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The Pillow Book

By Sei Shonagon
Penguin Classics
0.0 (0 reviews)
4.01 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 9,697 ratings, 1,133 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In The Pillow Book by Sei Shonagon, the author provides an intimate glimpse into the court life of Japan's Heian period through a series of personal reflections, anecdotes, and lists. As a lady-in-waiting, Shonagon records her observations of the elegant and sometimes capricious world around her, offering insights into the beauty and intricacies of this sophisticated society. Written with wit and sensitivity, the work captures her contemplations and experiences in a blend of poetry, diary entries, and musings.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$2600
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you appreciate historical insights into Japanese court life from a unique female perspective. Its rich tapestry of observations, poetry, and anecdotes offers an intimate glimpse into the Heian era's cultural and social nuances. Ideal for those intrigued by arts, culture, and personal reflections from times past.

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A translation of the idiosyncratic diary of a C10 court lady in Heian Japan. Along with the "Tale of Genji", it is one of the major Japanese classics.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

New translation of a book that has sold over 100,000 in its previous version.

A new translation of the idiosyncratic diary of a 10th-century court lady in Heian Japan. Along with the Tale of Genji, The Pillow Book is one of the major Japanese classics.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Pillow Book by Sei Shonagon often receives praise for its vivid portrayal of court life in Heian-era Japan. Reviewers commend its insightful observations, wit, and the author's unique voice, which bring historical context and personal reflections to life. Critics appreciate its blend of personal musings, lists, and anecdotes, offering a timeless glimpse into the elegance and complexities of Japanese aristocracy.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140448061

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 30 November 2006

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Translated by Meredith McKinney
  • Notes by Meredith McKinney

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 23.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 293g

Pages: 400

Collections

Arts & Culture Best Sellers at Book Hero In Stock Arts & Culture Books In Stock Books New Zealand's Best Selling Books Non-Fiction Penguin Black Classics Penguin Books Penguin Classics Penguin Classics: Arts & Culture Penguin Classics: Poetry Poetry Sei Shonagon

About the Author

Meredith McKinney is a translator of Japanese literature, both contemporary and classical. She lived in Japan for twenty years and currently lives in Braidwood, New South Wales. Meredith McKinney is a translator of Japanese literature, both contemporary and classical. She lived in Japan for twenty years and currently lives in Braidwood, New South Wales.

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