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Memoirs of a Geisha

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1997

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Book Brief

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Arthur Golden

Memoirs of a Geisha

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1997
Book Details
Pages

434

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kyoto, Japan • 1930s

Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

1000L

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Super Short Summary

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden follows the life of Sayuri, a girl sold to an okiya in Gion where she endures adversities to become a renowned geisha. Navigating rivalry, war, and complicated relationships, Sayuri's path intersects with kindness and betrayal, eventually leading her to achieve her dream of love and stability as she leaves her geisha life behind. The book addresses themes of exploitation and trauma.

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Mysterious

Romantic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

2,050,680 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden portrays the captivating life of a geisha with rich historical detail and evocative prose, earning praise for its immersive storytelling. However, some critics argue that it perpetuates stereotypes and inaccuracies about Japanese culture. Overall, the novel is seen as a compelling yet controversial read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Memoirs of a Geisha?

A reader who would enjoy Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden is typically interested in historical fiction, cultural immersion, and intricate character development. Fans of The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy and The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern may find this novel equally captivating for its vivid storytelling and rich, setting-based narrative.

4.4

2,050,680 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

434

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kyoto, Japan • 1930s

Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

1000L

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