From the very first moment she set foot in South Korea, Barbara Zitwer, literary agent to some of the most celebrated, prize-winning Korean authors, fell head-over-heels in love, discovering there a renewed sense of happiness and energy.
In this witty, charming book, Zitwer shares all that she has learnt about this fascinating country: a vibrant, global powerhouse of culture and industry with an enduring devotion to the ancient philosophies of han, heung and jeong (resilience, joy and the art of giving).
We follow Zitwer as she travels from the buzzing capital of Seoul to meeting Buddhist nuns in a mountain temple, from the bizarre theme park within the Demilitarised Zone to the tropical island of Jeju, home to haenyeo, the inspirational, octogenarian, female divers. Along the way she regales us with hilarious anecdotes of her cultural faux pas, top travel tips and local recipes as well as magical moments of understanding and connection.
The Korean Book of Happiness invites you to explore a beguiling culture and learn how the Korean way can make your life happier and more fulfilled.
Review
'This eclectic and informative book is equal parts memoir, travelogue, guidebook, and cultural commentary with a bonus of authentically delicious recipes. Delightfully energetic and engaging, The Korean Book of Happiness has something for every reader.' -- Heinz Insu Fenkl, author of 'Skull Water'
'This book is an invitation to adventure into every corner of this wondrous country and find happiness and peace. If you are going to Korea, this book is crucial. But this book is worth reading even more when you can't go to Korea.' -- J.M. Lee, bestselling author of 'Broken Summer' and 'The Investigation'
Book Description
An accessible, entertaining foray into a beguiling country through cultural wisdom, travel anecdotes, etiquette and recipes.
About the Author
Barbara J. Zitwer, is an international literary agent and author of the novel, The J.M. Barrie Ladies' Swimming Society (2012). As an agent, she specialises in Korean literature and has launched the international careers of some of the most celebrated, prize-winning Korean authors, including: Booker Prize winner, Han Kang, author of The Vegetarian and Man Asian Prize winner, Kyung-sook Shin, author of New York Times bestseller, Please Look After Mom.
She lives in New York City with her husband and their two dogs.
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