The Island of Sea Women is set on a small island off the coast of Korea called Jeju Island. On this island the women are the bread winners diving for abalone, conch, sea urchin, and octopus up to 15 meters down into the ocean. But, this island has been claimed by many different countries as theirs: Japan, Korea, China, and at one time it was occupied by the United States. This story follows one woman, Young-sook through her career as a diver. As her life continues she is caught up in the aftermath of World War One, World War Two, and through the Korean War and many political uprisings on Jeju Island. This book is rich with history and culture, a must read.
Review by Leslie B.
