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We're all inadequate, weak and ordinary beings. But because we're capable of being kind, for a moment — no matter how fleeting — we can be extraordinary.

— Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-reum, Shanna Tan

Silence settled comfortably between them. Yeongju enjoyed these quiet moments. She was glad to share space without needing to force a conversation. Small talk could be a considerate gesture, but most of the time, at your own expense. With nothing to say, squeezing the words dry leaves only an empty heart and a desire to escape.

Sharing space with Minjun taught her silence could also be a form of consideration, that it was possible to be comfortable without needing to fill the silence. Gradually, she learnt to get used to the natural quietude.

— Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-reum, Shanna Tan (10% - 11%)

That said, what counts as a good book? For the regular person, it’s perhaps a book they enjoyed. But as a bookseller, Yeongju needed to think beyond that.

She tried coming up with a definition.

• Books about life. Not something generic, but a deep and raw dive into life.

Recalling Mincheol’s mother’s red-rimmed eyes, she tried to elaborate further.

• Books by authors who understand life. Those who write about family, mother and child, about themselves, about the human condition. When authors delve deep into their understanding of life to touch the hearts of readers, helping them to navigate life, isn’t that what a good book should be?

— Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-reum, Shanna Tan