The Rainfall Market by You Yeong-Gwang

A charming Korean cozy fantasy, a quick and pleasant read. Teen Serin writes a letter detailing what she’d like to change in her somewhat dreary life, and receives a golden ticket to the magical Rainfall Market in Rainbow Town. The Market is full of dokkaebi, which turn out to be goblins, and are described in an illustrated glossary. Other than Taekwondo and listening to music, Serin doesn’t have any hobbies. Her mother is a seamstress and they are poor.

When a week of rain is predicted, the market opens for the lucky people with tickets. Serin has many adventures at the market, accompanied by Issha, a magical cat guide. There is a little hint of Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory about the market and Serin’s adventures. Other then the dokkaebi, there are few Korean words, making for easy reading. I love the cover, really liked the ending, and was surprised to find out that the author is male. I would definitely read another cozy adventure like The Rainfall Market, especially on a rainy day.

Brenda