Miss Kim Knows: And Other Stories

Award-winning Korean author Cho’s (Saha) latest work is a collection of eight short stories. Each tale, translated by Chung, is relational, and plots vary. Some highlights include the surprising story of a 72-year-old father in “Runaway” who, leaving with money from their bank account, has abandoned his 65-year-old wife and family. The title story is about complex corporate nepotism. Social issues such as domestic violence are addressed in “Grown-Up Girl,” and a narcissistic, controlling relationship is depicted in “Dear Hyunnam Oppa.” There’s also a tale of young love in “Puppy Love, 2020” when a blossoming relationship between soon-to-be fifth graders is thwarted by the angst triggered by the pandemic and a limited phone messaging plan. Serious topics are, at times, offset by sarcasm and humor, which doesn’t take anything away from any of the pieces.