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Format: Hardback, local library
Genre/Topics: books about books (why are there so many bookstore books in 2024???), cultural-specific commentary on work culture and familial expectations that doesn't exactly translate to a western audience, character-oriented
Emotions: cozy and comfortable, slow-burning candle of a read, heartwarming author's note
I thought that I was having a difficult time getting through this book because I was having focus issues, but it turns out that this is meant to be a slow read, the type of book you'll want to savor and process as you take it in. It's meant to be a healing experience, something that makes you take stock of your own life and experiences as you read, taking in the characters' own experiences. This title is thought-provoking and insightful, but a lot of the depth of the interpersonal issues and themes of severing familial ties and immense individual guilt over not fitting into the intense work culture can be lost on readers who aren't familiar with Korean culture's tough stances on these things.

Overall, the book is a commentary on work culture and societal expectations with an overarching theme of rediscovering your passions and following through on fulfilling your life for yourself, not other peoples' expectations. If you're in a time of your life where you need to take a retrospective look at what you're doing and the path you're on, this is a book you need to read.