Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop felt like wrapping my hands around a steaming mug of coffee on a bone-chilling winter day. As I flipped through the pages, a gentle warmth enveloped my soul. Much like savouring the comforting sips of hot coffee, I found solace in the act of turning each page, as if the book itself were a soothing beverage that thawed my frozen fingers. This book dissolved my worries and stresses, if only for a fleeting moment.

As a K-Drama lover and binge-watcher, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between Yoon Jiho from ‘Because This Is My First Life’ and the bookshop owner, Yeongju. Her struggles, inner thoughts, and the heartbreaking reluctance to share her troubles resonated deeply within me, hitting at the core of my own experiences. However, it wasn’t just Yeongju; the inner monologues and stories of the other characters within the bookshop also struck a chord. In a reflection of real life, these characters brought together by the bookshop, possessed many layers. Similar to us, they wore facades and like us, donned brave fronts in front of others, navigating societal expectations they were reluctant to fulfill.

Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop is both a warm hug and a food for thought. It compels you to think about the way you’re living life. In fact, it’s a meditation on life itself. It’s scattered with pearls of wisdom, with each chapter inviting contemplation and insight.

For those standing at the crossroads of life, this book has the power to act as a compass, gently guiding you towards the life you genuinely want to live. It’s a beacon of inspiration, encouraging introspection and thoughtful contemplation.

I say, it’s a must-read!