The Commoner: A Novel
by John Burnham Schwartz
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Book Reviews of The Commoner: A Novel
Book Review: Unequivocal Praise
Summary: 5 Stars
I've read the book. It's splendid. This story is told in the voice of its main character, Haruko, and manages remarkable restraint as well as lavish specificity. Here is a life portrayed in such meaningful detail that the world is made palpable without sacrificing dramatic pulse. The author's sure hand effects such an authority over place, time, cultural traditions and social mores that one believes entirely every shift and stance in Haruko's journey of the heart.Book Review: Best work so far by a favorite writer
Summary: 5 Stars
I've read all of John Burnham Schwartz's books, and this one is (as one reads on many a book jacket, but it's true) his finest yet. It's hard to imagine a taller order than taking on the emotional life of the Crown Princess. Schwartz approaches the task with subtlety and enormous empathy; his heroine is a fully realized, heart-breakingly real character. This is a haunting, beautiful novel. Highly recommended.Book Review: A Polished Jewel
Summary: 5 Stars
I was aware of some of the controversies surrounding the Japanese royal household before picking up The Commoner, but nothing could have prepared me for the way this beautifully written book immersed me in a world of such human courage and pain. Schwartz's ability to make this rarified world come alive is completely convincing. I did not want the book to end. It is a remarkable achievement.Book Review: Splendid!
Summary: 5 Stars
This is one of the most beautiful and moving books I've read in years. To be given such witness to the practice of ancient nobility is a rare gift. And to be given that gift in the form of an enticing and sympathetic main character is all the more rare and wonderful. I thoroughly enjoyed every page. This is a must read.Book Review: Bravo!
Summary: 5 Stars
I didn't think that I'd ever find a story that touched me the way "A Thousand Splendid Sun's" did, but "The Commoner" has! What a beautifully written story with characters that will stay with you long after you've finished this book.
This one's a keeper and I highly recommend it.