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Kim Jae-il; Pullgrim: 235pp., 10,000 won
Some people fear getting the pink slip, while others worry about getting sick, but many are terrified of speaking in public. For those who would rather stay at home sick in bed rather than openly speak to the public, Kim Jae-il, a columnist for The Korea Times and also a speech expert, has released his new book ``Imaginative Speech.''
However important this speaking activity may be, it is inevitable to find that this is one of the key elements to success. Look at the U.S. President Barack Obama, who touched millions with his inspiring words and charismatic presence on the podium.
The writer argues that speaking skills are not inherited, but can be honed through proper training. This belief made him write this book and share it with those who are afraid of speaking in public.
Kim explains that the relationship between imagination and speech is like that of music and dance. It is more important to feel the music and let your body flow with it, rather than concentrating on how you are going to move your body.
``Like it and enjoy it. Delve into the world of speech as if you delve into music just to dance,'' the writer points out.
With interesting examples and theories, the book will help readers transform themselves into charismatic speakers, just like Obama.
-Han Sang-hee
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Stephanie Stein Crease; Translated from English to Korean by Jeong Yu-jin; Cobook Publishing: 280 pp., 12,800 won
``Music Lessons'' is more than relevant for a society where piano plus violin, etc. lessons are the norm for young children. The author, who is a music critic and mother, provides a helpful guide for parents concerned with their children's musical education.
This book, however, isn't about raising kids to become professional musicians. Rather, the author speaks as a parent who hopes music will help nurture emotional growth in children.
In Korea, various programs ranging from the Suzuki Method to Kindermusik are available. The book's forte is that it is practical and applicable as it provides details about each type of program and suggests which one would suit the diverse and unique needs of a child.
The author begins by addressing the basics, such as how not all children need to start with the piano. It is important to find the instrument sound a child likes. Another common concern among parents is that children don't like to practice, and the book provides suggestions for ascertaining and solving the cause of the problem.
-Lee Hyo-won
Rain: What a Paperboy Learned About BusinessJeffrey J. Fox; Jossey-Bass: 208 pp., $18.95
This book is a parable based on the story of a young paperboy named Rain and follows his experiences as he learns the business and quickly becomes the best paperboy in town.
What did being a paperboy teach these and other ``paper-kids'' around the world? The author brings life lessons and advice on a relentless entrepreneurial spirit along with the witty and wise parable itself.
The book illustrates a series of humorous poignant vignettes. Known as the acclaimed author of a series of hard-hitting international business bestsellers including ``How to Become CEO,'' ``How to Become a Rainmaker'' and ``Secrets of Great Rainmakers,'' the author shows another side to his writing.
This charming and entertaining fable is fun to read as well as offering practical advice that any business person can put to use.
-Chung Ah-yougn
Mr. `Fool'Jung Chae-bong; Sol Books: 192 pp., 9,500 won
Cardinal Stephen Kim Sou-hwan, a spiritual leader of Koreans across faiths, died on Feb. 16, but his legacy still lives on.
The book written by the late children's book writer Jung Chae-bong tells a story about the late Cardinal, which was published from May to August 1993 in the Kids Hankook Ilbo.
The author wrote the story based on conversations with the late Cardinal in 1993 about his childhood, to inspire children with hope. After finishing the serial publication, the author wanted it to be published as a book but Kim held it back, wanting it to be released after his death.
But the author passed away in 2001 while editing his writing. The book offers a rare glimpse into Kim's childhood under Japanese colonial rule and the memory of his mother who passed away. The book cover is a self-caricature Kim used to label himself as a ``fool.''
-Chung Ah-young
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