BOOK BRIEF

The Mermaid from Jeju

Sumi Hahn
Guide cover placeholder

The Mermaid from Jeju

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Sumi Hahn

The Mermaid from Jeju

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction
Period
Asian Literature
Setting

Jeju Island, Korea • 1940s

Topic
Military & War

World History
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Mermaid from Jeju by Sumi Hahn is a historical fiction novel set in post-World War II Korea. It follows a young female diver from Jeju Island navigating personal and political upheavals. The narrative explores themes of family, tradition, and resilience, highlighting the protagonist’s journey amidst changing cultural and historical landscapes.

Mysterious

Emotional

Melancholic

Fantastical

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

4,342 ratings

70%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Mermaid from Jeju by Sumi Hahn captivates with a richly woven tale set in post-war Korea, blending myth and reality. Reviewers appreciate its lyrical prose and vivid depiction of Jeju's haenyeo divers. However, some critique its pacing and complex plot structure. Overall, it's praised for cultural depth and evocative storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Mermaid from Jeju?

A fan of lush historical fiction with a touch of magical realism and strong female protagonists would enjoy The Mermaid from Jeju by Sumi Hahn. Readers who appreciated the cultural depth and narrative style of Lisa See's The Island of Sea Women will find this novel captivating.

4.1

4,342 ratings

70%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction
Period
Asian Literature
Setting

Jeju Island, Korea • 1940s

Topic
Military & War

World History
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!