Rating: 
Summary: A gaze into early 20th century Japan
Review: There was so much hype surrounding this book that I almost didn't read it, being afraid MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA would be worse than I expected. Surprisingly this book did not let me down, it was literally lyrical, and I mean it. A gaze into the cultures of early 20th century Japan.
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Summary: A story of art plainly told.
Review: It is hard to express in the same simple tone the magnificence of this book. Golden has captured a culture I think I know well better than anyone since Clavell's Shogun, Murasaki or Reischauer. However, he has done this without overt drama, ploys, or other distractions. Sayuri's single line of narrative tells us more through its plainness, in the best sense of the word, than any number of dramatized tales. For his courage to distill the story to this single brush stroke across a wonderful piece of rice paper, Golden deserves not only our praise but also our respect. In the end, I was not sure whether I had consumed this book or it me; I was emotionally overwhelmed.
Rating: 
Summary: Good and memorable, but the earth didn't move
Review: So many people from so many walks of life rhapsodized about this book that I'm afraid it was overhyped by the time I got to it. Don't get me wrong, it's a good book. The fact that this book was written, not by an Asian woman as it pretends to be, but by a white man is astonishing. His knowledge of Asian culture and scholarship will make you feel as though you've been to Japan. I think I may have to agree with the other reviewers who said that the books sense of Asian reserve may be what kept it from being a deeply emotional ead.
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Summary: Can't put it down!
Review: The book first caught my attention when I saw a young Asian woman reading it on the subway. That same evening I went a a friend's apartment and saw the book on her shelf. When I told her I had just seen someone reading it on the train, she said, "That's it! It's a perfect subway read! A mixture of Sideny Sheldon and history books" I took the book and didn't think much of it. Sidney Sheldon is not among my favorite writers and I am by no means an expert in Japanese culture. What a surprise! My subway read turned out to be much more intriguing and fascinating than I could have ever thought. The bad news is that I'll be done with the book in 4 days and will have to look for another book to read on my way to work! Stayed up until 3 AM last night because I couldn't put this book down. Brought it to the office, so I can read another chapter whenever I get a chance. Have already recommended Memoirs of a Geisha to most of my friends! Beautifully written, easy to read! Hard to believe it's fiction!
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Summary: Wonderfully and Tastefully Told!!!
Review: I borrowed this book on Saturday and finished it Sunday! While I do have to agree that the ending almost seemed like a tack-on, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The author has a marvelous way of describing the sights and feelings of Sayuri in such a way that you really understand her. Yet, the descriptions aren't so refined and perfect that they aren't believable as her actual thoughts. And I give the author credit for, while he had to describe some intimate encounters, he did so with a discreetness I wish more authors (and Hollywood) would learn. A mark of a fine author who doesn't have to depend upon smut.I shall certainly look for more works by Mr. Golden.
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Summary: I was drawn into "Memoirs of a Geisha" from the first page.
Review: I had to keep reminding myself that "Memoirs of a Geisha" was a work of fiction. I have receintly become interested in the romantic Geisha of Japan and have "read-up" on real Geisha history. Though I am far from learned on the subject, all I read about the fictional Chiyo and her life as a Geisha within Memoirs pages rang true to my prior historic readings. Anyone who has ever wondered about this exotic world and loves a good authentic ficton will enjoy this work.
Rating:
Summary: Had some interesting moments, certainly worth reading.
Review: The main character was likeable, and you do care about her, but the ending is a bit hollywoodish. I did enjoy it, although it's not what I expected. I counted on more emotion and detail in this geisha's life. All the same, I would recommend it.
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Summary: An amazing look at the life of a geisha
Review: This book written by a man about the thoughts of a woman is superbly done. The word pictures demonstrate great skill in communication. I loved this book and also think it is a great tool for multicultural education.
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Summary: A Modern Classic!
Review: Memoirs of a Geisha is a modern classic, certain to stand the test of time. This is a novel that will be enjoyed for generations to come. I really loved this book and highly recommend it. I would also like to thank the reader from California for recommending Fried Calamari.
Rating:
Summary: An engrossing and fascinating look at Japanese culture
Review: This book elucidates a culture and custom few Westerners can understand. I was captivated and actually finished the book with an unexpected respect for these women who found a significant place in a social hierarchy that offered little to women. The story is engrossing - a must-read!
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