providing insightful glimpses into human and sapient nature.

    The writing style of the book is described as light and engaging, with a strong emphasis on character development and world-building. The author intricately introduces multiple alien species, each with distinct characteristics and cultural backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry of diverse perspectives and experiences. Despite the lack of traditional dramatic tension, the novel offers a heartfelt and enjoyable read that resonates with fans of character-driven narratives and space exploration.

    Living in space was anything but quiet. Grounders never expected that. For anyone who had grown up planetside, it took some time to get used to the clicks and hums of a ship, the ever-present ambiance...

  8. #8

    Snow Country by Yasunari Kawabata
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    'Snow Country' by Yasunari Kawabata is a novella set in Japan's mountainous snow country, telling the story of a wealthy Tokyo man, Shimamura, who visits a hot spring town and becomes entangled in a complicated relationship with Komako, a local geisha. The book explores themes of wasted beauty, existentialism, and the complexities of human emotion. Kawabata's writing style is described as poetic, with rich descriptions of time and place, and a dreamlike quality that intrigues readers.

    IN THE WINTER, cold winds blow down from Siberia, pick up moisture over the Japan Sea, and drop it as snow when they strike the mountains of Japan. The west coast of the main island of Japan is probab...

  9. #9

    The Memoirs of Cleopatra by Margaret George
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    'The Memoirs of Cleopatra' by Margaret George is a detailed historical fiction novel that delves into the life and loves of Cleopatra. The book is written from Cleopatra's first-person perspective, providing an intimate portrayal of the legendary queen's journey from her early memories to her tragic end. The novel captures the grandeur of ancient Egypt, political intrigues, battles, and personal relationships, offering a mix of factual events and fictional conversations with historical figures like Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.

    The book is praised for its meticulous research, vivid descriptions, and immersive storytelling that bring Cleopatra's world to life. Margaret George's writing style is commended for its ability to engage readers and provide a fresh perspective on a well-known historical figure. Despite its length, the novel is described as captivating, providing insights into Cleopatra's character, ambitions, and struggles, making it a compelling read for fans of historical fiction and ancient civilizations.

    Warmth. Wind. Dancing blue waters, and the sound of waves. I see, hear, feel them all still. I even taste the sting of the salt against my lips, where the fine, misty spray coats them. And closer even...

  10. #10

    Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier
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    Tracy Chevalier's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life of Griet, a young maid in the 17th century household of the famous painter Vermeer. The book explores Griet's interactions with Vermeer, his family, and the challenges she faces as she navigates her role as an assistant to the artist. The narrative provides insights into the art world of the time, the dynamics within the household, and Griet's personal growth and experiences.

    Chevalier's writing style in 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' is described as clear, spare, and cinematic, creating a richly imagined portrait of Griet and her relationship with Vermeer. The novel is praised for its ability to transport readers to a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the life of a young woman who inspired one of Vermeer's most famous paintings. Through Griet's perspective, the book provides a unique exploration of art, social dynamics, and personal growth during the 17th century in Delft.

    My mother did not tell me they were coming. Afterwards she said she did not want me to appear nervous. I was surprised, for I thought she knew me well. Strangers would think I was calm. I did not cry ...

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