- ...you are looking for a new, fresh perspective on happiness, beyond Western recipes.
- ...you are fascinated by Korean culture and Eastern philosophies.
- ...you want to learn practical ways to cultivate resilience, gratitude, and inner harmony.
- ...you believe that true happiness lies in simplicity and authentic connection with others and nature.
The Korean Book of Happiness invites you to explore a captivating culture and learn the Korean way to live a fuller and happier life.
In this insightful and enchanting book, Zitwer shares what she has learned from this fascinating country: a diverse and global cultural and industrial giant with a special dedication to the ancient philosophies of han, heung, and jeong (resilience, joy, and the art of giving).
We follow Zitwer as she travels from the bustling capital of Seoul to a meeting with Buddhist nuns in the mountains, from the quirky theme park in the Demilitarized Zone to the tropical island of Jeju, the birthplace of haenyeo, the elderly female divers, who inspire the respect of all. She shares with us funny stories from her cultural faux pas, travel recommendations, and local recipes, as well as magical moments of understanding and connection.
“A monk invited me for tea, along with an interpreter. I confided in him how stressful my life had been the past year, as my husband had undergone complicated surgery. I started to cry. The monk wasted no time. Before he heard my translated words, he changed the subject. ‘Now we are happy,’ he said gently. In other words: I was wasting precious moments of the present by carrying the stress of the past. The key was the perspective.”
This book is for you if...
What will help you improve?
The principles of Korean philosophy will help you improve:
- Your ability to find joy and meaning in simple, everyday habits.
- Your resilience in the face of difficulties, drawing strength from community and tradition.
- Your relationship with yourself, embracing imperfection and cultivating self-compassion.
- Your appreciation for small rituals that can transform your daily life.
The Method: What to Expect?
The book takes you on a journey through the four seasons of Korean wisdom. Inside, you will find:
- An exploration of the fundamental principles of Korean philosophy for happiness, such as nunchi (the art of reading situations) and jeong (the deep emotional connection).
- Practical advice, recipes, and rituals inspired by Korean culture.
- A beautifully illustrated book that visually transports you to the world of Korean tradition.
- A warm, personal, and loving narrative that inspires you to live more simply and beautifully.
The opinion of the experts
Barbara J. Zitwer is not just an author, but an "ambassador" of Korean culture in the West. As a literary agent, she has introduced many Korean writers to the international audience. In this book, she distills her many years of experience and deep love for Korea into an authentic guide. Her credibility stems from her real, experiential connection with the culture she writes about.
About the Author
Barbara J. Zitwer is an American literary agent, producer, and author. She is globally renowned for her pivotal role in promoting contemporary Korean literature on the international stage. Her deep knowledge and love for Korean culture make her the ideal guide to the secrets of the Korean art of happiness.
Manufacturer
Product Guides
- Author
- Barbara J. Zitwer
- Publisher
- Dioptra
- Award
- -
- Language
- Greek
- Cover
- Soft
- Number of Pages
- 248
- Release Date
- 07/02/2024
- Publication Date
- 2024
- Dimensions
- 14x20.5 cm
- ISBN-13
- 9786182204405
Important information
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