The Living Reed

A Novel of Korea

Ranked #37 in Korean History

The Living Reed follows four generations of one family, the Kims, beginning with Il-han and his father, both advisors to the royal family in Korea. When Japan invades and the queen is killed, Il-han takes his family into hiding. In the ensuing years, he and his family take part in the secret war against the Japanese occupation. Pearl S. Buck's epic tells the history of Korea through the lives of one family. She paints an amazing portrait of the country, and makes us empathize with their struggle for sovereignty through her beautifully drawn characters. less

Similar Books

If you like The Living Reed, check out these similar top-rated books:


Learn: What makes Shortform summaries the best in the world?