Plot Summary

Shelter

Jung Yun
Guide cover placeholder

Shelter

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

Book Brief

Jung Yun

Shelter

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Massachusetts • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Shelter by Jung Yun chronicles the tumultuous life of Kyung Cho, a Korean-American father grappling with his abusive childhood, strained marriage, and identity crisis. Financial issues force Kyung, his wife Gillian, and their son Ethan to live with his parents, Mae and Jin, after they survive a brutal home invasion. As they navigate past trauma and present challenges, the novel examines generational violence, forgiveness, and cultural heritage. The book addresses themes of domestic violence and abuse.

Dark

Melancholic

Gritty

Suspenseful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

3.9

9,980 ratings

64%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jung Yun's Shelter receives acclaim for its compelling exploration of family dynamics and trauma, with readers praising its well-developed characters and thought-provoking themes. Critics highlight the novel's gripping narrative but note that its heavy subject matter might not appeal to everyone. Overall, a powerful debut with profound emotional impact.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Shelter?

Readers who enjoy understanding complex family dynamics and dark secrets in engaging narratives would appreciate Shelter by Jung Yun. It is ideal for fans of Celeste Ng’s Everything I Never Told You and Jean Kwok’s Girl in Translation. The book explores themes of cultural identity, trauma, and the multifaceted nature of familial relationships.

3.9

9,980 ratings

64%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Massachusetts • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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