Top 7 Captivating Asian Historical Novels That Will Transport You Through Time
- Mel Bridges
- Apr 24
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 26
Historical fiction opens a door to the past, transporting readers to different cultures and times. Asian historical fiction, in particular, immerses you in vibrant worlds filled with rich traditions and emotional struggles. This genre provides a glimpse into significant moments in history, told through engaging narratives. Here, we explore seven exceptional Asian historical fiction books that deserve a spot on your reading list.
1. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
The Kite Runner unfolds in a shifting Afghanistan, where redemption and friendship are intertwined. The story follows Amir, a boy from an affluent family, and his bond with Hassan, his father's servant's son. Their lives change dramatically due to the political upheaval of the 1970s, particularly during the Soviet invasion and the subsequent rise of the Taliban.
This touching narrative not only addresses the devastation of war but also explores personal relationships shaped by culture. Hosseini powerfully illustrates the impact of societal expectations and personal regrets, making Afghanistan almost a character in its own right. In fact, more than 2.5 million Afghan refugees fled the country during the Soviet invasion, showcasing the war's far-reaching effects.
2. Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
Pachinko is an epic saga that follows multiple generations of a Korean family in Japan. Starting in the early 20th century, it tells the story of Sunja, who becomes pregnant by a wealthy man. Faced with a tough decision, she chooses to move to Osaka, Japan with a minister instead of staying in her homeland.
The book takes on complex themes like identity and belonging, illuminating the struggles of the marginalized Korean community in Japan. With over 600 pages, Lee dives deep into the intricacies of the immigrant experience. Many Koreans in Japan continue to face discrimination, highlighting the difficulties many immigrants endure. Pachinko is a remarkable exploration of love, sacrifice, and resilience.
3. The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson
The Orphan Master's Son offers a gripping journey through the surreal landscape of North Korea's totalitarian regime. Central to the story is Pak Jun Do, a young orphan who learns to adapt to an oppressive society. This novel chronicles his adventures as he adopts multiple identities to survive and uncover his true self in a world marked by repression.
Johnson's portrayal is chilling yet captivating, offering insights into a regime that suppresses its citizens. We're reminded of a stark reality: tens of thousands of North Koreans are trapped behind bars, their stories often overlooked. Some 120,000 people are believed to be imprisoned in the country, often in remote and mountainous labor camps, without due process for political reasons, according to the US-based Committee for Human Rights in North Korea (HRNK). The Korea Institute for National Unification estimates 80,000 to 120,000 individuals remain incarcerated in South Korea today. But what's even more disturbing is that just a decade ago, the number was much higher: between 150,000 and 200,000 people were imprisoned. (1, 2)
These somber facts frame the emotional depth of Jun Do's journey and the ongoing struggles of common people living in North Korea.
4. Sea Change by Jeremy Page
In Sea Change, Jeremy Page tells the story of a fisherman in coastal China during the
Cultural Revolution. This narrative reflects how politics, family, and the environment connect. The protagonist grapples with the dual challenges of protecting his loved ones while staying true to his values amidst societal change.
Page’s lyrical prose captures the beauty and harsh realities of coastal life. His exploration of themes like survival hits home. The Cultural Revolution displaced approximately 20 million people in China, a statistic that adds weight to the protagonist's internal and external conflicts, making the tale one of resilience.
5. The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo
Set in 1930s Malaya, The Night Tiger weaves together the lives of a Chinese dressmaker and a young boy working as a houseboy. The story blends historical facts with local folklore, drawing readers into a lush, fantastical world. At its core is the mysterious death of a doctor and the legend of a man-eating tiger that raises questions about love and fate.
Choo's enchanting prose paints a vivid picture of Malaya, rich in cultural nuances. Malaya became a leading producer and exporter of natural rubber after the 1900s. Together with other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, Malaya accounted for 97% of the world’s natural rubber production. (3)
Malaysia (its modern name) is a diverse multiethnic and multicultural country with half of its population being ethnically Malay and with sizeable minority groups of Chinese, Indian, and over a hundred indigenous peoples living in its islands. Malaysia had been influenced by the traders and settlers who arrived at the islands — being spiritually- and linguistically-influenced in both Hinduism and Buddhism.
The country is formed from different kingdoms and colonies subject by the British Empire and the US. It is against this vibrant backdrop of political, economic, and cultural diversity that contextualizes the characters' lives and adventures in the novel.
6. White Mulberry By Rosa Kwon Easton
Set in the 1930s, a teenage girl named Miyoung is forced to leave her village near Pyongyang, Korea and adopt a new identity in Kyoto, Japan. As she struggles to balance her Korean heritage with the expectations of her Japanese surroundings, she finds solace in a Korean Christian church and falls in love with a social activist. But as war looms on the horizon, Miyoung must confront a choice that will change her life forever.
Much like Pachinko, this narrative sheds light on the injustices faced by Koreans living in Japan, forced to endure the harsh realities of being at the bottom of society's hierarchy. The novel further examines the limited roles and independence available to Asian women in patriarchal societies, explores the tension between fulfilling family obligations and pursuing personal dreams, and the search for identity and belonging amidst the challenges of being an outsider in the country of residence.
7. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon by Wang Dulu
The novel that inspired the beloved film, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a rich tale that combines martial arts with a quest for love and honor in ancient China. It centers around a legendary sword and the intertwined lives of warriors and a young woman longing for freedom.
Wang Dulu's narrative beautifully blends fantasy with deep emotional insights, spanning themes of love and betrayal. The story reflects a time when the pursuit of honor was vital, and battles often mirrored internal conflicts. It serves as a reminder that history is woven into our personal stories.
Reflecting on Rich Narratives
Asian historical fiction offers a wealth of knowledge and emotional depth, taking readers on unforgettable journeys through time and culture. The seven books highlighted here reveal the diversity and richness of Asian narratives, presenting unique eras and experiences. These stories not only shed light on historical events but also connect us with the diverse humanity of their characters.
Whether drawn to tales of resilience, poignant reflections on identity, or stories rich with cultural lore, these selections promise meaningful adventures that deepen your understanding of both the familiar and the unknown aspects of Asian history. Immerse yourself in these pages and let the past come alive.
Citations
Reality Check Team (May 10, 2018). "North Korea: How many political prisoners are detained in prison?" BBC, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-44069749
"2022 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: North Korea," US Department of State, https://www.state.gov/reports/2022-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/north-korea/
Anonymous, (May 14, 2020). "South East Asia Rubber Markets in 2020," HQTS, https://www.hqts.com/south-east-asia-rubber-markets-in-2020/
Comments