In this fascinating memoir, the author says goodbye to a mundane existence in America and, given a free air ticket and apartment, ventures to teach English on a remote island off the coast of South Korea. Dubbed The Island of Fantasy by its inhabitants, Koje-do is a mixture of charm and peaceful beauty. But in its city center sits Wonder School, a place of frantic chaos and disorganization. Treated like an English-speaking slave by the school's owners, Matthews struggles to teach students unlike anything his recruiter, the unscrupulous Mr. Wong, had depicted. Outside the job he meets a cast of memorable characters including the mysterious Choi and two-timing Natasha. Eye-popping and downright hilarious, the chronicle spins into a whirlwind that leaves the reader either stunned or laughing on the floor.
For a review of this book visit Korea Life Blog: http://korealife.blogspot.com
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By Elisa Hategan
Sep 15, 2010
"so much potential lost" Dear readers, I just found out that on May 23, 3006 Shawn Matthews, a person I have never met but whose writing touched me and so many others, committed suicide by jumping off the roof of his apartment building in Beijing, China. I am compelled to write this note as an addendum to his book page since he was such a fantastic writer and blogger. Easily one of the best authors I've seen published on Lulu, his talent and passion for writing, his impeccable sense of humour, and his ambition for depicting life overseas will be missed by so many. People who knew him in person or knew him merely through his work, both in print form and in his blogs, will never forget Shawn.
Extremely entertaining account of what it's like to be an English teacher in South Korea. A must-read for all who are pondering on doing the same or who are already there! Much recommended!
