I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki

Baek Sehee, Transl. Anton Hur
51 pages1-hour read
Nonfiction
Autobiography / Memoir
Adult
Published in 2018

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Book Brief

Baek Sehee, Transl. Anton Hur

I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

232

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Genre
Memoir & Autobiography

•

Korean Literature

•

Psychology
Setting

South Korea • 2010s

Theme
Shame & Pride

•

Mental Health

•

Family
Topic
Mental Illness

•

Depression & Suicide
First Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki by Baek Sehee and translated by Anton Hur explores an individual's journey through therapy sessions. It depicts their struggles with depression and self-image while seeking comfort in tteokbokki, a Korean dish. The narrative candidly reveals the complexity of emotional health and highlights the importance of self-acceptance and understanding.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Emotional

Bittersweet

Dark

Reviews & Readership

3.2

112,132 ratings

37%

Loved it

40%

Mixed feelings

23%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki offers a poignant exploration of depression through diary-like therapy sessions, resonating with readers for its candidness and relatability. Baek Sehee's narrative, translated by Anton Hur, is praised for its authenticity and wit, though some may find the fragmented style challenging. Overall, it provides solace in shared human struggles.

Who should read this

Who Should Read I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki?

A reader who would enjoy I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki by Baek Sehee, translated by Anton Hur, is likely intrigued by personal narratives addressing mental health. Fans of My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh or Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig may find solace and connection in this candid exploration of depression and desire.

3.2

112,132 ratings

37%

Loved it

40%

Mixed feelings

23%

Not a fan

Key Figures

The memoir's author, a South Korean writer, who candidly shares her journey with depression, anxiety, and personal growth, offering insight into her struggles and relationships.

A compassionate therapist who supports Sehee through talk therapy and helps guide her understanding of mental health challenges without revealing their personal identity.

A violent figure in Sehee's upbringing, whose abusive behavior contributes to her anxiety and low self-esteem during her childhood.

Initially a source of tension and control in Sehee's life, whose relationship with her evolves from being fraught with difficulty to finding reconciliation and understanding.

Sehee’s mother often provides advice that feels unsupported by her actions, leading to a complex relationship that serves as a lens for Sehee's self-discovery.

A person whom Sehee meets after starting therapy, representing personal growth, with whom she shares common interests and introversion, and navigates friendship challenges.

Book Details
Pages

232

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Genre
Memoir & Autobiography

•

Korean Literature

•

Psychology
Setting

South Korea • 2010s

Theme
Shame & Pride

•

Mental Health

•

Family
Topic
Mental Illness

•

Depression & Suicide
First Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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