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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Pachinko summary
Min Jin Lee
Brief summary
Pachinko tells the powerful story of a Korean family living in Japan, spanning multiple generations and capturing the highs and lows of their lives. It explores themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of belonging.
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Pachinko
Summary of key ideas
Struggles of a Korean Family in Japan
In Pachinko by Min Jin Lee, we are introduced to Sunja, a young Korean girl who falls pregnant after a brief affair with a wealthy married man. When a kind, sickly minister, Isak, offers to marry her and take her to Japan, she accepts, leaving her homeland and family behind. In Japan, Sunja and Isak face discrimination and poverty as Koreans, but they work hard to build a life for themselves and their children.
Tragedy strikes when Isak dies, leaving Sunja to raise their two sons alone. She finds solace in the care and support of Isak's brother, Yoseb, and his wife, Kyunghee. The family struggles to make ends meet, and Sunja takes in boarders to help with the finances. Despite their hardships, they remain close-knit and supportive of each other.
Challenges of the Second Generation
The story then shifts to focus on Sunja's sons, Noa and Mozasu. Noa, the elder son, faces discrimination and bullying due to his mixed heritage. He is a bright student but feels the weight of being an outsider. Mozasu, on the other hand, takes up pachinko, a popular Japanese gambling game, to support the family. He becomes skilled at it and eventually opens his own pachinko parlor.
Meanwhile, Noa, feeling the burden of his identity, seeks to escape his Korean heritage by changing his name and moving to Nagasaki. He becomes involved with a group of radical students, but his life takes a tragic turn when he discovers his true parentage. Unable to cope with the revelation, he commits suicide, leaving his family devastated.
Survival and Resilience
As the story progresses, we see Mozasu's pachinko business flourish, providing financial stability for the family. Sunja, now a grandmother, continues to be the pillar of strength for her family, offering love and support in the face of adversity. Her younger son, Mozasu, marries a Korean woman, and they have a daughter, Solomon, who becomes the focus of the next generation.
Despite the discrimination and hardships they face as Koreans in Japan, the family members display resilience and determination. They work hard, support each other, and strive to create a better future for themselves and their children. The pachinko parlor, a symbol of their struggle and survival, becomes a source of pride and stability for the family.
Legacy and Identity
In the final part of Pachinko, we see Solomon, the granddaughter of Sunja, grappling with her identity as a Korean-Japanese. She faces prejudice and discrimination, both in Japan and Korea, as she tries to navigate her dual heritage. Despite the challenges, she remains connected to her roots, visiting Korea and learning about her family's history.
The novel ends with Solomon reflecting on her family's journey, acknowledging their sacrifices and resilience. Through their struggles, the family has preserved their identity and forged a sense of belonging, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Pachinko is a powerful exploration of identity, belonging, and the enduring strength of family ties.
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What is Pachinko about?
'Pachinko' is a book written by Min Jin Lee. It tells the story of a Korean family living in Japan, spanning four generations and addressing themes such as identity, love, and resilience. Through vivid storytelling, the novel offers a poignant exploration of the experiences of Koreans in Japan during the 20th century.
Pachinko Review
Pachinko (2017) by Min Jin Lee is a compelling saga that explores the lives of several generations of a Korean family in Japan. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With its rich characters and complex relationships, the book offers a deep and insightful portrayal of family bonds and the immigrant experience.
- Tackling themes of identity, love, and sacrifice, the story takes readers on an emotional journey, making it a truly gripping and thought-provoking read.
- The historical backdrop of post-WWII Japan provides a fascinating context for the characters' struggles and adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Who should read Pachinko?
- Readers who enjoy multi-generational family sagas
- Those interested in exploring the historical and cultural complexities of Korea and Japan
- People who appreciate richly developed characters and their personal journeys
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Pachinko FAQs
What is the main message of Pachinko?
The main message of Pachinko is a powerful exploration of identity, family, and the pursuit of a better life.
How long does it take to read Pachinko?
The reading time for Pachinko varies, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Pachinko a good book? Is it worth reading?
Pachinko is worth reading for its captivating storytelling and deep themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience.
Who is the author of Pachinko?
The author of Pachinko is Min Jin Lee.
What to read after Pachinko?
If you're wondering what to read next after Pachinko, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- How Children Succeed by Paul Tough
- Becoming Attached by Robert Karen
- All Joy and No Fun by Jennifer Senior
- The Opposite of Spoiled by Ron Lieber
- Minimalist Parenting by Christine Koh and Asha Dornfest
- Moms Mean Business by Erin Baebler and Lara Galloway
- Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua
- Screamfree Parenting by Hal Edward Runkel
- Getting to 50/50 by Sharon Meers and Joanna Strober
- The Drama of the Gifted Child by Alice Miller