The Island of Sea Women

by Lisa See
The Island of Sea Women cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Historical Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 6635
  • Added: 2025-11-27
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781471183829
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2019-03-05
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Island of Sea Women is a beautifully written novel that explores the deep bond between two girls, Mi-ja and Young-sook, who grow up on the Korean island of Jeju. As they join the village's all-female diving collective, they face the excitement and danger of their new lives. The story spans decades, from the 1930s under Japanese colonialism to the Korean War and beyond, showcasing the resilience and strength of the haenyeo, the female divers of Jeju. The novel is a testament to the power of female friendship and the larger historical forces that shape their lives. Lisa See's novel is not just a story of friendship but also a vivid portrayal of a unique cultural practice and the dramatic history that surrounds it. The haenyeo, who dive deep into the sea to gather seafood, are at the heart of this narrative. The book is enriched with historical details and cultural insights, making it a compelling read that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of Korean history.

Reviews
The Resting Willow · 2025-04-21
inspiring 4.50

The novel is a powerful exploration of female friendship and resilience in the face of historical turmoil. The author's storytelling is both captivating and educational.

The reviewer found the novel to be a compelling blend of historical fiction and personal drama. They were particularly impressed by the way the author handled the complex relationships between the characters, especially the enduring friendship between Young-sook and Mi-ja. The reviewer also appreciated the educational aspect of the book, which shed light on the often overlooked history of Jeju Island and the haenyeo divers. They noted that the book's exploration of themes like war, betrayal, and forgiveness added depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    The Island of Sea Women is a masterclass in weaving personal stories with historical events.

    The friendship between Young-sook and Mi-ja is a beacon of hope and resilience in a tumultuous world.

    Lisa See's prose is both evocative and informative, making the reader feel deeply connected to the characters and their struggles.

Nolite Thoughts · 2024-02-13
moving 4.50

The book offers profound insights into womanhood, resilience, and the joy of living, making it a deeply moving read. It stands out for its emotional depth and cultural richness.

This reviewer found the book to be incredibly moving, highlighting its exploration of womanhood, resilience, and the joy of living. They appreciated the cultural richness and the emotional depth of the story, making it a standout read. The reviewer also noted that the book has taught them more about these themes than any other they have read before. The story's setting and the characters' experiences are vividly brought to life, making it a memorable and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    This book has taught me more about womanhood, resilience, joy and gratitude of living, than any other I have read before.

    The Island of Sea Women is a deeply moving and culturally rich novel.

    The emotional depth and cultural richness make this book a standout read.

Carpe Librum · 2023-12-20
recommended 4.00

The novel is recommended for readers who enjoy historical fiction with detailed cultural knowledge. It is praised for its vivid historical and cultural details.

This reviewer recommends the book for those who enjoy historical fiction, particularly if they appreciate detailed cultural knowledge. They praised the vivid historical and cultural details that bring the story to life. The reviewer also noted that the book's slow pace does not shy away from conflict, making it a compelling read. The story's setting and the characters' experiences are vividly brought to life, making it a memorable and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See is recommended for readers who enjoy their historical fiction supported by a detailed knowledge of the culture.

    Where See excels is in the vivid historical and cultural detail she brings to the story.

    The pace is slow but doesn't shy away from conflict.

Gilmore Guide to Books · Catherine · 2019-05-06
emotional 4.50

The book is a poignant tale of love, loss, and the unbreakable bonds between women. The historical backdrop adds a layer of richness to the story.

Catherine was deeply affected by the emotional journey of the characters, particularly the way their lives were shaped by the historical events on Jeju Island. She praised the author's ability to create a vivid and immersive setting, making the reader feel as though they were part of the community of haenyeo divers. Catherine also noted that the book's exploration of themes like motherhood, sacrifice, and forgiveness resonated deeply with her. She found the ending to be particularly moving and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact.

Quick quotes

    The Island of Sea Women is a beautifully written exploration of the unbreakable bonds between women.

    Lisa See's portrayal of Jeju Island and its haenyeo divers is both vivid and authentic.

    The emotional depth and historical richness of this novel make it a standout read.

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