In early-twentieth-century Korea, Najin Han, the privileged daughter of a calligrapher, longs to choose her own destiny. Smart and headstrong, she is encouraged by her mother—but her stern father is determined to maintain tradition, especially as the Japanese steadily gain control of his beloved country. When he seeks to marry Najin into an aristocratic family, her mother defies generations of obedient wives and instead sends her to serve in the king's court as a companion to a young princess. But the king is soon assassinated, and the centuries-old dynastic culture comes to its end. In the shadow of the dying monarchy, Najin begins a journey through increasing oppression that will forever change her world. As she desperately seeks to continue her education, will the unexpected love she finds along the way be enough to sustain her through the violence and subjugation her country continues to face? Spanning thirty years, The Calligrapher's Daughter is a richly drawn novel in the tradition of Lisa See and Amy Tan about a country torn between ancient customs and modern possibilities, a family ultimately united by love, and a woman who never gives up her search for freedom.
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"If I ever learned about Korea's history, I don't remember it. I've heard of the Korean War, but nothing before that. What a life this lady lead. It made me feel spoiled and selfish. I was surprised how many things are similar to the Japanese women. They still cover their mouths when they laugh and are still less important than a man or his wants. Things changed a lot during her lifetime, but I'm glad I don't have to be a lesser being to a man. Wow, lots of food for thought." — Julie (4 out of 5 stars)
"If I ever learned about Korea's history, I don't remember it. I've heard of the Korean War, but nothing before that. What a life this lady lead. It made me feel spoiled and selfish. I was surprised how many things are similar to the Japanese women. They still cover their mouths when they laugh and are still less important than a man or his wants. Things changed a lot during her lifetime, but I'm glad I don't have to be a lesser being to a man. Wow, lots of food for thought."
Raver's throaty richness...fits the royalty of the Korean court, where Najin's mother sends her to escape an arranged marriage.
" Beautiful writing. Lets the reader in on historical events that most Americans are not aware of. I love it when I can learn history through the eyes of a character I am attached to. "
" This tale of a young girl coming of age in Korea during the time of the revolution was a good history lesson. I learned a lot and once again am very grateful to live in this time and place!!! It is a very interesting picture of the role of women in Korea. "
" This is a MUST read. "
" It took me a long time to read this but it was really good. "
" Just when I was beginning to lose my footing, this novel helped me remember my origins... it touches memories, traditions and nostalgia buried deep inside me. "
" I felt like this book drug on longer than was necessary. It was ok but not something I would read again. "
" Wonderful look at the culture of Korea in that era. It also had a spiritually uplifting message about facing trials. "
" Read this one for my book club, did not love it, it had potential, good idea, but fell flat. "
" Interesting story of a young woman progressing through life in Korea during the early 1900s, through the war, and the challenges of life she goes through. I find it interesting to read about the customs of other countries. "
" Liked it. Reading it once is enough. "
" This book is slow reading but totally worth it. "
" beautiful story. well written. heart-wrenching. I could never have lived through Najin's life, which just makes this historical fiction all the more amazing. "
" Very well written book with amazing story line with accurate historical background of Korean during 1912 to 1945. Anyone interested in Korea will enjoy this book. "
" It had a good story, but I just couldn't finish it. I might try it again sometime, maybe I just wasn't in the mood for this type of story right now. "
" what an historical experience with a beautiful story entwined.just marvelous to read "
" I enjoyed this book. Other than the very beginning, I found the pace and plot very suitable to a relaxing and interesting read. I also really enjoy historical fiction, and this was a history that I knew nothing about. I'd recommend it. "
" Interesting to learn of a different culture. "
" Started out really good, but became rather fantastical as the book went on, and the main character lost her appeal as she became a simple pawn in the lives of men around her. "
" It was interesting because it took place in Korea, and I didn't know that much about Korea. It takes place during the Japanese occupation of Korea leading up to World War II. It showed how women can be strong even when their roles are limited. It also shows the value of patience. "
" I really enjoyed the plot and the masterful description of life in Korea in the late 1800's and early 1900's. I felt like the action dragged a bit and that some of the descriptive passages were slow-moving or I would have given the book a 4 star rating. "
" Really, really enjoyed this book! Wish there were more from this author, so I look forward to the future! "
" Liked the story, but very slow paced. Beautiful historical detail. "
" It's a good story, but when I find myself looking for other books to read instead, I know it's time to pack it in. "
Eugenia Kim is the daughter of Korean immigrant parents who came to America shortly after the Pacific War. She has published short stories and essays in journals and anthologies, including Echoes upon Echoes: New Korean American Writings, and is an MFA graduate of Bennington College. She lives in Washington, DC, with her husband and son.
Lorna Raver, named one of AudioFile magazine’s Best Voices of the Year, has received numerous Audie Award nominations and many AudioFile Earphones Awards. She has appeared on stage in New York, Los Angeles, and regional theaters around the country. Among her many television credits are NYPD Blue, Judging Amy, Boston Legal, ER, and Star Trek. She starred in director Sam Raimi’s film Drag Me to Hell.
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