Let’s talk about Pachinko.

There are so many things to love about this book. From a historical context, it’s fascinating. I was already aware of the history between Korea and Japan, and the impacts that still hold to this day. But I was curious to know more. As a recommendation from a Korean friend to find a better understanding of this relationship between the two nations, I can say that it did not disappoint. It’s richly detailed, and Min Jin Lee certainly knows how to pull you into another time and place.

**Warning: SPOILERS ahead!**


What I did not like about this book is that while there is so much history and familial details to get lost in, you’re never given enough time with any one character to really develop a connection. It’s almost as though all the things I love about the book, smother the opportunity for character development. Because a story like this isn’t just about the political and historical climate of those eras—it’s supposed to be about the lives of those in the thick of it. And yet just when you’re getting a feel for a character, the chapter literally ends with their death. And this happens again and again. True to life? Perhaps. But when I read, I want to actually care about the characters, and I was never given the chance to do that.

Is it worth reading? Absolutely! But read it to broaden your knowledge of a tempestuous relationship between two nations, because those are the two characters that truly rule this story.

Side note: I’ve said this maybe five times in my life, but the tv adaptation of Pachinko is amazing and I daresay, better than the book. All the flaws that I struggled with in the book were handled beautifully. The characters are nuanced and richly developed, and cinematically it’s just stunning. Check it out on Apple TV.