IU, the renowned South Korean singer-songwriter and actress, is known for her love of reading. Her passion for books was nurtured from a young age, as her parents would encourage her to read thick books as a form of discipline, fostering a lifelong r...
During the third episode of the JTBC reality show Hyori’s Bed and Breakfast in 2017, IU was seen reading the second volume of this book and has described it as one of the best books she has ever read. The novel explores themes such as morality, relig...
The Brothers Karamazov
A classic novel that tells the adventure of Alice in a wonderland full of whimsical characters. IU was inspired by this book for her song titled Twenty-three
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland & Other Stories
This Korean novel tells the story of a woman deemed unattractive by societal standards and her relationship with a famously handsome man. Through their interactions, the narrative delves into themes of beauty, societal expectations, and personal conn...
Pavane for a Dead Princess by Min-Gyu Park
This heartwarming story follows Ove, a curmudgeonly old man who finds his solitary world turned upside down when a lively family moves in next door. Through unexpected friendships and humorous encounters, Ove's grumpy exterior slowly reveals a deeply...
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
IU has recommended 'Demian' in various interviews, highlighting its profound impact on her. This coming-of-age novel delves ofinto the spiritual and psychological growth of a young boy named Emil Sinclair. Guided by the enigmatic Max Demian, Sinclair...
Demian - Hermann Hesse
Brida' narrates the journey of a young Irish woman named Brida O'Fern. Eager to explore the world of magic, she seeks guidance from two mentors: a wise man who teaches her about overcoming fears and a woman who instructs her on dancing to the hidden ...
Brida by Paulo Coelho
This novel blends fictional storytelling with philosophical insights into love and relationships. IU has spoken about Essays in Love in interviews, particularly noting how it made her reflect on the nature of love in her own life. She has posted abou...
Essays In Love by Alain de Botton
Murakami’s debut novel that tells the story of an unnamed college student and his relationships with a bartender and a mysterious woman.
Hear the Wind Sing - by Haruki Murakami
A philosophical novel that explores love, politics, and existentialism.
The Unbearable Lightness of Being
IU has mentioned reading this book. This classic Brazilian novel follows Zezé, a poor but imaginative boy who finds comfort in his friendship with a small orange tree named Minguinho. The story beautifully portrays hardship, warmth, love, and hope.
My Sweet Orange Tree
A humorous novel about a 100-year-old man who escapes from a nursing home and embarks on an extraordinary adventure
The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Disappeared
A philosophical work introducing the concept of the "Übermensch" and exploring ideas about morality, religion, and human existence.
Thus Spoke Zarathustra (Signature Classics) by Friedrich Nietzsche
An experimental novel that portrays the life and death of a young man named Jacob through the perspectives of those around him.
Jacob's Room by Virginia Woolf
A mystery novel centered on the murder of a teenage girl and its impact on those around her.
Lemon: A Novel by Kwon Yeo-sun
A surreal novel about art, loneliness, and self-discovery.
Killing Commendatore: A novel by Haruki Murakami
A philosophical and poetic exploration of love and relationships.