48 pages • 1 hour read
Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982: A Novel
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Book Brief
157
Novel • Fiction
South Korea • 2010s
2016
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo, translated by Jamie Chang, follows Kim Jiyoung, a new mother in Seoul, as she begins to exhibit strange behavior by speaking in the voices of other women. Her life story, narrated by her psychiatrist, highlights her experiences with gender discrimination and sexual harassment from childhood through adulthood, underscoring the systemic challenges women face in Korean society.
Informative
Melancholic
Contemplative
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo, translated by Jamie Chang, is praised for its poignant portrayal of gender inequality in South Korea. Critics applaud its straightforward narrative and emotional depth. Some find its didactic tone and statistical incorporations detract from the storytelling. Overall, it sparks important discussions on feminism and social norms.
Who Should Read Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982?
Readers interested in Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo and Transl. Jamie Chang typically appreciate contemporary feminist literature highlighting social issues and gender inequality. Similar to fans of The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood and Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman, they enjoy poignant narratives with strong, relatable female protagonists.
157
Novel • Fiction
South Korea • 2010s
2016
Adult
18+ years
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