Book Review: Snowglobe (The Snowglobe Duology) by Lee Jae-jin
When I first glimpsed the synopsis for Snowglobe, I was immediately captivated by the chilling allure of its dystopian setting—a place where constant winter reigns outside the safe haven of a climate-controlled city. The promise of a gripping narrative reminiscent of The Hunger Games but with a unique twist—juxtaposing fame and desperation—compelled me to dive right in. The fact that it’s a novel finally available in English, originally penned by the talented Lee Jae-jin and awarded the Changbi X Kakaopage Young Adult Novel Award, made it even more enticing.
From the first page, Snowglobe transports you to a world where survival hinges on the bleak contrast between the icy, harsh reality outside and the seemingly utopian existence within the dome. Our protagonist, Chobahm, is an intriguing mix of hope and ambition as she leaps at the chance to impersonate the glamorous yet deceased star, Goh Haeri. This transition not only highlights her desperate yearning to escape her frigid life but also delves into the unsettling theme of identity. The stakes are elevated when we realize that life within Snowglobe is more performative and controlled than anyone could imagine, creating a stark commentary on societal fascination with fame and spectacle.
Lee Jae-jin’s lyrical prose artfully balances suspense and intrigue as Chobahm grapples with her new reality. The pacing is remarkable—though there are moments of tension that linger, the narrative continually pulls you forward. I found myself racing through its pages, sometimes pausing only to catch my breath after unexpected twists and reveals. The quotes sprinkled throughout the narrative amplify its eerie aesthetic; one that particularly resonated with me was, “Reality is a lie, and truth seems to be forever out of reach,” which encapsulates the book’s entire essence.
Amidst the adrenaline-pumping moments, Snowglobe invites deeper reflection on societal constructs and the concept of life under the watchful eye of the virtual gaze. It’s an exploration of privilege and sacrifice that echoes our own world, where reality TV often blurs lines between truth and fiction. The compelling critique of a society that sacrifices the wellbeing of the lesser for the comfort of the elite captivated my thoughts long after I turned the last page.
I wholeheartedly recommend Snowglobe to anyone who finds thrill in dystopian narratives or enjoys stories that combine suspense, depth, and a touch of psychological exploration. If you’ve been enchanted by the likes of Squid Game or Snowpiercer, this book promises to be a captivating addition to your reading list. As I eagerly anticipate the sequel launching this spring, I can’t help but reflect on how Snowglobe not only entertained me but also sparked a conversation about the fragility of identity and the cost of societal ideals.
So, grab a cozy blanket, prepare a warm drink, and immerse yourself in the thought-provoking world of Snowglobe. Trust me, you won’t want to step back out into the cold—real or metaphorical—once you’re inside!