Gai-Jin
Gai-Jin
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Brief
Beta1236
Novel • Fiction
Japan • 1860s
1994
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Gai-Jin by James Clavell follows a young British person navigating the complexities of 19th-century Japan amid cultural and political tensions. Set in Yokohama, the story explores the interactions between Westerners and Japanese individuals, focusing on trade relations, power struggles, and personal ambitions during this transformative period in history.
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Challenging
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
23,014 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
James Clavell’s Gai-Jin is praised for its rich historical detail and intricate depiction of 19th-century Japan, capturing the cultural clash between East and West. However, some readers find the pacing slow and the characters less compelling compared to Clavell's earlier works. The novel appeals to those interested in historical fiction but may challenge those looking for fast-paced narratives.
Who Should Read Gai-Jin?
Readers who enjoy Gai-Jin by James Clavell likely appreciate historical fiction rich in cultural depth and political intrigue. Fans of Clavell's Shōgun or Michener's Hawaii will find themselves absorbed in 1860s Japan, exploring the clash of East and West through detailed narratives and complex characters.
23,014 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
1236
Novel • Fiction
Japan • 1860s
1994
Adult
18+ years
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