The Ginseng Hunter: A Novel

A beautifully written, heart wrenching story of interwoven lives across borders and boundaries.

Several stories within one, as the characters' lives intersect each other. The main character's personal growth, evidenced by his extending mercy to an enemy, redeems the multitude of sadness in the story.

I've realized lately that the books I really tend to like have great descriptions. This one is no exception. Set in the northern part of China near the Korean border, a young boy learns how to hunt ginseng from his father and grandfather. As he hunts ginseng, the world around him changes. I love how Talarigo is able to describe how the cultural revolution affects this man without going into...more

I've realized lately that the books I really tend to like have great descriptions. This one is no exception. Set in the northern part of China near the Korean border, a young boy learns how to hunt ginseng from his father and grandfather. As he hunts ginseng, the world around him changes. I love how Talarigo is able to describe how the cultural revolution affects this man without going into ideology too much- it helped to round out my perceptions and ideas of the cultural revolution. I relished the descriptions within and as I read, I cherished the time I had in China.   hide

A quick read with an interesting plot and scenery choice, if you will. Not a lot of depth or twists.

I really enjoyed this book; Talarigo was able to create a moving tale with spartan use of words. The ending left me unsettled; there wasn't much closure, but unfortunately the tale he is telling is not over yet.

Beautiful account of tragic story.