Helpful Score: 2
A very quick read. While I liked the storyline of the book...I felt that a little more detail and characterization could have made it better. It was a story that was told...I didnt feel as though I was a part of what was going on. For that it lost some points. The back of the book makes it out to be more then it really was. But. It is entirely possible that books that are considered to be of a certain literary quality are lost on me. :o)
Helpful Score: 2
Mesmerizing tale, almost a fable. Sensitively written and easily read in one evening. I enjoyed this book very much.
The story was different. Lacked detail, I thought. I'm wondering if I would have gotten more out of this one if I had read it with a book group or for a class. I always have trouble with translated works.
Helpful Score: 1
I read this book in one day and found the writing lyrical and consuming.
Helpful Score: 1
This book was alright, but overall I wasn't too impressed, and I am surprised to see it is a former international bestseller. It reminded me of a cross between one of Marguerite Duras' love story novelettes and Dai Sijie's Blazac and the Little Chinese Seamstress, but less original. I actually enjoyed reading more about the silkworm business during the 1860s versus the love story components in this short novel.
