Books Connect People and the World, Two New Books Reveal

The enduring power and diverse connections forged through books are explored in two recent publications: "Lines Crossing Book Club" by Lee Soo-young and "Books Do Not Die" by Takefumi Ishibashi. These books invite readers, whether avid bibliophiles, lapsed readers, or those new to reading, to rediscover the allure of bookstores and libraries.

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Books serve as conduits connecting individuals to people and the wider world, ensuring their continued relevance.

Lee Soo-young, who has managed the Dongdaegu neighborhood bookstore 'Hago' for a decade, shares her passion for various reading groups in "Lines Crossing Book Club." Her life is a testament to the book club experience, encompassing "mixed reading" groups where members read on the spot, psychology book clubs, brick-and-mortar book clubs, book clubs for self-employed women, and one-day book clubs. She eloquently recounts the formation of these clubs, the vibrant interactions among members, and the life wisdom gleaned from running the bookstore.

"Books Do Not Die" is the latest work from Takefumi Ishibashi, known for his insightful "Bookstores Do Not Die," which offered unique perspectives to the Korean publishing and bookstore industries. Ishibashi, who worked in sales at a publishing house and later as an editor-in-chief for a specialized weekly magazine, views books and bookstores as crucial elements in shaping his life. He shares personal anecdotes, such as his mother creating a book from his childhood diaries and his high school memories of discovering music criticism through a friend's bookshelf. His journey has been consistently intertwined with books and the people who cherish them.

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He describes bookstores as 'symbols that change the world without seizing power.'

Ishibashi describes bookstores as "symbols that change the world without seizing power." He also characterizes bookshop owners as individuals who "do not flow in the same direction as everyone else" and who "do not wear a bored expression saying 'that's just how the world is.'" Though from different backgrounds, both authors convey a similar message: books serve as conduits connecting individuals to people and the wider world, ensuring their continued relevance.

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He also characterizes bookshop owners as individuals who 'do not flow in the same direction as everyone else' and who 'do not wear a bored expression saying 'that's just how the world is.'