The Island of Sea Women

'Beautifully rendered' -Jodi Picoult

By: Lisa See

Narrated by: Jennifer Lim

A Simon & Schuster audiobook. Simon & Schuster has a great book for every listener.

Critic reviews

'Lisa See excels at mining the intersection of family, friendship and history... This novel spans wars and generations, but at its heart is a beautifully rendered story of two women whose individual choices become inextricably tangled' (Jodi Picoult)

'I was spellbound the moment I entered the vivid and little-known world of the diving women of Jeju... No one writes about female friendship, the dark and the light of it, with more insight and depth than Lisa See' (Sue Monk Kidd, author of The Secret Life of Bees)

'For centuries, women on Korea’s Jeju island have been free-diving into the sea, a practice explored through this fictionalized story of two friends who struggle to stay close amid war, family rivalries, and a shifting cultural landscape. It’s riveting, historical, and heartbreaking all at once’

loyalty and history

The book was a little too long and would have been improved by some efiting

Culturally rich and complex

This story explores the depth of human existence, the complexity of friendship marriage and kinship. It is a tragedy, celebrates cultural wisdom and tradition and deeply poignant.

Captivating Tale of Jeju’s Resilient Haenyeo

The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See is a captivating, multi-generational journey that brings the history and culture of Jeju Island and its remarkable haenyeo divers to life. Through vivid storytelling, I gained a deep appreciation for the resilience of these women and their community. While some sections may feel a bit long, as critics note, the immersive experience is well worth it. Highly recommended for anyone interested in Korean history and unique cultural perspectives.

inspiring story, about friendship, struggles, love

inspiring story, about friendship, struggles and love; historical facts and political influences throughout our lives

I loved this book

Heartbreaking and awe inspiring. Beautiful story about a beautiful place. I was instantly transported into the waters around Jeju Island. The brutality of the Korean government and military against their own people was shocking.