Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

Pachinko is a heartwarming historical fiction novel that follows a Korean family navigating life in Japan. It begins in the early 1900s when Sunja, the daughter, is saved by a wealthy minister who brings her to Japan.

This book was especially interesting to me as it explored the complex relationship between Korea and Japan. Having lived in Tokyo for seven years, I found it shocking to see the extent of discrimination the characters faced in Japan. Their struggles reminded me that, even today, Japanese society can be unwelcoming to foreigners, reflecting lingering attitudes from the past.

At the same time, Pachinko taught me a lot about family, culture, and identity. It showed how hardship can strengthen familial bonds and deepen one’s sense of self.

This novel is definitely not an easy read, but it’s the kind that stays with you—especially if you’ve ever felt confused about identity, culture, and belonging.