indalauryn 's review for:

Geisha: A Life by Mineko Iwasaki

5.0

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This book sat on my shelf literally for years. I forget exactly why I bought it, but I only got around to it a couple of weeks ago. I had some trouble getting into it, but I couldn't put it down for the few 100 pages or so. Iwasaki's story is compelling and her honesty about her life is awesome. The part memoir and part lesson in the true life of a geisha, not what those outside the culture thinks it is. I think the reason it took me a while to get into the book is because I was more compelled by Iwasaki's later life when she comes of age and begins to see the harsh realities of life around her. Finding out she was something of a badass is also a plus. This is definitely recommended reading and a great memoir for those who love this genre.