I love to learn things from the books I read, and this book taught me so much— not only about the South Korean island Jeju, its matrifocal society of haenyeo (women divers), and its culture and traditions, but also about friendship, the horrors of war, loyalty, and grief. The Island of Sea Women is vividly imagined and deeply researched, which is apparent as we follow “sisters of the heart” Young-sook and Mi-ja from their girlhood in the 1930s to 2008 through the dramatic events—both personal and historical—that shape their lives and test their relationship. The story is at turns beautiful, brutal, absorbing, and raw. Females are strong as hell.
—Anika, Phinney Books, Seattle, WA
Travel the world from your reading spot. Check the website and social media of your favorite bookstore or call if you want to order. Many stores are closed for browsing but are delivering locally, shipping, or doing pick-up. Many stores also have ebook and audiobook options to download through their websites. You can read what Phinney Books is doing here. If you’re not sure what you want and your store’s phone lines are overwhelmed so you can’t chat in person with your favorite bookseller, you can browse staff favorites from around the region by going through our archive of Face Outs.
There’s no reason to be bored just because you’re being safe and staying inside!