Memoirs of a Geisha

Rating:
Summary: Captivating
Review: I could not put the book down. The author made me feel I was living the life of a Geshia. It was a captivating story.

Rating:
Summary: Brilliant!
Review: An extremely well written novel that is as captivating as it is brilliant. The characters and places are described in meticulous detail to bring the book to life and to transport the reader to another place and time. It seems like every superlative has been used by readers to describe Memoirs of a Geisha and they are all justified. I particularly enjoyed Memoirs of a Geisha because of the unique subject matter. Along with Fried Calamari, this is the most original book I have read in quite some time. Most of all this is a very rich novel that any reader will enjoy.

Rating:
Summary: A totally engrossing novel except for the cliched ending
Review: I found the book totally engrossing - a very interesting, descriptive story about the life of a Geisha. I stayed up all night to read it, but when I reached the end, I was totally disappointed. It was a typical fairy-tale ending where all the loose ends are tied together in one neat little, pat ending. Sigh.

Rating:
Summary: A beautiful moving picture painted as if I was there myself
Review: It was difficult for me to put this book down. I don't know if it was because "Memoirs of a Geisha" was so easy and facinating to read, or because it was so capitivating I wanted to see what happened next! Through this book I have gained a new level of respect for different human cultures. I already want to read it again.

Rating:
Summary: For historical and anthropological interest only
Review: A fascinating insight into the Geisha lifestyle and ethos, this work fails as a novel through one dimensional charcterisation and weak narrative. The rise of the heroine, through the Geisha hierarchy is revealing about that system, but not its main protagonist. The reader simply never feels this is a real peson -merely a useful instrument in Golden's quest to enlighten. One also feels gets the feeling that the author wants us to share his ambiguity about a intriguing, but immoral system of oppression. Part of the general trend to worship everything different from the Western paradigm. For "culture" freaks everywhere

Rating:
Summary: Fashion as an art form
Review: The author captures the art of japanese kimono in beautiful, rich, delicious description. As a fashion designer it was a pleasure reading Arthur's captivating portraiture of liquidy silk fabrics. It's no surprise that Madonna was influensed enough to adopt the Hatsumomo geisha look herself, (for a moment).

Rating:
Summary: Modern classic
Review: This is a modern classic. Subtle and eloquent,this book was masterfully written. It is hard to believe the author is not a woman, Japanese, and did not live in the early part of this century. Having read the book, you have visited another world--experienced another life. I must admit, I resisted reading the book because the topic was not compelling to me. Memoirs of a Geisha has reminded me that it is not the topic but the quality which makes a book compelling. Read it.

Rating:
Summary: An absolutely fantastic read- a real winner!!
Review: I thought this book was amazing. My only disappointment was the fact that it had to end. I've highly recommended it to everyone i know. I'm still stunned that the author was a white male-his beautiful, lyrical writing made me feel as if he truly was Sayuri. His poetic descriptions also made me want to visit Japan and befriend someone like Sayuri. I really feel that this is one of the best books I've ever read.

Rating:
Summary: A wonderful view of an curious ancient cultural lifestyle...
Review: I thought this book was enchanting. The description of Japanese culture was told with such beauty and metaphor, and I felt I could really see what was happening through the lovely pale eyes of Sayuri. This book had a calming effect on me, but not because it was dull. Far from that, this book was a wonderful story, tying the characters together in one way or another. I have to admit that I didn't particularly care for many of the male characters in the book, with the exception of the Chairman, but I do understand the paternalistic (see, I didn't say chauvanistic) era this book discusses. The description of the kimonos in the book were very detailed -- even those readers with no imagination should have no problem visualizing the beauty of the clothing, the hustle bustle of the environment, the atmosphere at the tea party. It's nice to read a book that is not replete with profanity or violence or sexuality, but is still able to convey sensuality. Highly recommended!

Rating:
Summary: Intimately written and keeps you entranced.
Review: I loved this book!!!! It kept me fascinated and until I read the back cover, I thought I was reading a true memoir. The descriptions flow like water and the similes are so real. A must read for someone who needs a break in the day to wind down and just enjoy!!