Blackberries in the Dreamhouse

One of the most beautiful books i have read .

The book itself is beautifully packaged. The language is clear and subtle and evokes a sense of tranquility. Each line and paragraph is a poem in itself.The reading works on several levels. First at a cultural level, it introduces the reader to an ancient culture and its nuances that draw the reader in and engulfs him with these exquisite concepts of love and longing. The reader stays rooted down to the end of the magical journey.On the next level, the writing dances delicately between prose and poetry, never once leaving the reader out of its mesmerising grasp..On the next level, the book speaks of a metaphysical level keeping the reader informed of the inner dialogues of the writer and the external interpretations of what is evolving in the flow of events. No two characters have the same desires and dreams and that alone keeps the reader focused on the individuality of each new character.Finally the storyline is simple, taut with description and imbued with exquisite cultural overtones tha both make this reading calm and steady and something to aspire to. Its beauty lies in its purity.Its a great little book to read. No wonder if it was nominated for a major award. Diane Frank has used all of the skills required to write a pristine, expressive novel. Great reading.

I was blown away by this book! Mesmerized by the language, I read parts over and over again to savor the beauty. Like a jewel with many brilliant facets! The River of Birth chapter put me inside a woman's mind and body while giving birth. The way Yukiko lived through her dreams, and often drew them, created such a full inner life -- the real substance of the novel. This is a book to read and re-read. It is written from the inside out, as if the outer events are just imaginary elements in the flow of Yukiko's consciousness.

I based my purchase of this book on the reviews before me. What a big mistake! I laughed out loud and offered this book to anyone who wanted it, immediately. This book was awful. Dare I say, the worst I have ever read? Yes, the worst I have ever read. How many times were items compared to persimmons? Far too many. The metaphors were overkill. I was unable to establish a desire to know any of the characters. This was really like reading about someone's bad dream. You know, the kind where a goat delivers you room service. Just whacky and totally unbelievable.

This book is a lyrical prose poem that presents a philosophical view of Buddhism. A troubled young geisha seeks her future soul mate. I found the book worth reading but sometimes tired of the metaphorical verse used continually throughout.

So lovely and hypnotic, this novel leads you gently through a mystical landscape, immersing you in a softly lit world where love and honour, truth and the ability to fully savour life are explored lyrically. Haunting, philosophical and optimistic, this is one of the most luscious novels I have read. Take your time with this one...Buy several; you will want to share this but won't want to let yours go.

Not a great story. But at least it was brief.

This book is so engaging, poetic, and hypnotizing. I read in one sitting because I could not put it down.