Review of The Abalone Ukulele

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Tejas Koli
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Re: Review of The Abalone Ukulele

Post by Tejas Koli »

"The Abalone Ukulele" by R. L. Crossland sounds like a gripping historical adventure! 📚 The intricate storyline and well-developed characters, especially Skookum Yi's journey of redemption, make it a compelling read. I appreciate the author's attention to detail and the glossary provided for unfamiliar terms, which enhanced the reading experience. While it took some time to settle into the story, I was hooked by the middle and couldn't put it down. The historical notes add an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative. Overall, a brilliant work of creative genius! 🌟📖
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Lorna Philip Enslin
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Post by Lorna Philip Enslin »

An enlightening and well-written review from Christabel Uzoamaka, thank you. The thought-provoking review and Amazon sample provided me with a good overview of what appears to be a blend of history and adventure, weaving Skookum Yi's quest for honour across America and Asia. The book is based on true events and will appeal to those who enjoy both genres of historical fiction and adventure.
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Post by Jay Lu »

I found your review of "The Abalone Ukulele" incredibly insightful, especially your appreciation for the intricate details R. L. Crossland wove into Yi's journey from Korea to the American continent. Your point about the book's complex writing style and the use of a glossary for better understanding resonated with me. It's rare to find a book that challenges readers while providing tools to navigate its depths. The historical accuracy and creative storytelling seem to make this book a must-read for fans of historical fiction, despite its initial learning curve. Your rating of 4 out of 4 highlights its worth for the dedicated reader.
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Black Indigo
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Post by Black Indigo »

I don't find myself reading this book, but the glossary will make it an easy read for readers of this book. Thank you for the review.
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Anu Anand
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Post by Anu Anand »

This seems like a thrilling historical adventure woven with intricate details and diverse cultures. The story of Skookum Yi's quest for honor is captivating. Congrats on BOTD!
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Post by Damian Keyes »

Even though this is not my normal reading material, I can applaud the author for crafting Yi's story and the journey he goes on. This international novel expands from different continents and coasts that add another level of authenticity to Yi's walk in life. Congrats to the author for having the BOTD.
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Marissa Michael
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Post by Marissa Michael »

Historical fiction based on true events. Who wouldn't like this? Those who are historical buffs particularly in Asian history will surely enjoy this riveting tale of honour and redemption. Congrats for being the #botd.
"Read in order to live." ~Gustave Flaubert
"Fiction reveals truths that reality obscures." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
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Sia_young
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Post by Sia_young »

I'll be honest, the short summary you have written in the beginning did not give general idea of the book. It's pretty confusing to me and took some time to interpret. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this book though. It's genuine and raw. I also liked the fact that author included glossary at the end to help readers with complicated words. This book is added to my TBR. Congratulations on BOTD!
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Post by Mercy Wambui Ndungu »

Wow, your detailed review of "The Abalone Ukulele" by R. L. Crossland truly brings out the depth and complexity of the story. Skookum Yi's journey from a warrior in the Mugwa to a courier man handling Korea's tribute to China is captivating. The twist of Japanese insurgents intercepting the tribute adds a layer of suspense and sets the stage for Yi's quest to regain his honor.
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Prajakta Dagare
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Post by Prajakta Dagare »

Thanks for a good review. Sampled a few pages, would like to read it. International novels always make an interesting reading experience.
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Post by Lydia Jeke »

This review kept me captivated and makes me want to know more about the events that took place for Yi to be able to clear his name.
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Ngozi Onyibor
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Post by Ngozi Onyibor »

Today's book is a historical fiction novel by R. L. Crossland. The story follows Yi, a Korean courier man who handles Korea's tribute to China, as he strives to regain his honor after losing the tribute under his command to Japanese insurgents.

It is an intricate novel that calls for the reader's full attention. However, the investment is worth it, as the reader is rewarded with a thrilling page-turner.
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Post by Tablito »

I wonder what ties Hobson (the US navy officer that helps Yi after Japan intercepts Korea's tribute to China that is in Yi's custody) to Korea.
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Post by Dan Polumbric »

It's nice to see a exciting historical fiction novel as a BOTD. I love this genre, so with this novel despite exploring a rare subject of turn-of the century Asia still seems like easy to get into. Page turner of a book. Thank you for the detailed review, will try my best to finish this book
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Post by Parvathi Menon »

The review is very compelling and definitely makes me want to read the book! Curious how Yi's story will span out and how the author will connect everything together.
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