Winter in Sokcho: Book review






Book Review

Title: Winter in Sokcho
Author: Elisa Shua Dusapin
Genre: FictionTranslation (Korean)

Winter in Sokcho is a book that can be read in one sitting. 

It starts off with our protagonist-an unnamed narrator who we learn has just returned from University of Seoul to her hometown in Sokcho.She works as a receptionist in a run down hotel and her life is pretty mundane with her boyfriend, a mother who she doesn't want to live with and doing the regular chores. Things change with the arrival of a French artist named Kerrand. Taking her help, Kerrand explores the town of Sokcho and they form an unusual relationship. 

One of the strengths of the book is its atmospheric setting of the gloomy winter. The evocative prose lends well to the connections between the characters and also succeeds in making Winter a powerful character at times. It has an effect on other characters' lives.   The author's characterization of the unnamed female narrator is also interesting. She explores her mind, body and eating habits, and subtly touches upon certain identity issues. However, there are times readers yearn to learn more about the narrator and whether she possibly faces mental health issues. 

The vivid details and descriptions of the food lends to the authenticity of the setting. 
Another highlight is the dynamics between the two characters-Kerrand and the unnamed narrator. While he is old enough to be her father, the narrator feels a strange attraction towards him. This unusual rapport is similar to the dynamics in the characters in the Japanese title Strange Weather in Tokyo. The narrative style is compelling and draws the readers into this world of divided boundaries and identities. We subtly learn about the history of North Korea and South Korea, the diving women from Jeju island and the dual nationality of the narrator. The incredible part of this book is its ability to transport you to a different place and also make the mundane things in life seem extraordinary. 

Winter in Sokcho offers some interesting conversations, a brooding setting, a simple yet an evocative story. 

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