While I didn’t plan out the plot before starting to write, I knew the atmosphere I wanted to create. I wanted to write a novel evoking the mood of Kamome Diner and Little Forest. A space we can escape to, a refuge from the intensity of daily life where we can’t even pause to take a breather. A space to shelter us from the harsh criticisms whipping us to do more, to go faster. A space to snuggle comfortably for a day. A day without something siphoning our energy, a day to replenish what’s lost. A day we begin with anticipation and end with satisfaction. A day where we grow, and from growth sprouts hope. A day spent having meaningful conversations with good people. Most importantly, a day where we feel good, and our hearts beat strongly. I wanted to write about such a day, and the people within it.
― Hwang Bo-reum, Letter to readers
What booksellers are saying about Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop
- It was wonderful to read Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-reum. It read like the author did a great job of capturing the highs and lows of running a bookstore, and the emotional journey of the main character as she pursued her dreams. It’s not easy to start a new venture like a bookstore, but it’s inspiring to see how the character found healing and happiness through her work. I do enjoy reading books by authors from different countries. This was a great way to expand my perspective and learn about different cultures and experiences. Have you read any other books by Korean authors that you would recommend? It’s always exciting to discover new authors and stories. Overall, I loved this book, Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop is a heartwarming and uplifting read that celebrates the power of following your dreams and pursuing your passions.
― Valinda Payne-Miller, Turning Page Bookshop, Goose Creek, South Carolina | Buy from Turning Page
- A tender and wise exploration of the interior lives of a Korean bookshop staff and their customers. Each person’s story unfolds quietly. As each one’s past comes to meet their present, the community they form opens the way for change and hope. Lovely, in turns melancholy and gently humorous. a must read for all book lovers.
― Jan Blodgett, Main Street Books, Davidson, North Carolina | Buy from Main Street Books
- A wonderfully cozy and philosophical about turning over a new leaf, starting again, and the joys and community that a small local bookshop can bring. I loved getting to know each of the characters in Hwang’s warm novel as they fumble off the path that was “prescribed” for them and discover a new world of personal passion and growth. Perfect for readers who enjoyed Before the Coffee Gets Cold, Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, or who want a novel that kindly reminds them that life is a winding road full of twists and turns and as long as we keep our hearts open – who knows what opportunities will come!
― Caleb Masters, Bookmarks, Winston-Salem, North Carolina| Buy from Bookmarks
About Hwang Bo-reum and Shanna Tan
Hwang Bo-reum is the author of several essay collections, and Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop is her first novel. The novel was initially published after winning a contest held by the Korean platform Brunch. She lives in Seoul.
Shanna Tan is a Singaporean translator working from Korean, Chinese, and Japanese into English. She was selected for two emerging translator mentorships in 2022. Her translations have appeared in the Southern Review, the Common, Azalea, and others. She lives in Singapore.
