The Second Chance Convenience Store A Novel

"A moving story about solidarity and the healing process" - Yes24 and Kyobo Book Center

"The Second Chance Convenience Store... checks all the boxes, enhanced with additional charm and empathy, and smoothly translated by Janet Hong....In what might initially seem to be a light, breezy novel, Kim seamlessly inserts sharp commentary about society's failures concerning people late in life, people experiencing homelessness, corporate greed, compromised ethics." - Shelf Awareness (Starred Review)

"The Second Chance Convenience Store...should be on your reading list. This Korean book, soon in English, is special. It shows kindness, community, and second chances....If you want a book that makes you feel good about people, this one delivers." - Dionysus Reviews

"The whole thing was just delightful without being saccharine" - Reading Reality

"Dok-go's realistic and encouraging relationship with the store's customers, who have their problems and aspirations resolved so well through the pages, wins everyone's hearts." - The Korea Times

"Kim Ho-Yeon's prose, beautifully translated, is understated but piercing. He avoids melodrama, opting instead for daily textures: the warmth of doenjang soup, the quiet discipline of a part-time worker, the humbling dignity of a man once discarded by society. This is not just a feel-good narrative. It is a slow-burning reckoning with aging, dignity, capitalism, and the invisible social architecture of cities.... A standout in contemporary translated fiction, the book speaks volumes to our post-pandemic world where community is both scarce and sacred." - Litro Magazine

"It's easy to see why this quick and endearing read was so popular in Korea and beyond; U.S. readers are in for a treat." - Library Journal

"A delightful read." - Not Another Book Review Blog

"The Second Chance Convenience Store is a joyful and uplifting read that highlights the importance of human connection.... Highly recommended for anyone looking for a feel-good novel that also offers meaningful reflection." - FreshFiction

A What's Up? Magazine "Reading Pick"