Lovely historical fiction... *****stars
This is my favorite kind of book to relish - the sweeping and epic historical fiction novel. The formula is the same as always: plucky, determined woman manages to overcome tremendous obstacles to find love, fortune and happiness in a particular place and time. In this case, it's Honolulu after the turn of the century, circa 1914, when Korean born "Regret" escapes her home and arrives as a "picture bride" in the new territory of Hawaii.
The characters are stereotypical in terms of historical fiction novels: the heroine, who changes her name to Jin, is hardworking and determined to defy the odds, usually has a talent or skill that she manages to parlay into a display of incredible self sufficiency that is unusual for women to accomplish in a particular place and time. The supporting cast is all there to provide interesting background to Jin's struggle: the prostitute with the heart of gold, the kindly helpful schoolteacher who teaches her to read and encourages her desire for education, the supportive female friends, the abusive husband, the tyrant father - they're all introduced and play their roles in this novel. Despite the caricatures, the novel still works and provides a surprise or two along the way. It's a beautiful glimpse into the city that was Honolulu. The reader learns about the racism that was rampant there as well as the different industry and businesses that sprang up to support the massive waves of Asian immigration.
Similar in style and plot to other novels such as The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, and his own previous Moloka'i, the author focuses on the history, society and life as it was during that time period. As usual, all's well that ends well. Meticulously researched and lovingly rendered, Honolulu is a worthwhile novel that many readers will savor and discuss.
This book is suitable for young adults as well.
Denise Crawford
1 comment:
I don't think I would be too interested in this book. There seems to be a lot going on. I don't care for historical fiction as much as fiction that takes place now.
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