Return to the Dallergut Dream Department Store - Miye Lee, Translated by Sandy Joosun Lee

Overall 5/5 stars

This new duology has become my favourite! I devoured the second book in just one day while cyclone Alfred knocked out our power, leading to an unexpected reading spree. The emotional depth of this story resonates with me, perhaps because it reflects aspects of my own life or due to my longing to work in a place like the enchanting department store depicted within its pages. This Korean bestseller has sold over a million copies. Skilfully translated by Sandy Joosun Lee and crafted by the brilliant Miye Lee, these books transport you to a mesmerising dream realm where humans and animals from around the world gather in their sleepwear to explore various adventures in the department store, with each floor tailored to deliver custom dreams.

The second instalment delves deeper into the dream industry, blending career development with the allure of fantastical dreams. Join Penny on her journey as she navigates her new job, clarifying her career aspirations while gaining insight into how the dream industry operates. You'll meet a diverse cast of characters, each relatable and intriguing in their personalities and appearances. Discover the unique coexistence of the dream realm and the real world.

This enchanting book invites you to immerse yourself in a dreamlike realm while skilfully intertwining moral lessons and emotional narratives that encourage you to think beyond your own experience. By connecting with diverse characters and understanding their perspectives, you gain insight into their lives. Some characters may evoke anger, while others may evoke sadness, reflecting the complexities of human experience. In a time when entitlement and selfishness seem prevalent, this book offers a refreshing return to kindness, allowing you to empathise with each character’s feelings.

I appreciate that the purpose of the department store in the story is not only to inspire dreams but also to provide clarity for the challenges faced in reality. This beautifully crafted book, filled with imaginative elements and rich details, creates a space for you to explore your own creativity. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend this duology and find myself wishing for more books in this captivating series. It’s a beautifully crafted story that I wish could come to life!