Books Like...

At Least We Can Apologize by Lee Kiho is a Korean short novel that delves into the nature of apology through the lens of two protagonists, Si bong and Jin man, who make a living out of apologizing for others' faults. The story follows these characters as they navigate a world filled with absurdity, social misfits, and the harsh realities of life, all while maintaining a sense of innocence and insight towards humanity. The novel explores themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and the complexities of human relationships in a darkly humorous and thought-provoking manner.

The narrative style of the book is charming and filled with tenderness, drawing readers into the lives of the characters who, despite their simplicity and mental illness, exhibit a profound openness towards the world. Lee Kiho's exploration of apology and the absurdity of life through the perspectives of Si bong and Jin man creates a compelling and engaging read that challenges readers to reflect on important aspects of human nature and society.

At Dusk by Hwang Sok-yong tells the story of Park Minwoo, a successful architect reflecting on his life after receiving a message from his childhood love, Cha Soona. The narrative explores Minwoo's past, characterized by poverty and transformation in Seoul, while intertwining the lives of other characters like Jung Woohee, a young theatre director. The novel addresses the complexities of memory, class disparity, and the personal costs of modernization in South Korea.

The writing is marked by sparse yet evocative prose, expressing a sense of melancholy throughout. The story's structure involves fragmented memories that challenge character perceptions and create emotional depth. Hwang's style encourages readers to ponder the essence of human connection and the inevitable regrets that arise from life's choices, making it a meditative exploration of both individual and societal identity.

'The Impossible Fairy Tale' by Han Yujoo is a novel that delves into the unsettling and twisted world of childhood, exploring themes of domestic abuse, violence, and the consequences of storytelling. The book follows two middle school girls, Mia and the unnamed Child, as they navigate through a narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. The writing style is described as uncomfortable, clever, and challenging, with meta literary elements that create a sense of dread and unease throughout the story. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a journey through disturbing classroom life, surreal dreamscapes, and thought-provoking reflections on the act of creation in storytelling.

No One Writes Back is a captivating novel that follows a young man and his extraordinary dog, Wajo, as they embark on a journey, meeting various characters along the way. The story unfolds through letters written by the narrator to the people he encounters, assigning them numbers instead of names. The narrative explores themes of connection, writing, and relationships, as the man and a woman novelist, 751, share their thoughts and experiences while traveling together. The book offers a unique and engaging plot, with a mix of emotional depth and unexpected perspectives on life.

The book delves into the lives of the characters, revealing their inner struggles, desires, and the complexities of human connections. Through the letters and interactions, the reader gains insight into the narrator's family dynamics, his journey of self-discovery, and the woman's creative endeavors. No One Writes Back is not just a story about a physical journey but also a journey of introspection, writing, and the search for meaning in relationships and experiences.

'The Plotters' by Un-su Kim is a unique thriller set in South Korea's dark underworld of crime and assassination. The story follows Reseng, an aging assassin, as he navigates through a power struggle between the old guard and the new, while trying to survive in a world where trust is treacherous and competition is ruthless. The book is filled with colorful characters, dark humor, and clever plot twists, making it a page-turner that delves into themes of loyalty, change, and the complexities of human nature.

The narrative of 'The Plotters' is a blend of noir and literature, featuring witty dialogue, Tarantino-esque violence, and a storyline that keeps readers on their toes with its twists and turns. The book explores Reseng's journey of self-discovery and moral dilemmas, as he questions his loyalty, confronts his past, and grapples with the idea of changing his life. Through Reseng's encounters with various characters and his involvement in a complex assassination plot, the novel offers a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of happiness, choices, and the human capacity for change.

"Untold Night and Day" by Bae Suah is a surreal and experimental novel that follows Ayami, an actress, on a journey through the hot, dark streets of Seoul. The story blurs the lines between reality and imagination, with recurring characters and motifs that challenge the reader to question the connections and meanings behind them. The prose is described as sleek and dreamlike, creating a narrative that feels like a jungle cat - powerful and captivating, yet elusive in its full understanding.

The novel unfolds in a cyclical and confusing manner, with events seen through the window of a car driving at night, where characters merge into each other and surreal dreams blend with reality. As the day progresses, the heat and humidity increase, adding to the surreal quality of the story. The translator's note by Deborah Smith enhances the novel, elevating it to another realm and providing insights into the motifs and imagery that intensify as the story reaches its peak.

"Please Look After Mother" by Kyung-Sook Shin tells the story of a mother who goes missing in the Seoul subway system, leading her family to reflect on their relationships with her. explores themes of family values, motherhood, and the impact of the mother's disappearance on the family dynamics. Through multiple perspectives, the author delves into the deep characterization of each family member and their journey towards understanding the importance of appreciating and connecting with their mother.

In "Human Acts" by Han Kang, the novel delves into the harrowing events of the 1980 Gwangju uprising in South Korea through a series of interconnected chapters told from different perspectives. The narrative explores the brutal violence and atrocities committed during the protests, shedding light on the personal experiences of victims, families, and those affected by the tragic events. Kang's writing style intricately weaves together stories of loss, trauma, and resilience, offering a poignant and visceral portrayal of historical events.

The book is lauded for its graphic yet poignant exploration of the Gwangju uprising, providing a deep dive into a lesser-known piece of history. Kang's ability to humanize the characters and convey the emotional impact of the atrocities through vivid descriptions and personal connections resonates with readers, drawing them into the narrative and leaving a lasting impression. The unique structure of the novel, with each chapter narrated from a different perspective, adds layers of complexity to the storytelling, offering a multifaceted view of the events and their aftermath.

'If I Had Your Face' by Frances Cha is a novel that delves into the lives of four Korean women living in a society where beauty standards and patriarchal norms heavily influence their decisions. The book explores themes of plastic surgery, misogyny, class distinction, and the power of female friendships. Each character faces their own struggles and desires, showcasing the complexities of modern South Korean society through their interconnected lives. The writing style immerses the reader into a world where societal pressures and personal aspirations collide, offering a poignant reflection on the challenges women face in a materialistic and judgmental environment.

"Someone Who Will Love You in All Your Damaged Glory" by Raphael Bob-Waksberg is a collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of relationships, both romantic and familial. The stories are described as subtly heartbreaking yet inherently comedic, blending surreal humor with dark, disturbing emotions and situations. The writing style is noted for its rich language infused with humor, effortless reading experience, and undercurrent of magic realism that transforms the worlds into curious new places.

The book captures the worst versions of relationships, exploring themes of love, loneliness, and the nuances of human connections. The stories range from ordinary failed workplace romances to surreal experiences, with characters navigating breakups, heartbreak, and the trials and tribulations of love. The author's unique voice, smart storytelling abilities, and wistful wit create a collection that is both weird and beautiful, offering unexpected truths and interpretations of meaning that resonate with readers on a personal level.