Sŏndŏk: Princess of the Moon and Stars, Korea, A.D. 595

This book is written as a diary by a young Sondok, soon to be first Queen of Silla Korea, A.D. 595. Even though Sondok is heir to the throne, her father the King of Silla kingdom disapproves of her study of astronomy, believing that such academic endeavors are not suitable for females. Sondok struggles with this personally, as well as with the discordances between the Buddhist beliefs of her kingdom, the Shamanistic practices of the older generations, and the growing Confucian influence from her kingdom's "Older Brother China."

While this historical figure and period of pre-unified Korea was fascinating to read about, there was something about the voice and language weaved into Sondok's narrative that I had difficulty believing as very show more realistic. Also, I couldn't help but feel that Sondok had decidedly Western point-of-view of her world even though she was supposed to be a young Buddhist Korean girl. Still, it did feel like the author gave it her best effort and intent to share the culture and perspectives of Silla Korea. show less

Sondok is interesting because she is struggling with typical adolescent issues while struggling with her father and her coming into power as the first female ruler of her country. Some portions of the book seemed like forced culture lessons, though they were interesting nonetheless. Sondok's greatest passion is her astronomy, and she remains true to this in the end.

I liked the book! I thought it was good, but not amazing. I did like the astrological aspect of it though and I did stay interested. For a person in the right age group I can see how this would be a big hit. Very good. 3.75 out of 5 stars. I would recommend it.

I liked the book! I thought it was good, but not amazing. I did like the astrological aspect of it though and I did stay interested. For a person in the right age group I can see how this would be a big hit. Very good. 3.75 out of 5 stars. I would recommend it.

In a series of messages placed in her grandmother's ancestral jar, a sixth century princess and future ruler of the Korean kingdom of Silla, vents her frustration at not being able to study astronomy because she is a girl.

Looking for more information on Sondok, had a list of resources in the back. Written in diary format.

Read the appendices. I tried, but I just don't like the diary format or most historical fiction in general.