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잘했고 잘하고 있고 잘 될 것이다
독보적 에세이스트 정영욱의 세대를 초월하는 위로와 응원
2021년 5월 출간 후, 1년간 20만 부 이상의 판매 기록을 세우며 에세이 베스트셀러에 굳건히 자리 잡은 『잘했고 잘하고 있고 잘될 것이다』가 50만 부 기념 전면 개정판으로 독자들 앞에 다시 나타났다. 전체적으로 문장을 다듬어 완성도를 높이는 데에 마음을 기울였다. 독자들에게 더욱 정갈한 위로를 건네고자 하는 작가의 마음이라. 외에도 미공개 원고 9편이 추가되었다. 『참 애썼다 그것으로 되었다』, 『나를 사랑하는 연습』, 『잔잔하게 그러나 단단하게』 등 이전 도서를 통해 40만 독자에게 사랑받은 작가 정영욱은 이 책을 통해 한결같이 당신의 과거와 현재, 그리고 미래를 응원한다.
“당신 참으로 힘들었겠다. 참 바빴을 테고, 그만큼 허겁지겁 달렸을 테고, 그래서 넘어졌을 테고, 까진 상처에 아팠을 테고, 그리고 다시 일어난대도 아주 지쳐 있을 테지. 아픈 마음 다독일 새 없이 나아가다 쓰린 곳 다시 다쳤을 테지.”
정영욱 작가는 말한다. 당신의 힘듦을, 당신의 아픈 상처와 지친 마음을 알고 있다고. 관성처럼 또다시 찾아오는 내일을 맞이하고 싶지 않은 당신이, 이 책을 읽었으면 좋겠다. 지난하고 외로운 오늘을 보낸 당신을, 어느 한 사람이 응원할 것이다. 우리가 우리를 응원할 것이다. 아무것도 묻지 않고, 조건 없이, 이유 없이.
당장의 하루가 못 견디게 외롭고 힘들더라도, 당신의 마음을 알아주는 사람이 없는 거 같아서 막막하더라도, 당신이 살아온 매일의 하루가 겹치고 쌓여 맑게 갠 푸른 하늘처럼 선명할 것이라는 걸 잊지 말기를. 설움 없이 자라는 것은 아무것도 없다. 오늘의 당신은 언젠가의 당신을 이룰 밑거름이니, 두려워하지 말고 그저 나아가면 된다. 변함없이 잘 살아내느라 당신 정말 고생 많았다.
그러니 오늘 밤은 이 책을 덮고 잠들어 보자.
지친 당신을 혼자 두고 싶지 않은 마음으로 적어 내려간 문장.
“여기 있는 이야기는 나의 이야기이자 당신의 이야기일 것이다.
우리 모두는 전혀 다름없는 힘겨움을 붙잡고 살아가는 것이니.
하지만 힘들어도 기어코 무너지지 않을 삶들이니.
당신, 잘했고, 잘하고 있고, 잘될 것이다.”
2021년 5월 출간 후, 1년간 20만 부 이상의 판매 기록을 세우며 에세이 베스트셀러에 굳건히 자리 잡은 『잘했고 잘하고 있고 잘될 것이다』가 50만 부 기념 전면 개정판으로 독자들 앞에 다시 나타났다. 전체적으로 문장을 다듬어 완성도를 높이는 데에 마음을 기울였다. 독자들에게 더욱 정갈한 위로를 건네고자 하는 작가의 마음이라. 외에도 미공개 원고 9편이 추가되었다. 『참 애썼다 그것으로 되었다』, 『나를 사랑하는 연습』, 『잔잔하게 그러나 단단하게』 등 이전 도서를 통해 40만 독자에게 사랑받은 작가 정영욱은 이 책을 통해 한결같이 당신의 과거와 현재, 그리고 미래를 응원한다.
“당신 참으로 힘들었겠다. 참 바빴을 테고, 그만큼 허겁지겁 달렸을 테고, 그래서 넘어졌을 테고, 까진 상처에 아팠을 테고, 그리고 다시 일어난대도 아주 지쳐 있을 테지. 아픈 마음 다독일 새 없이 나아가다 쓰린 곳 다시 다쳤을 테지.”
