Read 150 pages or so. Interesting from a historical perspective, but I think one would really have to be into 11th cent Japanese courtly romances to get through it all.

This was a wonderful book. If you've been intimidated, don't hesitate to pick up this classic- it was surprisingly approachable (I read the Waley translation). Many thanks to my reading friend for buddy reading with me. ( )

While I was reading this book, I constantly forgot how early it was written. The culture described is so highly developed and the style in which the book (can I say novel?) is written, is too. Murasaki is a keen observer of the human mind. 'The Tale of the Genji' has a gentleness that I love. Tip: read it after Beowulf (written in the same time). ( )

Considered one of the earliest novels, this book was written by a lady in waiting of the imperial Japanese court in the 11th century. It features the romantic misadventures of Genji, the son of the emperor. Genji is a bit of a rogue, who takes advantage of his powerful position to get what he wants. He seduces young women, and sometimes carries them off to a remote location away from prying eyes.

As I read it, I kept reminding myself that it is a piece of history, written in medieval times to entertain the women at court. It provides us a glimpse of the culture and class distinctions of the era from a person who lived through it. The prose and poetry are beautiful in places. I found it reasonably entertaining, though the protagonist engages in some pretty reprehensible behavior. A modern reader may get a little impatient with the slow pace and repetition. I think it is wonderful that we have preserved this piece of historic writing.
( )

Here's what I wrote in 2008 about this read: "Wow, what a read. Considered the world's first novel (written in the Eleventh Century), the tale of Genji, the Shining Prince of Japan, and Japanese courtly life. Long, detailed, and worth each word." Generally recognized as the world's first novel and written by a (certainly extraordinary) woman of the court. Note that publication date is approximate; historians know it was published by 1021. ( )