The Valley Nearby

Written by one of South Korea's most popular authors, The Valley Nearbyis a beautiful tale of a woman attempting to reconcile cultural tradition with her need for individuality and freedom. Living in the isolation of the country, Yun-hee is engaged in a solitary struggle. Her two worlds, that of a rural housewife and that of an advocate for equality, are at odds with each other. Although she reveres a mother who calls her husband "Master," Yun-hee still hopes that one day things might be different for her daughter.

MultiCultural Review

With a fluent style and a superb storytelling technique, Kang's beautiful story presents a vivid picture of a rural Korean comunity; the novel will surely help Western readers understand East Asian culture, society, and humanity.

Kang Sok-Kyong was born in Taegu, Kyongsangbuk-do. Although her background is in painting, Kang has published several novels, short stories, and essays. She received the Prize for Today's Writers and the Nokwon Literary Award in 1986.