정영욱 작가는 말한다. 당신의 힘듦을, 당신의 아픈 상처와 지친 마음을 알고 있다고. 관성처럼 또다시 찾아오는 내일을 맞이하고 싶지 않은 당신이, 이 책을 읽었으면 좋겠다. 지난하고 외로운 오늘을 보낸 당신을, 어느 한 사람이 응원할 것이다. 우리가 우리를 응원할 것이다. 아무것도 묻지 않고, 조건 없이, 이유 없이.
당장의 하루가 못 견디게 외롭고 힘들더라도, 당신의 마음을 알아주는 사람이 없는 거 같아서 막막하더라도, 당신이 살아온 매일의 하루가 겹치고 쌓여 맑게 갠 푸른 하늘처럼 선명할 것이라는 걸 잊지 말기를. 설움 없이 자라는 것은 아무것도 없다. 오늘의 당신은 언젠가의 당신을 이룰 밑거름이니, 두려워하지 말고 그저 나아가면 된다. 변함없이 잘 살아내느라 당신 정말 고생 많았다.
그러니 오늘 밤은 이 책을 덮고 잠들어 보자.
지친 당신을 혼자 두고 싶지 않은 마음으로 적어 내려간 문장.
“여기 있는 이야기는 나의 이야기이자 당신의 이야기일 것이다.
우리 모두는 전혀 다름없는 힘겨움을 붙잡고 살아가는 것이니.
하지만 힘들어도 기어코 무너지지 않을 삶들이니.
당신, 잘했고, 잘하고 있고, 잘될 것이다.”
304 pages, Paperback
First published May 14, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 3, 2025
Book Review: Well Was Well Is Well Be by Owook
Well Was Well Is Well Be is a collection of essays by Korean writer Owook, now available in English, offering a reflective and introspective journey through themes of existence, time, and personal growth.
1. Themes and Style
Owook’s work is characterized by its lyrical prose and philosophical depth. The title itself—Well Was Well Is Well Be—hints at a meditation on the fluidity of time and the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. The essays explore:
Memory and Identity: How personal history shapes the self.
Resilience and Acceptance: Navigating life’s uncertainties with grace.
Everyday Epiphanies: Finding meaning in mundane moments.
The writing style is poetic yet accessible, blending personal anecdotes with universal truths.
2. Structure and Tone
The book appears to follow a non-linear structure, mirroring the fragmented nature of memory. Owook’s tone is contemplative, often tinged with quiet optimism. The essays may vary in length and intensity, creating a rhythm that invites readers to pause and reflect.
3. Cultural and Emotional Resonance
As a Korean essayist, Owook’s perspectives may subtly infuse Eastern philosophies (e.g., mindfulness, impermanence) into Western literary forms. The emotional range spans melancholy to hope, resonating with readers who appreciate nuanced explorations of the human condition.
4. Strengths
Authenticity: Owook’s voice feels intimate and unfiltered.
Universality: While rooted in personal experience, the themes transcend cultural boundaries.
Language: The translation (assuming from Korean) retains a poetic fluidity, as highlighted by readers.
5. Potential Critiques
Pacing: Some essays might feel abstract, requiring patience.
Niche Appeal: Those seeking plot-driven narratives may find it less engaging.
Final Verdict
Well Was Well Is Well Be is a gem for lovers of reflective literature. Owook’s ability to weave existential questions into everyday observations makes this collection a poignant read. Ideal for quiet evenings or moments of self-discovery.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — A thought-provoking, beautifully crafted work that lingers in the mind.
Thanks to the author for a free copy of this book.
Well Was Well Is Well Be is a collection of essays by Korean writer Owook, now available in English, offering a reflective and introspective journey through themes of existence, time, and personal growth.
1. Themes and Style
Owook’s work is characterized by its lyrical prose and philosophical depth. The title itself—Well Was Well Is Well Be—hints at a meditation on the fluidity of time and the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. The essays explore:
Memory and Identity: How personal history shapes the self.
Resilience and Acceptance: Navigating life’s uncertainties with grace.
