This is a collection of eight stories who live with the various pain and scars life has given them. A death of a close one or a long hidden secret claws at life and shakes the very core of it. Scars are like the pattern in wooden floors that can’t be wiped away no matter how hard you try, but does make life stronger. However, it is people who ultimately offer consolation in life. Bolivian Stamp is a book about relationships within the family. Family are those closest to you but also those who can hurt you. Kang Ira touches on the pain and hurt exchanged within the family. Undeniably, the most notable story is A Rat which was selected for the 2016 Kookje Daily News’ Annual Literary Contest. A Rat is a realistic depiction of the younger generation in our era. The rat dangerously floating in the plastic dipper in the tub, symbolizes our youth who are barely hanging in the balance during these uncertain times.

 “As soon as I finished the story, there was no question about it being the winner, but for the longest time, I also had to deal with the dark impression and symbolization of a rat whose tail was cut off.” 

Just like novelist Lee Sunwon’s description, the visual impression of the rat is difficult to erase. The depiction of the everyday life of our younger generation comes quite detailed. Readers feel a deep sympathy for Sujin who works as an intern for an extended amount of time only to be denied official employment. The monologue Sujin yells out towards the locked bathroom door represents every member of her generation and it fills your heart with sadness.