Timecode of a Face

by Ruth Ozeki
Timecode of a Face cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Biography and Memoir
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 2202
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9781838855918
  • Publisher: Canongate Books
  • Published: 2022-03-24
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Timecode of a Face,' Ruth Ozeki challenges herself to spend three hours gazing into her own reflection, recording every thought and detail that arises. This introspective exercise leads her to ponder deep questions about identity, race, aging, and the nature of the self. Through a rich tapestry of personal history, professional experience, and Zen philosophy, Ozeki weaves a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of human existence. /n/n Ozeki's exploration is not just a personal journey but also a cultural one, as she incorporates Japanese traditions and her experiences as a writer to create a unique portrait of a life as told through a face. The book is a profound encounter with memory and the mirror, offering insights into self-doubt and ultimately, acceptance.

Reviews
Ben's Book Corner · Ben · 2024-02-01
engaging 4.20

Ozeki's challenge to stare at her reflection for three hours is both intriguing and moving. The reviewer finds her thoughts and feelings throughout the experience deeply engaging.

Ben from Ben's Book Corner finds Ruth Ozeki's challenge to stare at her reflection for three hours both intriguing and moving. He appreciates the depth of her thoughts and feelings throughout the experience, finding it a unique and engaging read. Ben highlights how Ozeki's personal reflections offer a profound look into self-awareness and the human condition. He particularly enjoys the way Ozeki's writing blends personal history with broader philosophical questions, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    Ozeki challenges herself to stare at her reflection for three hours. She details all her thoughts and feelings throughout these three hours.

    Her reflections offer a profound look into self-awareness and the human condition.

    This is a unique and engaging read that blends personal history with broader philosophical questions.

Amplify Bookstore · 2022-07-24
insightful 4.00

The book is insightful and simple, appealing to fans of Ozeki's fiction and those seeking self-reflection. It is praised for its depth and clarity.

Amplify Bookstore's review emphasizes the insightful and simple nature of Timecode of a Face, making it accessible yet profound. The reviewer appreciates how Ozeki's writing encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and experiences. They highlight the book's appeal to both fans of Ozeki's fiction and those new to her work, finding it a valuable addition to any bookshelf. The reviewer particularly enjoys the way Ozeki's personal reflections resonate with a broader audience.

Quick quotes

    Insightful but simple, this short work will appeal to fans of Ozeki's fiction, anyone who's trying to take the time to reflect on themselves, or simply looking for a beautifully written memoir.

    Ozeki's writing is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

    This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.

The Guardian · 2022-03-05
profound 4.50

The memoir is a profound exploration of identity and self-reflection, blending personal history with Zen philosophy. It offers a unique perspective on the human experience.

The Guardian's review highlights how Ruth Ozeki's memoir delves deep into themes of identity, self-reflection, and the human experience. The reviewer appreciates the blend of personal history and Zen philosophy, finding it both moving and insightful. They particularly enjoy how Ozeki's unique perspective challenges conventional narratives about aging and self-acceptance. The memoir is seen as a thoughtful and introspective journey that resonates with readers seeking deeper understanding and connection.

Quick quotes

    In this profound encounter with memory and the mirror, Ozeki weaves together personal history, professional experience, Zen philosophy, Japanese culture, and the universal experience of being human.

    Ozeki's writing is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

    This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.

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