Being a fan of Korean entertainment is like going down a rabbit hole. No matter where you start from, whether that be K-Pop, K-Dramas, or simply Korean culture, you end up wanting to know more and more about your favorite stars and their interests, thus exploring myriad new things that you might not have considered in the first place. One such way of expanding your horizons is by following book recommendations that your favorite idols or actors share with their fans, especially if you're an avid reader or are trying to get into the habit.
This is Booked & Busy, a Kpopmap series where we explore the reading habits and book recommendations of your favorite idols, and the star of this week's article is TEMPEST's LEW.
LEW reads when he wants to spend a warm, restful day by himself. He reads when he wants to learn more about how to be a competent leader. He picks up a book to draw inspiration for his lyrics, and the deep sentiments he encounters help him create. Sometimes, he even sets up a goal to read as many books as possible. LEW reads, so he speaks like poetry. He reads, so he is empathetic, wise, and knowledgeable. He reads so he can be a better person, and he recommends these books for us to feel the same fulfillment and happiness he did. LEW is someone to look up to, and if you've been looking for your next read, look no further!
From self-improvement to slice-of-life, LEW's recommendations will open up a new world to you. So, let's talk about some of them, shall we?
1. "The Miracle of 100 Days of English Transcription" by Leah Jean Kim
Genre/Type: Self Help
Keywords: Empowerment, Self-discovery, Transformation
About: "The Miracle of 100 Days of English Transcription" is a self-improvement book that helps you change your life in just 10 minutes a day by establishing a habit of transcribing English healing messages daily and listening to native speaker MP3s during your commute.
Read Because: LEW introduced this book on V-Live and later mentioned that he would be sure to complete the 100-day challenge. For readers who are trying to learn English, this book can be a great place to start, but that is not the only purpose it serves. It emphasizes that you are the hero of your own story, and there are no villains in it except for the lies you tell yourself. By overcoming fear, healing wounds, and freeing yourself from emotional constraints, you can experience true freedom. The book guides you to break free from the stagnation of life and focus on what truly matters with the help of the wholesome and profound English messages that you have to transcribe. By following the 10-minute routine daily, step by step, you will discover what you truly desire and find personal growth and fulfillment. This book would make an excellent gift to someone you love.
Get this book here!
2. "Uncanny Convenience Store" by Kim HoYeon
Genre/Type: Slice-of-life
Keywords: Healing, Empathy, Community
About: Set in a small convenience store located in the alley of Cheongpa-dong, an old neighborhood in Seoul, "Uncanny Convenience Store" warmly and humorously portrays the inner lives, joys, and sorrows of ordinary people who navigate through challenging times. It follows our protagonist DokGo, a homeless man, who finds a part-time job at a convenience store. Despite his large bear-like appearance and suffering from alcohol-induced dementia, which makes him unable to remember the past and speak clearly, doubts arise about whether he can properly serve customers. However, surprisingly, he excels at his job and captivates those around him, gradually becoming a reliable worker who guards the convenience store throughout the night and a core part of the neighborhood.
Read Because: This book was so engrossing that LEW took around 4 to 5 hours to read it all. According to him, the story is fresh, and the plot is well-paced, which kept him engaged until the end. It warmed LEW's heart and left him with a cozy feeling. Who doesn't love that? LEW also mentioned that if you get a chance to read this book, he recommends comparing the perspectives and perceptions of the supporting characters toward the protagonist, as it adds to the enjoyment.
Moreover, "Uncanny Convenience Store" is a best-selling novel that is reportedly in the works for a play and a K-Drama adaptation at the time of writing. So, if you haven't had the chance to pick it up yet, now is the perfect time to give it a read.
Get this book here!
3. "Leaders Don't Praise" by Ichiro Kishimi
RHK / yes24
Genre/Type: Self-Help
Keywords: Leadership, Psychology, Myth-busting
About: "Leaders Don't Praise" by Ichiro Kishimi presents a fresh perspective on leadership for today's changing world. Based on Adlerian psychology, the book promotes a democratic approach that emphasizes equal relationships and dialogue between leaders and employees. It challenges common misconceptions about leadership and offers practical guidance for aspiring leaders. Part 1 addresses psychological challenges and provides insights for navigating confusion, while Part 2 includes Q&A sessions with experienced leaders.
