This author is recognized for their debut novel and as a founding editor of THE BELIEVER magazine. Their writing delves into the intricacies of human connection and societal expectations, offering a nuanced perspective. Beyond their fiction, they have contributed significantly to literary discourse through insightful introductions to notable works and incisive reviews, particularly of graphic novels for The New York Times Book Review, demonstrating a broad engagement with contemporary arts.
Set against an alternate secret history of Korea, this sweeping novel weaves together elements of assassins, mad poets, and pop culture. It explores the impact of RPGs, slasher films, and social media on contemporary society, creating a vibrant tapestry that reflects on the complexities of identity and history. The narrative is rich with unique characters and unexpected twists, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the past's influence on the present.
In an unnamed New York company, employees grow restless as their surroundings unravel. Pru, a former grad student turned spreadsheet worker, Laars, who battles work anxiety in his dreams, and Jack II, known for his unwanted “jackrubs,” navigate the chaos. On a Sunday, one employee receives a call at home, signaling the start of firings. This literary debut is rich with Orwellian doublespeak, blending sabotage and romance, and serves as a comic delight and narrative tour de force. It resonates with anyone who has experienced office life, raising questions about time, life, and the mystery of the fridge's banana.
Praise for the work highlights its wit and appeal, as it critiques corporate jargon and the absurdities of office life. The New York Times Book Review calls it a timely "layoff narrative," while Time notes the meticulous cataloging of office minutiae. The New Yorker describes it as a "comic and creepy debut," transforming the mundane into the eerie. Comparisons to Joseph Heller’s work emphasize its absurdity and injustice. Critics commend Park's sharp language and emotional depth, with one noting it’s more than satire, revealing a hopeful heart beneath the surface. Overall, it’s celebrated as a warm, winning debut that humorously captures the essence of modern work life.
