A satisfied smile surely awaits readers of The Rainfall Market, the bestselling debut fantasy by Korean author You Yeong-Gwang, arriving in an inviting English translation from Slin Jung. The feel-good, magical narrative features a teen's self-discovery quest with (slightly) softened reminders of universal, contemporary societal challenges.
Serin's father died, leaving the family poor. Their home burned down, forcing a move into a building that is now slated for demolition. Her mother is overworked; her younger sister ran away a year earlier without any further contact. Serin is finishing high school soon but has "no chance of saving enough for university." One night, with nothing to lose, Serin chooses to believe a local legend about the Rainfall Market and writes a long letter describing her difficult life.
Two months later, Serin finds a "vivid red envelope in the letterbox." Inside is an unusual offer: "Would you be interested in selling us your misfortune? At the Rainfall Market, you will have the chance to trade in your misfortune for a happier story in our stock." When the rainy season finally arrives, Serin rushes to the Rainfall Market, where she meets numerous Dokkaebi--mythical Korean goblins, some kind, some not. Her misfortunes earn her significant amount of gold coins that allow her to shop throughout the market. Serin's new wealth means she'll have many lives to try; she just needs to choose the one by the end of the rainy season. What she'll discover--with the help of her puppy-like guide-kitty Issha--will, of course, be full of unexpected surprises. The Rainfall Market's undeniable antidotal qualities will surely soothe minds and warm hearts. --Terry Hong