The Second Chance Convenience Store by Kim Ho-Yeon: Seoul Station is home to Dokgo, a humble man who has no memories of his past. Until one day his low-key existence is disrupted when he stumbles upon a lost wallet. His honesty triggers a chain of events that are set to change the course of his life and the mindset of those he encounters.
Then enters Mrs. Yeom, a retired teacher who is now a convenience-store owner. When she learns of Dokgo’s act of kindness in returning her purse, she offers him a meal as a token of her gratitude. This unplanned encounter grows into an unforeseen alliance when the man’s unexpected bravery saves the store from ruin. This unselfish act earns him, not just employment, but a place in the heart of the neighbourhood.
Just when things are looking up for Dokgo, however, Mrs. Yeom’s troubled son, who is eager to sell the store, hires a detective to find information about this mysterious man’s past and discover what he appears to be trying so hard to forget . . .
This is a sensitively written novel that will tear at the reader’s heartstrings. It has beautifully crafted characters and an air of tenderness (or suspicion) as they react with each other. The store itself provides solace, warmth and comforting foodstuffs.
A heart-wrenching, but beautifully written, must-read from this wonderfully humanitarian author.
Translated from Korean by Janet Hong.
ISBN: 9781035032891
The Second Chance Convenience Store is available in hardback, paperback, e-book and audiobook.
About Kim Ho-Yeon
Kim Ho-Yeon has worked as a novelist, playwright, and comic book writer. Considered a complete storyteller, he won the 9th Segye Literary Prize (offered by the Segye Ilbo newspaper ) in 2013, and in 2021, was awarded Yes24 Book of the Year and Millie Audiobook of the Year. His work stands out for the humanity conveyed by his characters, always inspiring, and for stories that remind us of our own lives. He lives in Seoul.
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