Memoirs of a Geisha

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Summary: A Novel Worthy of Being Directed by Spielberg
Review: Right after I finished reading this book, I learned that Steven Spielberg would be directing the movie. The prospect of seeing the Geishas' world brought to life by this director in particular is one I greatly anticipate. This bittersweet story, along with the sumptous descriptions of people, places, and clothing make this novel ripe for translation into the visual medium. I urge everyone to read this addictive novel before the academy awards are won.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful book (except for the ending)
Review: This was a truly captivating book - Golden obviously was thorough in both his research and also the Japanese use of language. The descriptions in the book really give us insight into both pre-war Japan and also a different cultural mindset. Although Amy Tan writes about the Chinese and Chinese-American culture, this book reminded me a bit of her work, as I had the same sense of learning about a woman's role in Asian culture. The main flaw with this book is the trite ending - the love of her life, which is someone she met in passing as a girl, is the least developed character and unworthy of Sayuri. The novel deserved a less story-book ending, after such a realistic portrayal of the Geisha lifestyle.

Rating:
Summary: A fascinating and sensitively-told story
Review: This story fascinated me, especially the portions concerned with the training and rituals of the geisha world. It's a very involved society, with intricate rules for etiquette. The conflict between Sayuri and her rival keeps the reader immersed in the story.

Rating:
Summary: Bravo!
Review: This was such a great book! I don't know if this is really how geishas lived, but it is a wonderful story. I felt like I was a geisha myself, going through all the rituals and training. It is hard to believe that this book was written by a man because he seems to get into the inner pysche of women. I was sorry when I finished because I just kept wanting to read more.

Rating:
Summary: Well written but conventional ending.
Review: This is a well written book with an interesting description of life in Japan at that time. However, the lack of moral reflection on a life of prostitution (a high class call girl is still a prostitute) offends me. The complete acceptance of the validity of men taking mistresses and women living to serve men make it little more than a politically correct exhaltation of the worst in the Japanese culture.

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Summary: Only one word can describe this book: BEAUTIFUL
Review: This book is absolutley wonderful. I can not believe that these are fictional characters. I have one request for Mr. Golden- MORE PLEASE!

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Summary: Best book I've read in ages!
Review: I highly recommend this book. It is definitely NOT another boring memoir. This is really different. The life of Sayuri (Chiyo) will keep you hooked to the book. It is a pleasant and unforgettable read!

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Summary: Very interesting, unusual book
Review: I found this to be a really different book. I am not usually interested in "memoir" style books but this was excellent. I highly recommend it.

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Summary: This book takes you to another world
Review: I had to keep checking back to be sure that this book wasn't written by a real Kyoto geisha. I finished it in two days and would reccomend it to anyone!

Rating:
Summary: When words become art
Review: Memoirs of a Geisha is by far the best novel I have ever read. Reading Mr. Golden's words transported me to Japan- rather, to a Japanese painting. As much as it is highly descriptive, like a painting done with very fine brushstrokes, Memoirs of a Geisha is written in a subtle, delicate style simultaneously peaceful and riveting. I have recommended the book to three people, all of whom have thanked me profusely! Kore wa ichiban no hon desu, Golden-san. Domo arigato gozaimashita.