IF I HAD YOUR FACE

An ensemble of gifted narrators portrays contemporary Seoul, South Korea, as a class-conscious and patriarchal city where an absurdly high value is placed on female beauty. Through the alternating points of view of four young women, listeners sense how friendship helps women surmount this harsh culture. Narrator Jeena Yi's sardonic tone reveals the sordidness of Kiyuri's work as a "room salon girl" who endured numerous cosmetic procedures to attain her position. The obsessive, mute hair stylist Ara is wonderfully portrayed by Sue Jean Kim in a slightly distant manner that conveys emotional depth. The soft tones of Ruthie Ann Miles' emotive voice convey the struggles of Miho, an artist. Author Frances Cha evokes listeners' sympathy for the pregnant Wonna, who is stuck in a strained marriage. M.J. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2020]