Harsh Barnawal

In all honesty, this book was a pleasant surprise. Michelle Jungmin Bang's Sun and Ssukgat is not another self-help book; it is more like having a sit-down with a wise relative who's imparting lovely, down-to-earth family secrets. It roots the entire idea of self-care in traditions from ancient Korea, which is a welcome change. My favorite part was the travel aspect. She whisks you around Korea, from mountain monasteries to coastal villages, talking to individuals such as the haenyeo divers and Buddhist nuns. It's not theory in practice; you witness this longevity knowledge in the flesh. The emphasis on ssukgat—chrysanthemum greens—as a sign for natural, preventive wellness particularly spoke to me. And, she adds easy, wholesome recipes that really seem within reach, not like some exotic chore. If you're frazzled and hungry for a way to slow down and get to know your own health again, this is a lovely, motivating read.