I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki

The bestselling Korean book, skillfully translated by International Booker nominee Anton Hur, resonates deeply with those who find a disconnect between their public personas and true inner feelings. "Will strike a chord with anyone who feels that their public life is at odds with how they really feel inside," says Red. In this narrative, a psychiatrist asks, "So how can I help you?" and the protagonist replies, "I don't know, I'm – what’s the word – depressed? Do I have to go into detail?" Baek Sehee, a young and accomplished social media director at a publishing house, consults a psychiatrist about her state, often wondering if it's a case of depression. She frequently experiences feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, and self-doubt, paired with a tendency to judge others harshly. Despite these feelings, she maintains a composed facade at work and among friends, expertly managing the appearance her role requires. However, this façade is both exhausting and isolating, preventing her from cultivating meaningful relationships. Despite this bleakness, Baek is still able to derive joy from one thing: her love for tteokbokki, her favorite spicy rice cake. Perhaps this is a reflection of life’s complexity. Over a three-month period, she records her sessions with the psychiatrist, gradually unraveling the cycles of negative thought patterns and automatic responses that keep her trapped in self-destructive habits. As both a memoir and a guide for self-improvement, "I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki" serves as a comforting companion, especially during challenging times.