Everyday Epiphanies: Finding meaning in mundane moments.
The writing style is poetic yet accessible, blending personal anecdotes with universal truths.
2. Structure and Tone
The book appears to follow a non-linear structure, mirroring the fragmented nature of memory. Owook’s tone is contemplative, often tinged with quiet optimism. The essays may vary in length and intensity, creating a rhythm that invites readers to pause and reflect.
3. Cultural and Emotional Resonance
As a Korean essayist, Owook’s perspectives may subtly infuse Eastern philosophies (e.g., mindfulness, impermanence) into Western literary forms. The emotional range spans melancholy to hope, resonating with readers who appreciate nuanced explorations of the human condition.
4. Strengths
Authenticity: Owook’s voice feels intimate and unfiltered.
Universality: While rooted in personal experience, the themes transcend cultural boundaries.
Language: The translation (assuming from Korean) retains a poetic fluidity, as highlighted by readers.
5. Potential Critiques
Pacing: Some essays might feel abstract, requiring patience.
Niche Appeal: Those seeking plot-driven narratives may find it less engaging.
Final Verdict
Well Was Well Is Well Be is a gem for lovers of reflective literature. Owook’s ability to weave existential questions into everyday observations makes this collection a poignant read. Ideal for quiet evenings or moments of self-discovery.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — A thought-provoking, beautifully crafted work that lingers in the mind.
Thanks to the author for a free copy of this book.
July 17, 2025
An enjoyable read. This book is not an ocean of profundity, where each sentence is bursting with some mind-blowing wisdom, but it is a beautiful compilation of little insights into life, life with all its complexities and simplicities. Each sentence gently nudges you towards contentment, urging you to value and cherish more deeply the simple beauties of life: joy and sorrow, food and nature, family and friends.
September 26, 2025
This book is a literary hug. It's packed with quotes that will resonate with you and stay with you, and most importantly, that make you feel seen, heard, and understood.
June 5, 2025
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A Korean version of the usual live in the moment type stuff. Always good to read a slightly different perspective.
A Korean version of the usual live in the moment type stuff. Always good to read a slightly different perspective.
June 24, 2025
gooood
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2025
One day I was listening to a playlist that randomly appeared on my Youtube feeds when I saw the title Well Was Well Is Well Be, and out of curiosity, I ended up purchasing the book.
With the same expectations that I had when I read a few other translated essay books, I didn’t think It would be the kind of book that lingers, however I was pleasantly surprised as by the end of the book, It felt like I was being consoled by a friend rather than being preached at. And I often found myself writing notes and reflecting on how much it applies in the present state of my life. The book became the source of my consolation at times, when there’s no other place to turn to for someone to sit with, just like the title of the playlist I have come across : Even in seas of sadness, there are corners to find refuge .
Owook’s writing is kind, warm, retrospective, and very much personal, covering a variety of topics that any age and people of different walks of life could relate to: Life, connection, career, sorrow, and the depths of solitude we all live with.
Even after finishing the book, some words still remain with me like how the writer beautifully described life as a train running along a track - where people get off and people get on. And by the end, you’ll realize that these are words that will simmer at the bottom of your soul, that at this moment right here and now, you are seen.
On a side note, I found some grammatical errors or formatting issues (like duplicate words or sections?). But the book remains good despite all that so this is highly recommended. I think this has a high re-read value as well.
May it find and resonate with readers from across the world.
With the same expectations that I had when I read a few other translated essay books, I didn’t think It would be the kind of book that lingers, however I was pleasantly surprised as by the end of the book, It felt like I was being consoled by a friend rather than being preached at. And I often found myself writing notes and reflecting on how much it applies in the present state of my life. The book became the source of my consolation at times, when there’s no other place to turn to for someone to sit with, just like the title of the playlist I have come across : Even in seas of sadness, there are corners to find refuge .
Owook’s writing is kind, warm, retrospective, and very much personal, covering a variety of topics that any age and people of different walks of life could relate to: Life, connection, career, sorrow, and the depths of solitude we all live with.
