This novel tells the story of Yeong-hye, a dutiful Korean wife who, after having a disturbing dream, becomes a vegetarian, a decision that disrupts her marriage and sets into motion an increasingly grotesque chain of events at home. As her rebellion manifests in ever more bizarre and frightening forms, Yeong-hye spirals further and further into her fantasies of abandoning her fleshly prison and becoming - impossibly, ecstatically - a tree. The book is a darkly allegorical, Kafkaesque tale of power, obsession, and one woman’s struggle to break free from the violence both without and within her.

This novel is a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and the human spirit set against the backdrop of 1980s South Korea, a time of intense political turmoil. Through the eyes of a young woman named Jung Yoon, the narrative delves into the profound connections she forms with her friends amidst the societal upheaval. As they navigate their way through personal loss, political activism, and the trials of young adulthood, the story beautifully captures the essence of relying on one another during times of distress. The novel is a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the ways in which it can provide solace and strength in the face of adversity.