Familiar Things by Hwang Sok-yong

Set against the backdrop of a sprawling landfill on the outskirts of Seoul, this poignant narrative follows the life of a young boy and his mother who are forced to live among the refuse after being displaced from their home. As they navigate the harsh realities of their new environment, the boy discovers a hidden world of spirits and forgotten histories within the trash, revealing the resilience of human spirit amidst adversity. Through encounters with other marginalized individuals and the ethereal presence of the past, the story explores themes of survival, community, and the enduring connection between people and their environment.

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