Even after finishing the book, some words still remain with me like how the writer beautifully described life as a train running along a track - where people get off and people get on. And by the end, you’ll realize that these are words that will simmer at the bottom of your soul, that at this moment right here and now, you are seen.
On a side note, I found some grammatical errors or formatting issues (like duplicate words or sections?). But the book remains good despite all that so this is highly recommended. I think this has a high re-read value as well.
May it find and resonate with readers from across the world.
April 29, 2025
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for choosing me.
This book felt like a warm, comforting hug the entire way through. I am certain that I will be reflecting on what I read for a long time to come. I am also certain I will be telling people to read it whenever I can. It is beautifully written, it is heartfelt and left me feeling that I am enough as I am.
My one hope for this book is for it to find readers all over the world that need to read the words for themselves. This is one of those books that can feed our souls and strengthen our hearts. It needs to be read by everyone who has ever looked at themselves in the mirror and thought they were less than for simply existing.
I'll be keeping this one close for sure, I'll know I'll go back to it at some point when I'm in desperate need of kind words to remind me that its okay to be who I am as I am.
This book felt like a warm, comforting hug the entire way through. I am certain that I will be reflecting on what I read for a long time to come. I am also certain I will be telling people to read it whenever I can. It is beautifully written, it is heartfelt and left me feeling that I am enough as I am.
My one hope for this book is for it to find readers all over the world that need to read the words for themselves. This is one of those books that can feed our souls and strengthen our hearts. It needs to be read by everyone who has ever looked at themselves in the mirror and thought they were less than for simply existing.
I'll be keeping this one close for sure, I'll know I'll go back to it at some point when I'm in desperate need of kind words to remind me that its okay to be who I am as I am.
April 15, 2025
* I received this book as an ARC through a Giveaway promotion.
Reading Owook's writing leaves behind one quiet feeling: It's okay not to push myself so hard.
Unlike self-help books that urge us to become better, faster, stronger, his words gently ask us to pause—and to simply look at ourselves as we are. They remind me that not being okay is a part of being human. And somehow, that reminder makes me feel a little more okay.
His writing doesn't shout. It doesn't try to convince or argue. Instead, it sits beside you—softly, patiently—until you realize you've been heard without ever having to speak. I felt this most in the chapter Ms. Kim Lilac. I was surprised that he expressed a son's guilt and love toward his mother in writing that's deeply emotional through an actual flower. It's about women who are mothers and daughters and caretakers all at once—who carry both love and guilt in the same breath. And strangely, those words didn't feel unfamiliar. I didn't need to explain myself. The writing had already seen me.
Owook's essays aren't about fixing who I am. They offer something quieter: the permission to stay as I am. And that's why they linger. Sometimes, the gentlest writing stays with you the longest.
Reading Owook's writing leaves behind one quiet feeling: It's okay not to push myself so hard.
Unlike self-help books that urge us to become better, faster, stronger, his words gently ask us to pause—and to simply look at ourselves as we are. They remind me that not being okay is a part of being human. And somehow, that reminder makes me feel a little more okay.
His writing doesn't shout. It doesn't try to convince or argue. Instead, it sits beside you—softly, patiently—until you realize you've been heard without ever having to speak. I felt this most in the chapter Ms. Kim Lilac. I was surprised that he expressed a son's guilt and love toward his mother in writing that's deeply emotional through an actual flower. It's about women who are mothers and daughters and caretakers all at once—who carry both love and guilt in the same breath. And strangely, those words didn't feel unfamiliar. I didn't need to explain myself. The writing had already seen me.
Owook's essays aren't about fixing who I am. They offer something quieter: the permission to stay as I am. And that's why they linger. Sometimes, the gentlest writing stays with you the longest.
April 24, 2025
Love, love, LOVED this essay collection.
It definitely gave me more perspective on self-love and self-esteem, relationships, and perseverance. I definitely shed some tears while reading through this.
There were some formatting issues, but not enough to detract from the overall message of the collection.
It definitely gave me more perspective on self-love and self-esteem, relationships, and perseverance. I definitely shed some tears while reading through this.
There were some formatting issues, but not enough to detract from the overall message of the collection.
