The Situation: When Yeongju opened a bookshop in the heart of Seoul, she was essentially starting over. She had done the things she had always believed she was supposed to do, including marriage and a great job, but now she was doing something she wanted to do. The early days are full of despair and worry, mostly over whether she has made a mistake, and whether the bookshop will last beyond a year. Soon, she hires a barista, a young man named Minjun, who also seemingly did everything he was supposed to in order to have a successful life, but it had not worked out as planned for him either. Yeongju makes it clear that the position is most likely temporary as the bookshop may not survive. But the two of them put in their best effort to make the bookshop work.
The Problem: As the months go by, the bookshop enjoys steady business, and gains loyal customers. Through Yeongju's social media efforts, and the work she puts into making thoughtful recommendations, while also providing engaging events, potential customers manage to find the small bookshop. Soon, Yeongju's small social circle includes Jimi, the unhappily married coffee roaster; Mincheol, the aimless student; and Jungsuh, the burned out contract worker who uses the bookshop as a place to knit. They have all found comfort and solace at a bookshop that could easily close should the market go south. And while Yeongju is finding satisfaction in the work she is doing, she may be too distracted to recognize and embrace another potential opportunity for the happiness she seeks.
Genre, Themes, History: This novel is set in Seoul, South Korea, and was originally published in January of 2022. Now translated in English, the book has gained attention for its heartwarming approach and endearing characters. Several characters within the book mention work, as well as burnout, and the idea of finding joy and satisfaction in an everyday job. Some of them are burned out; some lament not being able to find work; and others have managed to find a suitable day job, while also pursuing a hobby they love. Another reoccurring theme is the idea of starting over, and what that may mean in different situations, and why it can be so scary.
My Verdict: The word 'heartwarming' appears in two different locations on the book jacket, and it is certainly an accurate description. While there is some light conflict present in the book, as well as a few tense moments (though barely), the overall focus of the story is on the characters and how they came to be part of the group surrounding Yeongju and the bookshop, and what they are looking for in life. It is a simple look at the everyday workings of an independent bookshop, but it is far from boring. Starting right in the middle, the reader is introduced to intriguing characters that clearly have a backstory, but the details are not given right away. And with every new introduction, the potential for more insight and intriguing conversations about life increases, until the reader is presented with an ending that is rewarding and moving.
Favorite Moment: I enjoyed the insight into how Yeongju decided to make book recommendations to individual people. This is often something I struggle with, particularly when asked by people I do not know well.
Favorite Character: Minjun, the bookshop's barista, is a bit aimless at the start, and does not at all expect to hold the job at the shop for more than a few months. But he slowly finds his place, not only in the bookshop, but in the small circle of regulars, and even begins to take his job seriously.
Recommended Reading: I am honestly at a bit of a loss on this one. I suppose will go ahead and recommend pretty much anything by Haruki Murakami, who will have his latest book translated into English and published later this year.
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