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307 pages, Hardcover
First published January 17, 2022
Yeong-ju has abandoned her old life, which involved doing all things as dictated by her family and the society, and followed her dreams by setting up a bookshop in an old-fashioned neighbourhood in Seoul. She knows nothing about running an indie bookstore, but learns along the way.
The story depicts Yeong-ju’s journey towards inner peace and business success, while also focussing on the other people around her – her employees, business partners, associate authors, and customers – and their personal journeys of self-discovery.
The story is written in the third person perspective of various characters, but comes primarily through Yeong-ju’s eyes.
“Isn’t that what life is about? Forging forward with the answer you have – stumbling along the way and picking yourself up – only to one day realise that the answer you’ve held on to for a long time is not the right one . When that happens, it’s time to look for the next answer. That’s how ordinary folks, like herself, live. Over our life span, the right answer will keep changing.”
“Running an independent bookshop was like roaming a stretch of land without roads. There was no tried-and-tested business model. Bookshop owners live day by day, hesitant to plan too far ahead .”
“A curious feeling swept over her. The feeling of being accepted.”
“Because it’s our first life, worries are aplenty, and anxiety, too. Because it’s our first life, it’s precious. Because it’s our first life, nobody knows what’ll happen even in five minutes.”
“All of you should find something you enjoy doing, something that makes you excited. Instead of pursuing what is recognised and valued by society, do what you like. If you can find it, you’ll not waver easily, no matter what others think. Be brave.”