May 8, 2025
*** I received a free copy of this book through a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for an honest review ***
5 Stars - Excellent work. I very much enjoyed reading Well Was, Well Is, Well Be. Although considered essays, many of the works had the feel of free verse poetry. The book covers a wide range of topics and is very well organized. The middle section gets into some heavier, more somber themes, but the book closes with a very hopeful, optimistic tone.
I often found myself reflecting on how the topics addressed in the book applied to my own life. I particularly liked the messages about being gentle with oneself. I think that’s something most people can relate to and can benefit from being reminded to give yourself some grace.
The pacing is very well done. There was a nice variety of essay lengths and I enjoyed the occasional photo. There were never any points that I felt like I had to force myself to keep reading. It flowed smoothly and I always looked forward to picking the book back up again.
Strongly recommend this book to everyone. I think it has something that everybody will be able to connect with.
Thank you so much for the copy of this book.
5 Stars - Excellent work. I very much enjoyed reading Well Was, Well Is, Well Be. Although considered essays, many of the works had the feel of free verse poetry. The book covers a wide range of topics and is very well organized. The middle section gets into some heavier, more somber themes, but the book closes with a very hopeful, optimistic tone.
I often found myself reflecting on how the topics addressed in the book applied to my own life. I particularly liked the messages about being gentle with oneself. I think that’s something most people can relate to and can benefit from being reminded to give yourself some grace.
The pacing is very well done. There was a nice variety of essay lengths and I enjoyed the occasional photo. There were never any points that I felt like I had to force myself to keep reading. It flowed smoothly and I always looked forward to picking the book back up again.
Strongly recommend this book to everyone. I think it has something that everybody will be able to connect with.
Thank you so much for the copy of this book.
July 30, 2025
Honestly this has been suuuuch a good book. I honestly was able to relate to 95% of this books & genuinely feel inspired & motivated by every piece that I read. 10/10 I would recommend reading.
August 20, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. I found it so comforting the thoughtful. I know I will be going back and reading it many times. It’s full of wisdom and encouragement for a fulfilling life.
I received this book free for an honest review.
I received this book free for an honest review.
May 17, 2026
Interesting book and author
#Goodreadsgiveaway I only gave this book for stars. That is mainly because when I signed up for the giveaway I didn't actually read what it was about it just came up on my nonfiction section and I thought based on the title that it would be a poetry book. What I found out in reading it was that it's actually kind of a memoir, self-help, learn from things I've learned in life book.
I believe this would be an excellent book for people in their 20s 30s maybe 40s. However I am in my sixties and been happily married for over 20 years. The sections on relationships are a little late for me. But other sections like on Depression hit the nail on the hea.
. I unfortunately lost my mother 27 years ago so it would bring up memories of her.
I love the Final Chapter called setting sale it was very positive for an ending chapter.
I did look at some other reviews before I finish the book. And I'm now thrilled that I was able to read this book free in the giveaway, as I saw the price it was going for at $1,600 or else it's not available at all. I find this hard to believe since it was just published last year, but perhaps that's because it was translated out of Korean? If you ever have the chance to read it please do! I could never find out how old the author was that would be something that would be interesting to me to know. I am happy that he found love in a relationship as I did.
#Goodreadsgiveaway I only gave this book for stars. That is mainly because when I signed up for the giveaway I didn't actually read what it was about it just came up on my nonfiction section and I thought based on the title that it would be a poetry book. What I found out in reading it was that it's actually kind of a memoir, self-help, learn from things I've learned in life book.
I believe this would be an excellent book for people in their 20s 30s maybe 40s. However I am in my sixties and been happily married for over 20 years. The sections on relationships are a little late for me. But other sections like on Depression hit the nail on the hea.
. I unfortunately lost my mother 27 years ago so it would bring up memories of her.
I love the Final Chapter called setting sale it was very positive for an ending chapter.
I did look at some other reviews before I finish the book. And I'm now thrilled that I was able to read this book free in the giveaway, as I saw the price it was going for at $1,600 or else it's not available at all. I find this hard to believe since it was just published last year, but perhaps that's because it was translated out of Korean? If you ever have the chance to read it please do! I could never find out how old the author was that would be something that would be interesting to me to know. I am happy that he found love in a relationship as I did.
