If you believe in the importance of remembering, and the quiet courage of people who rewrite history from the shadows—this is for you.
Sometimes powerful books aren’t the loudest. Kim Ji-young, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-joo is one of those: slim in size, but enormous in impact.
Can’t I Go Instead is one of those rare books that quietly breaks your heart—and then keeps whispering to you long after you’ve turned the last page.
With elements of classic detective fiction woven into a speculative, almost dystopian setting, it’s a genre-defying read that delivers.
It features graceful writing, layered characters, and a narrative that champions quiet courage and emotional honesty.