The Korean Book of Happiness: A journey across South Korea in pursuit of joy

by Barbara J. Zitwer

192 pages, Paperback

Published January 7, 2025

About the author

Barbara J. Zitwer is a graduate of Columbia Film School, has written screenplays and worked as a film producer. She owns a renowned literary agency in New York, where she lives with her husband and her two dogs. Most of her childhood was spent on the beaches of Montauk, and ever since she could not shake the fascination of the whales and the magic of the sea.

Reviews

[Ramyasmruthi Talanki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Han, Heung and Jeong….the three philosophies that are core to Korea. As you travel across Korea in the book, you can experience these philosophies. Reading this book has made me realise how many Korea’s customs, traditions, practices are parallel to India. Especially stay in temples which sound very similar to staying in temple like Dharmasthala where you get to take classes and be exposed to simple yet healthy vegetarian food. The philosophy that most struck to me was Han- as the author said it’s difficult to define it but in simple words it’s the grit , the endurance that people and the nation shows towards facing the struggles and misery of life.
I would also like to add that this book is truly a guide if you are planning to visit Korea. There are website and addresses given to places that you may not find in your tour package.

[Grace Vickers · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars. Although there are some really interesting facts and wholesome moments, sometimes it felt more like I was reading a travel brochure than a book. There was also a certain attitude at parts of the book that annoyed me a little; being rude when asked her age, trying to take a dog home only to send it back, expecting Korea to accommodate to western tourists (entitlement??) etc.
Ultimately the book did appeal to me and I am more interested in visiting South Korea. It’s just not what I thought it would be, less self help more personal travel diary.

[Naomi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Didn't enjoy as much as I'd hoped. Some nice moments, but fell a bit flat. Felt in many parts like a book on how wealthy Americans should travel around South Korea.