[ABOUT THE AUTHOR]

In her early thirties, driven by the desire to become a writer, she began to write. Even before publishing her first book, she immersed herself in the life of a full-time writer. Living as a writer, she truly became one. She read and wrote and often went out for walks. As someone who appreciates solitary activities more than anything else, she values the tranquility provided by the simplicity and monotony of everyday life.

*Information provided by Kyobo Bookstore.*

[REVIEW FROM THE KOREAN PUBLISHER]

Winner of the Japan Bookseller’s Prize 2024!

Global bestseller in countries such as the UK, USA, Australia, Singapore, and Brazil.

The novel "Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop" by Hwang Bo-reum took first place in the Translated Fiction category at the 2024 Japan Bookseller’s Prize. The awards, which began in 2004, determine their winners through a direct vote by bookshop staff in Japan, who select the most interesting and recommendable book for customers.

The awards in the Translated Fiction category were established in 2012, and this is the third time a Korean novel has won first place, following "Almonds" in 2020 and "서른의 반" (not yet translated into Portuguese, but the title could be close to "Counterattack at Thirty") in 2022, both by Won-pyung Sohn. Now, in 2024, the novel "Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop" joins this prestigious list.

“Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop” started as an e-book on the Millie Library (a digital e-book platform) and, due to high reader demand, was transformed into a physical book. In no time, it became a global bestseller, not only in Korea but also in countries such as the UK, USA, Australia, Singapore, and Brazil.

In her acceptance speech for the Japan Bookseller’s Prize 2024, Hwang Bo-reum stated:

“I started writing this novel during a period of uncertainty in my life, when my mind was unstable and things weren’t going well. Through characters who step away from the spotlight, I wanted to convey that life continues regardless of the path chosen. I support everyone who seems to have strayed from their path, just as I once did.”

Responding to requests from early readers, the novel has been reborn in physical book form.

Shortly after its release, it reached the top 10 bestsellers on the e-book platform and received 150 reader reviews. It was widely praised, with comments such as: “I want to have the physical book! It’s a book I want to own”; “It provides a sense of comfort throughout the reading”; “If only this place existed in reality, not just as a novel”; “A novel that serves as a remedy for the weariness of daily life,” among others.

Among the projects awarded in the Brunchbook e-book publishing program, Hwang Bo-reum's novel, "Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop," stands out as the most popular.

In an era dominated by films filled with intriguing twists, why does a smoothly flowing novel manage to touch people’s hearts so deeply? It’s because this novel addresses fundamental issues that are essential in our lives but are often forgotten along the way.

In a world where we are constantly busy, with no time to breathe, this novel presents itself as a “breath of fresh air.” It offers profound insights on how to face life, relationships, and ultimately, how to live. As some reading critics note: “Undoubtedly, it’s a novel written by an author who possesses a deep understanding of life.”

The work is a novel that unfolds a profound philosophy of life within the cozy environment of a local bookshop. Just like the characters, you may also feel welcomed when you “enter” this bookshop.

The author, who deeply understands life, creates a novel as realistic as reality itself.

The novel explores the theme of overcoming adversity and moving forward, seen through the eyes of ordinary characters who reflect our own reality. The issues addressed are as tangible and specific as those we face daily, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the depicted world as if living their own stories.

In addition to awakening empathy, the work offers concrete solutions for living more fully, providing readers not only with hope but with a hope sustained by compelling evidence.

Perhaps that’s why readers who dive into “Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop” often express a wish for such a bookshop to actually exist. You might feel the same way. This book offers moments of comfort and relaxing laughter for those of us who are tired and worn out from our busy daily lives.

t is a book that gives you the courage to face hidden wounds and the opportunity to leave the past behind and live with bravery. As you step into the story of the Hyunam-dong Bookshop, so realistic and welcoming, and spend time with its characters, you will once again realize that a life shared with good people is truly a successful life.

*Information provided by Kyobo Bookstore.*

["HOW ABOUT VISITING A LOCAL BOOKSHOP TOO?"]

Aigo Livros was born in Bom Retiro (Sao Paulo, Brazil) as an independent and multicultural neighborhood bookshop. Its curation features books from East Asian, Spanish-speaking, Eastern European, Arab, and other diaspora migrations. Located within a gallery—the Bom Retiro Shopping Center—Aigo shares various workshops with specialists, teachers, and authors, and also has a space dedicated to children's literature on the second floor.

Aigo Bookstore in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Address: Rua Ribeiro de Lima 453, store 73, Bom Retiro, São Paulo-SP

Instagram: @aigolivros