Miss Kim Knows: And Other Stories [Paperback]

These eight stories feature women of all ages who struggle with discrimination, domestic violence, dysfunctional workplaces, and domesticity. Nam-joo even takes inspiration from her own life for a story in which a Seoul-based author releases a divisive feminist novel. (Nam-joo was both celebrated and derided for her 2020 international best-seller, K Despite her characters hardships and disappointments, there is mischief and glee to be found in these pages. Set in Korea, these stories give readers a hard look at the universality found among humans. This is another winner for Cho and a good selection for readers who are looking for bite-sized stories to ponder. These brief stories pack quite a bit into their narratives. In her provocatively insightful eight-story collection, lauded Korean writer Cho again centers women at home, school, work, out in the world, and cloistered in old age. Chos repeated use of Kim for unrelated characters surnames, including in her internationally bestselling Spare but never stark, weary but never despairing, Chos trim prose examines the under-seen world of women with a keen appreciation for all the possibilities for their livesincluding the ones they themselves may not be able to imagine. This subtle collection is elegant, honest, and empowering. Fueled by a palpable sense of rebellion.... Taken together, the chorus of voices produces a stirring feminist anthem.