The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet

Interesting Facts

• The novel is set in the late 18th century on the island of Dejima, an artificial island in Nagasaki Bay, which served as the only place of trade between Japan and the West.
• The main character, Jacob de Zoet, is a Dutch clerk who arrives at Dejima with the aim of making money and returning home to marry his beloved.
• The book explores themes of cultural exchange, colonialism, and the clash between East and West through the lens of personal stories and the fates of the characters.
• The novel includes elements of mysticism and magical realism, adding a unique atmosphere and depth to the narrative.
• One of the key characters is the Japanese midwife Orito, who plays an important role in the development of the plot and the fate of Jacob de Zoet.
• The author meticulously researched the historical context and realities of the era, making the depiction of the lifestyle and customs of the time particularly authentic and vivid.
• The novel has received numerous positive reviews from critics for its complex structure, rich language, and the profound themes it addresses.