The Pearl Diver : A Novel

Rating:
Summary: Lyrical
Review: This is one of the most hauntingly beautiful books I have read. Talarigo's voice is fresh, unique and with bold simple strokes creates a rich tapestry of lives with all their strengths, frailities but above all it's their basic humanity that touches one deeply. It's a sad to think that all one reader got out of the book was "It's a little gross," I wonder why they even felt compelled to write such a comment. I read the galley several months ago and could not wait for it's actual release so that I could share this novel with friends. This is the loveliest book you will read this summer and one that will stay with you for a long time.

Rating:
Summary: Mesmerizing
Review: What a beautiful book.
The main character, a strong young woman who is just learning the arduous trade of a Pearl Diver finds spots on her arm that can only be leprosy. She is disowned, and banished to a leprosorium. Forced to chose a new identity, as "Miss Fuji" she cares for other more severely affected patients.
The bulk of the story is told from her perspective, as she looks through objects found in the closed leprosorium.
The writing is beautiful, and instantly transports you to another world.
Every word is carefully, sparely placed.
The author's powers of description, and ability to create mood are remarkable.
Savor reading this, do not skim.
Amazing that this is a first novel!
I am recommending this to everyone I know, and plan to discuss this with my book clubs.

This book feels inspired by one of my favorite books of all time, The Samurai's Garden by Gail Tsukiyama.