A review by meli0706
We Do Not Part by Han Kang

emotional reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

I was interested in reading this book as it is the first published since the author, Kang, won the Nobel prize in literature. Given the writing of this book, it is clear to see why she was awarded the prize, even if this likely will not be one of my favorites. The storyline definitely leaves much inconclusive and that is on purpose, probably because in life there are not always clear answers despite how much we may want them. Part of the book is about the friendship between two middle aged women and one being asked to care for a pet of the other while she is in the hospital, but then we get a blurring of reality and what is life, death, and the in-between. Mixed in with this is an interesting look at the history of Korea in the period after World War II and the horrors inflicted on many of the people. This is not the first book I have read that delves into Korean history and I do always find these aspects enlightening, as it is definitely a gap in my own historical understanding.