That Lonely Spell

Frances Park's parents arrived in the United States decades before the mass migration of Koreans. Her background and memory are rich with unique histories that work their way into That Lonely Spell. A mosaic of previously published essays, this memoir reveals-with heartbreak and humor-one woman's passion, insights, and love for the family and friends who graced her life. A singular voice.

"Park's tender, self-aware voice is never maudlin, and her journey is relatable. Heart and humanity shine through in essays that speak to a fierce love of family and longing for home." -Kirkus Reviews

"The ferocious energy of Frances Park's essays in That Lonely Spell, her lyrical prose, and her poignant subject matter-early loss of her father; isolation as the only Korean family in her Virginia suburb; a complex yet close bond with her mother; and a series of unfulfilling intimate relationships-captivated me from beginning to end. Park's voice is urgent and entertaining. You won't want to miss this collection." -R.L. Maizes, author of Other People's Pets and We Love Anderson Cooper

"Frances Park's haunted essays are part elegiac after party, part Coen brothers whispers. She travels from Seoul to Soul via bus tours to Amish country, the Bayou in Georgetown, a lost cabin in West Virginia, a cosmic dog, creepy neighbors, crazed roommates, old friends, lovers, and her ex (Hug Bug). But it's her mother and lost-too-soon father that steal that show. Grab a vodka-laced Tab and dial up family life in the burbs via pop relics, TV ads, show tunes, dance moves, and chocolate." -Richard Peabody, editor of Gargoyle Magazine, author of Guinness on the Quay

"I can't adequately put into words my praise for That Lonely Spell. Each story is magical, so powerful and beautifully recalled you'll swear you were with her." -Rick Cooper, lyricist, author of For the Record