September 7, 2025
ARC Review: Well Was Well Is Well Be
Publishing Date: April 21, 2025 (Out in the stores!)
Writer: Owook @owook
Publisher: BOOKRUM
My Rating: 🌟 12/10 🌟
I highly highly recommend everyone to read this book at least once in their lives!
There are many things to be said about this book. I find it hard to summarise the topic, but if I were to, I could say:
A book of self-healing, thinking about what you did and could have done in important times while prioritising your own heart and mind, forgiving your past and current self, planning your actions on emotionally-critical events, and many more...
I loved Well Was Well Is Well Be. Feeling sad because I did not know about Owook before. I will absolutely read the author's next translated books. It is a time I regret not knowing Korean, because his pen is so powerful, and his essays are very well-written.
Lastly, thanks to BookSirens & Owook, BOOKRUM for providing me an advanced reader's copy.
Publishing Date: April 21, 2025 (Out in the stores!)
Writer: Owook @owook
Publisher: BOOKRUM
My Rating: 🌟 12/10 🌟
I highly highly recommend everyone to read this book at least once in their lives!
There are many things to be said about this book. I find it hard to summarise the topic, but if I were to, I could say:
A book of self-healing, thinking about what you did and could have done in important times while prioritising your own heart and mind, forgiving your past and current self, planning your actions on emotionally-critical events, and many more...
I loved Well Was Well Is Well Be. Feeling sad because I did not know about Owook before. I will absolutely read the author's next translated books. It is a time I regret not knowing Korean, because his pen is so powerful, and his essays are very well-written.
Lastly, thanks to BookSirens & Owook, BOOKRUM for providing me an advanced reader's copy.
June 7, 2025
Collection of mini essays that feel reassuring and gentle. owook's voice carries that healing fiction tone of casual relatability and reassurance. Soothing anecdotes too. Not too deep to venture into the memoir territory, only long enough to add to the title of a particular essay.
It's nothing new in the realm of self-help messages, yet Well Was, Well Is, Well Be is a fast and inviting read. Pleasant reminders to please be kind to yourself on those days when you're feeling low and alone. Someone out there cares. Glad to have read this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It's nothing new in the realm of self-help messages, yet Well Was, Well Is, Well Be is a fast and inviting read. Pleasant reminders to please be kind to yourself on those days when you're feeling low and alone. Someone out there cares. Glad to have read this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 23, 2025
I received a free copy of this book as part of a giveaway hosted by Goodreads. All opinions are my own.
So beautiful and thought provoking. I was captivated by the author’s perspective on connection and our responsibilities to ourselves and others. The translation is a bit rough at times, but fitting for a work exploring universal experience / emotion. Insightful and unifying, this read was a rare kind of refreshing.
So beautiful and thought provoking. I was captivated by the author’s perspective on connection and our responsibilities to ourselves and others. The translation is a bit rough at times, but fitting for a work exploring universal experience / emotion. Insightful and unifying, this read was a rare kind of refreshing.
January 24, 2026
Though I read this quickly to see the overall picture, I knew immediately it was one I would return to later to savor the insights and truly absorb the lessons. We humans try our best to sort out the meaning of life and I appreciate the author eloquently sharing his viewpoints.
I won this book in a Goodreads sweepstakes & appreciated the chance to experience this book.
I won this book in a Goodreads sweepstakes & appreciated the chance to experience this book.
May 28, 2025
unusual
I liked about this book that it made me think, offered new perspectives withouth making me feel like being preached at.
I liked about this book that it made me think, offered new perspectives withouth making me feel like being preached at.
November 6, 2025
Consolation for the weary, for the lonely, for the fearful, for the uncertain, for the loveless, and for the peaceful.
June 24, 2026
Such a beautiful collections of words and thoughts. It was a very quick read and a peaceful time reading it.
June 8, 2022
한 페이지 한 페이지 넘기면서 스스로에게 위로를 선물해줬다:)
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