BOOK BRIEF

The Gossamer Years: The Diary of a Noblewoman of Heian Japan

Michitsuna no Haha
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The Gossamer Years: The Diary of a Noblewoman of Heian Japan

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1989

Book Brief

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Michitsuna no Haha

The Gossamer Years: The Diary of a Noblewoman of Heian Japan

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1989
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

Japanese Literature

Biography
Period
Asian Literature
Setting

Heian Japan • 10th century

Topic
World History
Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1080L

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Super Short Summary

The Gossamer Years: The Diary of a Noblewoman of Heian Japan is a diary written by Michitsuna no Haha, detailing the life of a noblewoman during the Heian period. The text provides insights into the personal experiences, challenges, and emotions of an aristocratic woman navigating societal norms and her complex relationship with her husband.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Emotional

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.0

764 ratings

61%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Gossamer Years: The Diary of a Noblewoman of Heian Japan offers a rare glimpse into the private life of a Heian-era noblewoman, praised for its vivid emotional depth and historical insights. Its introspective nature and poetic prose enrich readers' understanding of the era, though some may find the diary's focus on personal grievances repetitive.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Gossamer Years: The Diary of a Noblewoman of Heian Japan?

A reader fascinated by Heian-era Japan, historical diaries, or Japanese literature will enjoy The Gossamer Years. Similar readers might appreciate The Pillow Book by Sei Shōnagon or The Tale of Genji by Murasaki Shikibu for their insights into court life and the intricate emotions of noblewomen.

4.0

764 ratings

61%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

Japanese Literature

Biography
Period
Asian Literature
Setting

Heian Japan • 10th century

Topic
World History
Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1080L

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