According to the grandfather, his friend’s distillery company was ruined by a greedy competitor who spread lies about their drinks. One of the most captivating short stories that describes the complex emotions of selfishness, greed, and revenge is titled, “Cursed Bunny.” The story is told through the lens of a grandson whose grandfather repeatedly tells him the story of a “cursed bunny.” The story revolves around a cursed bunny lamp that was made for the grandfather’s friend. Hur has received multiple awards for his translations and has taught the art of translation at many esteemed Universities. The translation of Cursed Bunny is so beautifully natural, that it is often easy to forget that this was first written in Korean. We cannot forget to give credit to the talented Anton Hur for the impeccable translation of Chung’s work. None of her other works have been translated into English yet, but Cursed Bunny is an incredible beginning for English readers to understand complex ideologies from Chung’s perspective. Along with publishing three novels and two other short story collections, she also translates modern literary works from Russian and Polish into Korean. How can a species be so empathetic and psychopathic all at once? Could it be, that the step toward curing the human condition requires that we accept this cosmic curse? Cursed Bunny – 164 pages – Honford Star – $14.99īora Chung’s first English translated work, Cursed Bunny, is one of several literary works that remind the reader about the harsh cruelties of the world that are often difficult to swallow. One reoccurring theme that comes across in many of Chung’s short stories is that of humanity’s innate inclination toward selfishness despite the repercussions it may have on other people. This slender beast of a book contains many themes that leave a lasting impression on the reader that may cause them to need a deep breath – and maybe even a drink – between stories. By including ten short stories, Chung is easily able to capture the reader’s full attention by making her audience feel disgusted and uncomfortable, yet highly intrigued and captivated.

Bora Chung’s fascinating and unique short story collection, Cursed Bunny, displays the most disturbing truths about the nature of mankind through a fantastical yet realistic narrative. BRIANNA HIRAMI WRITES - You may have been able to guess by the eerie-looking bunny presented in inverted colors on the cover that this tale is anything but light and happy.

Cursed Bunny by Bora Chung