Rating: 
Summary: I WAS SORRY TO SEE IT END
Review: I am grateful that my book club chose this book - otherwise, I might never have. I didn't have any particular interest in Japan or in geishas, and the book's title sounded to me like a cheap novel.But, I must say that I was overwhelmed by this book. I found it touching, fascinating, and a very enjoyable read. My only real criticism was the hasty exit of the character, Hatsumomo. She was such a prominent figure throughout most of the novel that I felt she had been given short shrift at the end. I expected some type of major confrontation between her and Sayuri, and when that didn't happen, I was a bit disappointed. Also, I would have liked more information on Satsu, Sayuri's sister. I agree too with some of the other criticisms printed here. The novel did end rather abruptly, racing through the last years of her life with breakneck speed. I do not want to reveal what eventually happened between Sayuri and the Chairman (as I know some people read these reviews before reading the novel!), but there was a part of me that wanted something more for the two of them, and a part of me that wanted something less. I found the writing to be excellent. The tone was conversational and warm. And Golden offered a great many philosophical insights that I found myself reading again and again. Anyway, to sum it up, I enjoyed this novel immensely and am very very happy that I read it.
Rating:
Summary: An absolutely terrific account of a secret part of Japan
Review: This was one of the best books I have ever read. I agree with the other poster who mentioned that this book will still be read and enjoyed in 50 years. Ignore the 1 and 2 star posts here: they are either politically-correct or never actually read the book (especially the person who works in the bookstore and tells people not to read the book-give me a break). I have lived in Japan and have an extensive academic as well as business background on many things Japanese; this book is as good as it gets for both lovers of Japan and lovers of excellent literature. I agree the ending is a bit forced (as done Golden in his Amazon.com interview), but cut him some slack: he writes in convincing first-person female for a Japanese woman from another era and social class. This book is not at all pornographic or Harlequinish-I feel bad that I have to defend it. The story was great and the Japanese expressions brought great beauty to the story. Buy it and you won't be able to put it down.
Rating:
Summary: storytelling at its best
Review: It's been a long while since I've been so entranced by a book. Golden spent close to a decade writing this novel, and the quality of his research clearly shows in his attention to details and the accuracy of the historical background. Seldom have readers been completely transported to another world with such ease, and made to experience so intimately the triumphs and trials of a protagonist. The writing of the first three quarters of the book is exquisite and tightly controlled. My only complaint is that the ending tends to be a little pat, and perhaps even contrived. While we celebrate with Sayuri her life and achievements, the neat ending strikes one as being too perfect, and hence a little vacuous and anti-climactic. But what an excellent read!
Rating:
Summary: Transporting Experience
Review: I would take issue with those (thankfully few) reviewers on this site who found so much fault with this book. While it is true the ending IS a bit forced, the book is supposed to be a MEMOIR written in HER voice, HER experience; if it were technically perfect in that sense, would it seem so authentic? So RARE to have such an engrossing female presence to experience. I believe this book will still be read and enjoyed in 50 years.
Rating:
Summary: Memoirs. . .A Cultural Journey
Review: Memoirs of a Geisha is by far one of the best novels I have read this year. With vivid imagery and clear narration it flows along at a swift pace. I feel as though Sayuri has led me on a tour of Kyoto and the culture of the Geisha.
Rating:
Summary: You Got to Read This!!!!!
Review: This book was stunning...unbelievable,,,it touched my heart and i must tell you i could barely put it down!!!! It made me cry, and it made me laugh...all I have to say is that there should be more books like this one about the lives of a giesha...truly amazing..............
Rating:
Summary: Fantastic!!
Review: I had no interest in reading this book until I read the reviews at this site! Thank you! This is the best book I've read in years. I didn't want it to end! It is beautifully written, and Mr. Golden does an amazing job developing Sayuri's character as she grows from a poor, innocent child to a woman with depth and substance. Books I've since picked up do not compare. READ THIS BOOK!!!
Rating:
Summary: Excellent Read
Review: I read "Geisha" while on vacation. While unlike some people I may not work in a bookstore but I am an avid reader. I found the book to be a good brief history of the geisha's. It is something I knew very little about and was eager to learn. I read the review for it in people magazine and I must say I enjoyed it. The whole story was fascinating and a joy to read.
Rating:
Summary: Great Book
Review: I loved reading about the Geisha in the 30's and 40's. I think I would rather be a Geisha than a Japanese wife of that time period. Is it better today? What would a Geisha think about Goldman's portrayal?
Rating:
Summary: Couldn't Put It Down!!!!
Review: I have never been a big reader, however recently, I am doing my best to find books that will keep me interested. I have to say, this book was amazing. It was all I could think of until I finished and I'm still thinking about it. Color-fully written! A treasure!!!!
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