Literature, Humanities and Arts, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences Selections
The National Library of Korea announced on December 1 that it has selected 12 "themed librarian-recommended books" under the theme of "happiness."
National Library of Korea December Recommended Books by Librarians. Provided by National Library of Korea
The selections include the following: In literature, Youth's Country and The Twenty-Five Seasons Left to Me; in humanities and arts, A Very Old Theory of Happiness, Happiness on the Luggage, The Blue Art Museum, and Solid Happiness; in social sciences, Choi Jaecheon’s Lessons of Hope, The Most Beautiful Completion of My Life, The Future That Arrived First, and Fired: The Journal of Liberation of Wealth; and in natural sciences, Resilience and Brain Science and Happiness Hormone were selected.
In the literature category, Youth's Country is set in the near future, where the generational structure has been reversed due to low birth rates and an aging population. It tells the story of a young person named Yoonara, who comes to understand and endure the deficiencies of others, ultimately discovering the true meaning of happiness.
In the humanities and arts category, A Very Old Theory of Happiness is a collection of philosophical reflections serialized by French philosopher Alain in newspapers in the early 20th century. Through concise yet profound thoughts, the book offers a fresh perspective on life.
In the social sciences category, The Most Beautiful Completion of My Life views old age not as a period of decline but as a time of completion, exploring the existential meaning of well-aging.
In the natural sciences category, Resilience and Brain Science scientifically demonstrates how small changes in habits can reduce stress and increase happiness, providing practical advice.
An official from the National Library of Korea stated, "We hope these recommended books will serve as a warm guide for readers seeking the meaning of happiness as they wrap up 2025."
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