Hwang Bo-Reum (pp. 330)
Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop is a contemporary novel that belongs to the healing fiction genre. According to the author, Hwang Bo-Reum: ‘I wanted to write a story that would provide comfort and strength to all those who have tried too hard to do everything right and have lost the joy of life.
The book tells the story of Yeongju, a woman who opens her own bookshop, fulfilling a dream. However, it’s not enough to just achieve her dream; she must learn to live it, which presents even greater challenges. This is reflected in the title of the second chapter: ‘It’s okay to stop crying.’ The plot explores her struggle to leave behind a ‘perfect’ but empty life in search of what truly makes her happy.
As the plot progresses, new characters enrich the story. Minjun, the barista, is someone who worked hard for a perfect life but failed to achieve the expected result. Mincheol, a misunderstood teenager with no clear purpose, and his mother, whose name we learn after several chapters, seeks to stop being seen only as ‘Mincheol’s mother’ and reclaim her own identity. Jungsuh finds peace in the bookstore, though not necessarily to buy books; her hobby is something different. Seungwoo, a well-known writer, shares something in common with the author: he didn’t start his career as a writer. Jimi, the owner of a coffee roastery, is dealing with some issues in her marriage. Each of these characters adds depth to the narrative, transforming the bookstore into a refuge for those seeking peace.
Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop is a book defined by its simplicity, both in its narrative and its characters. The characters are authentically portrayed, dealing with everyday problems that any of us could face, making it easy for readers to connect with the story. This connection to real-life experiences makes the book a refreshing read, offering a sense of rest to the reader. This was the author’s intention: «to represent characters who are taking a break» (letter from the author to the readers of Tinta Club del Libro). She explains that «hyu» means rest, and it is the first syllable of the bookshop’s name.
Despite its length, the book maintains a fluid and accessible pace. The writing is so clear and direct that there’s no need to constantly pause to understand what’s happening. The author succeeds in keeping the reader engaged, with a narrative that effectively connects. Personally, I found comfort in the simplicity and sincerity of the story, which encourages reflection on the value of taking a break to consider what truly makes me happy. It serves as a reminder that sometimes true peace and happiness are found in moments of stillness, away from the relentless pursuit of perfection.
Recommendation: Ideal for those seeking a simple and comforting story. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in a narrative that encourages reflection on the importance of moments of rest and inner peace, this book is an excellent choice. Perfect for those who enjoy stories that authentically and closely explore emotions and everyday challenges.
Sentences:
- The books welcomed her with open arms, without judging the kind of person she had become, and accepted her as she was.
- Instead of this, she learned to listen to her body and her feelings and to be in happy places.
- Yes, I meant to say that happiness is never out of our reach. It’s not in the distant past nor in the horizon of the future. It’s right in front of me. Like the beer from that day and like the tea today.
- Becoming someone’s family doesn’t mean you have to stay family forever. If you’re not happy, they are not the people you need to keep by your side.
About the Author:
Hwang Bo-Reum is a South Korean writer who graduated as a computer engineer and worked as a software developer. One day, she decided to quit her job to dedicate herself to writing. This is her first novel, published in 2021 through Brunch, a blogging platform. Regarding the book, the author describes: «This is a story about people who stop and decide to take a break to reflect on the direction of their lives.»
Book Features:
- Title: Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop
- Author: Hwang Bo-Reum (South Korea)
- Publication Year: 2022
- Original Language: Korean
- English Translation: Shanna Tan
- Spanish Translation: Andrea Rivas
- Edition: Tinta Club del Libro
- Awards: Best Book of the Year Award, Korean Booksellers Award, Japanese Booksellers Award for Best Foreign Novel (Referenced on Amazon.com)
Disclaimer: The translations of the quotes in this text were made from the Spanish version of the book. Therefore, the phrases may differ from those in the original Korean version or the English translation. Additionally, the translation was assisted by ChatGPT.
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¿Qué leer?: Un libro para cada ocasión / What to Read?: A Book for Every Occasion
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