Bestselling author Lee Mi-ye returns with a New Book “Office Pantry”
-
Loading... - Aoi Shimizu
- 08 Aug 2024
- 43 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
Bestselling author Lee Mi-ye, known for her hit novel "DallerGut Dream Department Store," which sold over 1.5 million copies in Korea, has made a striking return with a new book, "Office Pantry." This latest work ventures into the realm of hyperrealism, exploring the everyday nuisances and frustrations found in the workplace.
"Office Pantry" centers around the petty office annoyances that nearly everyone can relate to. The novel poses a simple but provocative question: "Who do you dislike the most?" The story unfolds in a seven-day reality show where participants, notorious for their irritating habits in the office pantry, are voted by their coworkers as the "least desirable colleagues" to share the space with. The participants are clueless as to why they were chosen, adding a layer of intrigue and humor to the narrative.
Among the colorful cast of characters are individuals who freeze coffee in the communal ice tray, hoard instant coffee mix, unplug the microwave to charge their phones, or pile up used paper cups. There's even a self-proclaimed environmentalist who ironically leaves unwashed tumblers in the sink. The interactions among these characters are both amusing and revealing, as they are forced to confront their own and others' irritating behaviors.
To add to the drama, one of the participants is an imposter, strategically placed to stir up tension and add complexity to the show. The participants spend the week gathering clues and scrutinizing each other in an effort to unmask the imposter. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that even the most well-intentioned actions can cause discomfort and annoyance to others, highlighting the often-overlooked dynamics of office life.
Lee's previous work, "DallerGut Dream Department Store," has also been made available in English, translated by Sandy Joosun Lee, allowing international readers to enjoy her unique storytelling. With "Office Pantry," Lee continues to captivate readers by delving into the hyperrealistic quirks of human behavior, all while offering a humorous and insightful commentary on office culture.
