The Thousand Autumns of Jacob De Zoet
Set in late 18th century Japan, 'The Thousand Autumns of Jacob De Zoet' follows Jacob, a determined Dutch clerk, as he navigates the complexities of trade and cultural exchange in a foreign land. Amidst the backdrop of intrigue and danger, Jacob becomes enamored with a remarkable woman, igniting a forbidden love that defies societal expectations. As political tensions rise, secrets unfold, and loyalties are tested, he must confront challenges that threaten not only his heart but also his very life. Mitchell weaves a rich tapestry of history and emotion, drawing readers into a world where every choice carries profound consequences. Experience a tale of ambition, sacrifice, and the relentless passage of time, leaving you questioning what you would risk for love.
By David Stephen Mitchell
Published: 2010
"In a world where the tide of change is both a promise and a threat, true understanding of ourselves and others may be the rarest treasure of all."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
Dispatched to the influential Japanese port of Dejima in 1799, ambitious clerk Jacob de Zoet resolves to earn enough money to deserve his wealthy fiancée, an effort that is challenged by his relationship with the midwife daughter of a samurai.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from The Thousand Autumns of Jacob De Zoet
About the Author
David Stephen Mitchell
David Stephen Mitchell is a celebrated British author renowned for his imaginative narratives and intricate storytelling. His notable works include 'Cloud Atlas', 'The Bone Clocks', and 'Ghostwritten', which often intertwine multiple character narratives across various time periods and genres. Mitchell's writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose, deep philosophical themes, and a seamless blend of elements from fantasy, science fiction, and literary fiction. He has earned critical acclaim and a dedicated readership, establishing himself as a prominent figure in contemporary literature.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- David Stephen Mitchell
- Published
- January 2010
- Publisher
- N/A
- ISBN
- 1400065453
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 675
- Genres
- Historical FictionFiction
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
Cloud Atlas
David Mitchell
Saving Private Ryan
Max Allan Collins
A Thousand Splendid Suns
Khaled Hosseini
All the Light We Cannot See
Anthony Doerr
The Woman in White
Wilkie Collins
An American Marriage (Oprah's Book Club)
Tayari Jones
Beloved
Toni Morrison
On Kindness
Adam Phillips, Barbara Taylor
Medieval Technology and Social Change
Lynn White (Jr.)
The Reason I Jump
Naoki Higashida
West Winging It
Pat Cunnane
Bel Canto
Ann Patchett
Affective Computing
Rosalind W. Picard
Conversational Capital
Bertrand Cesvet, Tony Babinski, Eric Alper
A Place of Greater Safety
Hilary Mantel
The Uninhabitable Earth
David Wallace-Wells
Life on the Edge
Johnjoe McFadden, Jim Al-Khalili
Trust Exercise
Susan Choi
The Hare with Amber Eyes
Edmund de Waal
It's All Good
Gwyneth Paltrow, Julia Turshen
The Wizard of Menlo Park
Randall E. Stross
Between Meals
A. J. Liebling
A Brief History of Seven Killings
Marlon James
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
Betty Smith
Austerlitz
Crudo
Olivia Laing
Catching the Big Fish
David Lynch
We
Robert A. Johnson
Cinnamon Skin
John D. MacDonald
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Book Recommendations
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC, is a U.S. Congresswoman representing New York's 14th district. She gained national attention after winning her seat in 2018 at the age of 29, making her one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. Ocasio-Cortez is known for her progressive policies, advocating for issues such as Medicare for All, climate change action, and economic justice. She has become a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and uses social media to engage with constituents and the public. Her rise from grassroots activism to Congress has inspired many young people to get involved in politics.
View Collection
Jon Hamm's Book Recommendations
Jon Hamm is an American actor best known for his role as Don Draper in the critically acclaimed television series "Mad Men," which aired from 2007 to 2015. While Hamm's achievements are primarily in acting, his portrayal of the complex, enigmatic ad executive has been lauded for its depth and nuance, significantly impacting television storytelling. His performance earned him numerous awards, including a Golden Globe and an Emmy. Beyond "Mad Men," Hamm has appeared in various films and TV shows, showcasing his versatility across genres. Though not primarily a literary figure, his work has influenced contemporary narratives and character development in modern media.
