Over the course of this novel, we hear the story of Ito as she bounces back and forth between Japan and California, taking care of her parents, husband, daughters, and herself. The story explores the intricacies of aging, death, struggle, and compassion through an array of relationships; however, the story itself becomes tedious at times with its winding descriptions and tangents. The same components that allow the book to shine - Ito's magnificent imagery and poetic voice alongside Japanese folktales which are woven throughout - also bring the journey to a standstill at some points. The Thorn Puller is a wonderful display of Ito's talent in writing, but the story itself failed to keep me immersed as it drew on.

The Thorn Puller, Wow! this book has parts which will fascinate you , parts which will repulse you but you won't be able to stop reading it.