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3.16 AVERAGE
3.16 AVERAGE
lighthearted
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
rate : 2.5/5
I decided to read this book solely for Jessica since I was a part of the fandom back when I was in Junior High School. and, It was okay. This book radiates kpop fanfic vibes that I used to read back in mid-school. The plot is super flat, cliché, kinda choppy (especially for some of the last chapters) and sadly I have no profound feeling for any of the characters. The writings is just decent, I know it’s probably because this is her debut novel (and from this book I hope she grow more as a writer). However, she did such a great job on exposing some of the problematic issues in kpop industry, specifically about the double standard and how toxic kpop entertainment company could be.
I decided to read this book solely for Jessica since I was a part of the fandom back when I was in Junior High School. and, It was okay. This book radiates kpop fanfic vibes that I used to read back in mid-school. The plot is super flat, cliché, kinda choppy (especially for some of the last chapters) and sadly I have no profound feeling for any of the characters. The writings is just decent, I know it’s probably because this is her debut novel (and from this book I hope she grow more as a writer). However, she did such a great job on exposing some of the problematic issues in kpop industry, specifically about the double standard and how toxic kpop entertainment company could be.
Singer, fashion designer and actress Jessica Jung’s debut novel Shine is the story of a young girl pursuing her dream to be part of the next K-Pop group. Topped with delicious food, glamorous landscapes and dramatic moments, the novel shines a light on the importance of Asian culture and representation, female empowerment and the motivation for our protagonist to become a K-pop singer in the first place.
Fans of the contemporary young-adult genre will be able to glean the prevalent influence and style found in many beloved young adult series and adaptations, mixing genres of drama, romance and comedy, matched with recent references and celebrity name drops.
It might be a bit optimistic, but it would have been nice to see them build more on girl friendships, as there were just so many catty and rude characters at every turn that it seemed relentless. There was a glimpse of character development, which quickly relapses. However, this just might be a realistically honest take on how competitive and grueling life is as a trainee. Still, the novel could benefit from a variety of distinguishing personality traits, to differentiate the multiple characters introduced.
For fans of K-pop, Shine works as an insider look, hearing Jung’s innermost thoughts through the main character’s voice, having anecdotal stories when bringing up traditions and the environment to the rules and double standards of the trainee life, in the arduous journey to make it in the ruthless world of entertainment. Sprinkling in Korean terminology and common phrases throughout, it would be helpful to add a glossary to refer to all the words introduced for non-Korean readers.
As a long-time fan of K-pop, Jessica Jung and Girls’ Generation, this is a treat, as we can’t help but try to connect how much of the book is inspired by real events versus fiction. Describing her thought processes for each action, the book allows us to be engrossed in the perspective of the main character, what drives her and her passions. The narration is so detailed you can practically visualize each scene as it plays out. Overall, Shine is a thoroughly enjoyable and insightful read, and it will be interesting to see what the adaptation and sequel, Bright, bring.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada as well as NetGalley for granting me this advanced reader’s copy, it is greatly appreciated!
Fans of the contemporary young-adult genre will be able to glean the prevalent influence and style found in many beloved young adult series and adaptations, mixing genres of drama, romance and comedy, matched with recent references and celebrity name drops.
It might be a bit optimistic, but it would have been nice to see them build more on girl friendships, as there were just so many catty and rude characters at every turn that it seemed relentless. There was a glimpse of character development, which quickly relapses. However, this just might be a realistically honest take on how competitive and grueling life is as a trainee. Still, the novel could benefit from a variety of distinguishing personality traits, to differentiate the multiple characters introduced.
For fans of K-pop, Shine works as an insider look, hearing Jung’s innermost thoughts through the main character’s voice, having anecdotal stories when bringing up traditions and the environment to the rules and double standards of the trainee life, in the arduous journey to make it in the ruthless world of entertainment. Sprinkling in Korean terminology and common phrases throughout, it would be helpful to add a glossary to refer to all the words introduced for non-Korean readers.
As a long-time fan of K-pop, Jessica Jung and Girls’ Generation, this is a treat, as we can’t help but try to connect how much of the book is inspired by real events versus fiction. Describing her thought processes for each action, the book allows us to be engrossed in the perspective of the main character, what drives her and her passions. The narration is so detailed you can practically visualize each scene as it plays out. Overall, Shine is a thoroughly enjoyable and insightful read, and it will be interesting to see what the adaptation and sequel, Bright, bring.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada as well as NetGalley for granting me this advanced reader’s copy, it is greatly appreciated!
One of several Asian-American books that have been released lately. This book is similar to XOXO and I enjoyed both. I really didn't know much about Korean culture or K-Pop. A fun romance.
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
emotional
hopeful
informative
medium-paced
Loveable characters:
Yes
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I have been a kpop fan since 2004 but this book is horribly written, even for a "light read".