Book Summary

Aki Oh, a Korean-American author, has written a romantic fantasy story titled "The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea". This story takes its readers to a land filled with intriguing and eventful occurrences while simultaneously presenting Korean culture and literature. Although legends and the wrath of gods are no longer prevalent in today's world, in this beautiful fantasy realm, the author draws inspiration from the ancient myths of her homeland to explore themes that resonate with a segment of book lovers. In the past, whenever terrifying storms and thunder occurred in Korea, the inhabitants believed that they needed to appease the gods by offering a sacrifice to calm their anger and restore peace.

Now, Shim Chang, considered one of the most beautiful girls in the village, is viewed by the people as the bride of the sea who must be sent into the depths as a sacrifice. On the other hand, a man named Jun, who has feelings for Shim, is deeply afraid of losing his beloved and ventures into the stormy sea to protect her. However, the main character of Aki Oh's story is Mina, Jun's sister, who loves her brother dearly. She does everything possible, including considering herself a deity, to ensure that no harm comes to him.

Mina's decision leads her into the land of spirits and gods, where she faces challenges that bring significant hardships. This work, which conveys themes of love and sacrifice, undoubtedly deserves to be followed through to the end.

About the Author

Axie Oh is a Korean-American author born in New York. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of California and later moved to Las Vegas after living for several years in New Jersey, where she currently resides. Oh received her writing degree from Lesley University and has other books in her portfolio, including "Rogue Heart," "Writing in Color," and "Rebel Seoul."

Who Should Read the Book?

This book is primarily aimed at enthusiasts of mythological and romantic stories, especially teenagers.

Book Quotes

When I was a child, there was a girl in our village that I loved more than anyone else; partly because I was afraid of her. She was one of Jun's friends, two years older than me, with a fearless heart and a passion for life. Jun had a kind nature, and since he seemed older than his age, the other kids often picked on him.

Nari was always there to defend him. When she intervened in the bullies' attacks, they listened to her. When she condemned their cruel words, they begged her to forgive them. Gaining Nari's approval felt like basking in the sun; at least, that's how I imagined it felt.

And she never paid much attention to me. The last time I saw her was a year ago when she jumped into the raging river to retrieve the boats that had drifted away from the dock. The river roared and swept both the boats and Nari out to sea. I never thought I would see her again.

But now she is here, smiling and tearful, standing before me. "Mina, I can't believe it." She pulls me from the threshold and embraces me with her strong arms, laughing like the wildflowers and sturdy reeds that grow by the river: "The fact that you’re here means... it means you’re a man."

Ah, of course she thinks that way. The only way to enter the land of spirits is either to die or to be taken by the dragon, and she, like everyone else in my village, always knew that Shim Chang was meant to be this year's bride.