Pachinko
Min Jin Lee · 2017
About this book
A multigenerational saga of a Korean family living in Japan, spanning the 20th century. It reveals the painful history of Zainichi Koreans and the themes of discrimination, identity, and perseverance that define the Korean diaspora experience.
Why read this for language learning
Though written by a Korean-American author, this historical saga is deeply rooted in Korean history and culture, particularly the experience of Koreans in Japan. Its accessible yet rich Korean translation (if reading the Korean version) provides intermediate learners with extensive vocabulary related to family, history, and social discrimination. It offers profound cultural insights into the Zainichi Korean experience, making it invaluable for understanding a significant aspect of Korean identity and history. The narrative is compelling and expansive.
Vocabulary you will encounter
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