View Collection
Sam Altman's Book Recommendations
Sam Altman is an American entrepreneur, programmer, and investor, best known as the former president of Y Combinator, a startup accelerator that has launched numerous successful companies, including Airbnb, Dropbox, and Reddit. Altman himself is a co-founder of OpenAI, an organization focused on ensuring that artificial intelligence benefits all of humanity. He has been a leading voice in the tech world, advocating for responsible innovation and the ethical use of AI. Under his leadership, Y Combinator grew into one of the most influential organizations in Silicon Valley, helping to fund and mentor early-stage startups. Altman’s blog and writings are widely read in the tech community, where he shares his insights on entrepreneurship, technology, and the future of AI. He has also been involved in several philanthropic ventures and continues to influence the tech world through his investments and thought leadership. His work at OpenAI has put him at the forefront of discussions about the future of artificial intelligence.
View Collection
Elizabeth Warren's Book Recommendations
Elizabeth Warren is an American politician, author, and former law professor, serving as the senior U.S. Senator from Massachusetts. Known for her advocacy of consumer protection, economic reform, and progressive policies, Warren has been a leading voice in American politics, particularly on issues related to income inequality and Wall Street regulation. She was a key architect of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and has authored several books on economic policy. Warren ran for the Democratic nomination in the 2020 presidential election and remains a significant figure in the progressive movement.
View Collection
Hillary Clinton's Book Recommendations
Hillary Clinton is an American politician, diplomat, and former First Lady of the United States, who served as U.S. Secretary of State from 2009 to 2013. Clinton was the Democratic nominee for president in 2016, becoming the first woman to win the nomination of a major U.S. political party. Throughout her career, Clinton has been a strong advocate for women’s rights, healthcare reform, and human rights. She is also the author of several books, including What Happened, which chronicles her 2016 presidential campaign. Clinton’s impact on American politics, particularly as a champion for gender equality and social justice, remains significant.
View Collection
Radhika Jones's Book Recommendations
Radhika Jones is a prominent American editor and journalist, celebrated for her role as the editor-in-chief of *Vanity Fair*, a position she has held since 2017. Under her leadership, the magazine has embraced a broader range of voices and contemporary issues, reinvigorating its cultural relevance. Before her tenure at *Vanity Fair*, Jones served as editorial director at *The New York Times* books department and as managing editor at *Time* magazine. She holds a Ph.D. in English and Comparative Literature from Columbia University, reflecting her deep academic engagement with literature. Jones is widely respected for her keen editorial vision and commitment to diversity and inclusion in media.
View Collection
Derek Sivers's Book Recommendations
Derek Sivers is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of CD Baby, one of the first online platforms that allowed independent musicians to sell their music directly to fans. Sivers is known for his unconventional approach to business and life, advocating for simplicity, focus, and self-reliance. After selling CD Baby, Sivers has become a sought-after speaker and writer, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and personal development. His books, including Anything You Want, provide practical advice for living a meaningful, purpose-driven life. Sivers’ minimalist and thoughtful approach has made him a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community.
View Collection
Nelson Mandela's Book Recommendations
Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary and political leader who became the country's first black president from 1994 to 1999. Renowned for his lifelong struggle against racial segregation, he spent 27 years in prison before his release in 1990, which marked a pivotal moment in South Africa's transition to a multiracial democracy. Mandela's literary contributions include his acclaimed autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom," which chronicles his early life, education, and 27 years in prison. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 for his efforts to dismantle apartheid and foster reconciliation. Mandela's legacy endures as a symbol of resistance against oppression and a champion for peace and social justice.
View Collection
Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations
Jordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and professor, best known for his work on psychology, political philosophy, and cultural criticism. His book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos became a global bestseller, offering advice on personal responsibility, order, and meaning in life. Peterson’s lectures, which cover topics like mythology, religion, and self-improvement, have garnered millions of views online, making him a polarizing figure in both academic and popular circles. He is known for his critiques of political correctness and his emphasis on individual responsibility. Peterson’s influence has sparked widespread debate about free speech, identity politics, and mental health.
View Collection
Mindy Kaling's Book Recommendations
Mindy Kaling is an American actress, comedian, writer, and producer, best known for her work on The Office, where she played Kelly Kapoor and served as a writer and producer. Kaling has since created and starred in her own shows, including The Mindy Project and Never Have I Ever, earning critical acclaim for her unique voice and humor. She is also the author of several best-selling memoirs, where she shares her insights on Hollywood, identity, and personal growth. Kaling is a trailblazer for women of color in entertainment, using her platform to tell diverse and authentic stories. Her contributions to television and film have made her a significant figure in comedy and media.
View Collection“In a world where the tide of change is both a promise and a threat, true understanding of ourselves and others may be the rarest treasure of all.”
The Thousand Autumns of Jacob De Zoet
By David Stephen Mitchell
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.