Read Because: This is the book that had a significant influence on LEW's leadership philosophy. He has read it three times now, going from perceiving it as idealistic to practical and efficient, and it has helped him broaden his values and gain courage. LEW recommends it for anyone who wants to create smooth teamwork within their organization, not only for those who are already in a leadership position, as it contains advice and know-how applicable to situations that everyone can relate to. However, he believes that values are something we create for ourselves, so the book should be used as a reference.
Get this book here!
4. "The Warmth Shared by the Dog in the Moment of Farewell" by Akayama Mitsuko
neofiction / yes24
Genre/Type: Slice-of-life
Keywords: Philosophy, Connection, Warmth
About: A heartwarming novel containing stories of how dogs, our canine friends, bring comfort and happiness to us with their unconditional love and endless kindness. It celebrates the unique bond between humans and dogs, reminding readers of their incredible capacity to provide companionship and a sense of belonging. Prepare to be moved by the touching tales demonstrating the transformative power of, quite literally, "puppy love" and the profound connections they forge with us.
Read Because: LEW drew inspiration from this book and the one mentioned below while writing his lyrics. He also shared that he was able to sympathize with his pet dog Charles while reading it. In addition, what makes this book even more special than it already is, is the fact that the tales are inspired by true stories of real dogs, whose pictures are even featured at the end of the novel!
Get this book here!
5. "The Precious Thing Taught by the Cat at the Depths of Sadness" by Takimori Goto
neofiction / yes24
Genre/Type: Slice-of-life
Keywords: Happiness, Destiny, Family
About: "The Precious Lessons Taught by Cats at the Depths of Sadness" is a bestselling Japanese novel that explores profound philosophical questions through encounters with cats. It is a tale of enlightenment, portraying something truly precious that money can't buy. Divided into four interconnected parts, each story presents a unique aspect of the human experience through stories with cats. While the initial impression may suggest a detective mystery, the novel beautifully portrays the bonds between parents, siblings, and the lovable cats.
Read Because: "The Precious Lessons Taught by Cats at the Depths of Sadness" is a wonderfully poignant study of the feeling of being saved by a creature as enigmatic and adorable as a cat. Each story in this novel stands independently yet is interconnected, and when you reach the final story, it completes one grand narrative. As all the connections are revealed towards the end, you cannot help but feel thrilled. If you raise cats or are fond of them, this book is definitely one that you will relate to and identify with, but it will undoubtedly be enjoyable for animal lovers in general as it shines a brilliant spotlight on the connection between humans and animals.
Get this book here!
6. "How We Learn: Why Brains Learn Better Than Any Machine . . . for Now" by Stanislas Dehaene
Penguin Books
Genre/Type: Non-fiction
Keywords: Psychology, Education, Neuroscience
About: "How We Learn: Why Brains Learn Better Than Any Machine... for Now" is an insightful and thought-provoking book that delves into the fascinating world of human learning. Written by an expert in neuroscience and cognitive psychology, the book explores the remarkable abilities of the human brain to acquire and process knowledge, surpassing even the most advanced machines.
Read Because: LEW enjoys reading about self-improvement the most. Let this book tell you why. Uncovering the secrets of memory formation, problem-solving, attention, and creativity, “How We Learn” provides insights to enhance your learning techniques. It explores the contrasting realms of human and machine learning, illuminating the future of education and work in an AI-driven world. If you’re worried about this book being too much of an academic read, fear not. It presents complex ideas in an engaging and accessible manner, making it a must-read for those fascinated by the wonders of the human brain.
Get this book here!
Would you join LEW's book club? Tell us in the comments section down below!
You can find all our "Booked & Busy" articles featuring more bibliophile idols here.
