News
September 16, 2025
Lemony Snicket: my favourite book is 1,000 years old
Daniel Handler — aka Lemony Snicket — recommends a ‘thrilling, moving, suspenseful, bonkers’ South Korean novels, an ancient Japanese classic and Mrs Caliban
**Lemony Snicket Unveils a Millennial-Old Literary Love Affair**
Daniel Handler, the mind behind the darkly humorous Lemony Snicket series, has revealed his surprisingly eclectic reading tastes, highlighting a book that predates even his own fictitious narratives by centuries. In a recent interview, Handler confessed his enduring admiration for a South Korean novel he describes as “thrilling, moving, suspenseful, and bonkers.”
While Handler didn't explicitly name the novel, his glowing adjectives point towards a work brimming with the kind of captivating storytelling found in his own books. The characterization of "bonkers" especially piques curiosity, suggesting a narrative that embraces the absurd and unexpected, traits familiar to Snicket fans.
But Handler's literary appreciation doesn't stop at Korean shores. He also expressed deep affection for an ancient Japanese classic. This revelation places Handler’s reading preferences firmly outside the realm of contemporary literature, showcasing a keen interest in narratives that have stood the test of time. The specific title remains undisclosed, leaving literary enthusiasts to speculate which Japanese masterpiece has captured the imagination of this modern storyteller. Is it a tale of samurai honor, courtly intrigue, or perhaps a philosophical exploration of life and death? The possibilities are vast and tantalizing.
Adding a touch of contemporary flair to his recommendations, Handler also included "Mrs. Caliban" in his list of favourite books. This choice provides a glimpse into Handler's appreciation for modern works that explore unconventional themes and push the boundaries of narrative. It suggests that, while he cherishes ancient tales, he's also drawn to stories that resonate with the complexities and strangeness of the modern world.
Handler's diverse reading list offers a compelling insight into the inspirations that shape his own writing. It demonstrates a deep appreciation for storytelling in all its forms, spanning centuries and continents. From ancient Korean and Japanese narratives to contemporary works, Daniel Handler's literary preferences reveal a mind that is both deeply rooted in tradition and constantly seeking new and unexpected voices. His recommendations serve as a reminder that the best stories often transcend time and place, captivating readers with their timeless themes and compelling characters.
Daniel Handler, the mind behind the darkly humorous Lemony Snicket series, has revealed his surprisingly eclectic reading tastes, highlighting a book that predates even his own fictitious narratives by centuries. In a recent interview, Handler confessed his enduring admiration for a South Korean novel he describes as “thrilling, moving, suspenseful, and bonkers.”
While Handler didn't explicitly name the novel, his glowing adjectives point towards a work brimming with the kind of captivating storytelling found in his own books. The characterization of "bonkers" especially piques curiosity, suggesting a narrative that embraces the absurd and unexpected, traits familiar to Snicket fans.
But Handler's literary appreciation doesn't stop at Korean shores. He also expressed deep affection for an ancient Japanese classic. This revelation places Handler’s reading preferences firmly outside the realm of contemporary literature, showcasing a keen interest in narratives that have stood the test of time. The specific title remains undisclosed, leaving literary enthusiasts to speculate which Japanese masterpiece has captured the imagination of this modern storyteller. Is it a tale of samurai honor, courtly intrigue, or perhaps a philosophical exploration of life and death? The possibilities are vast and tantalizing.
Adding a touch of contemporary flair to his recommendations, Handler also included "Mrs. Caliban" in his list of favourite books. This choice provides a glimpse into Handler's appreciation for modern works that explore unconventional themes and push the boundaries of narrative. It suggests that, while he cherishes ancient tales, he's also drawn to stories that resonate with the complexities and strangeness of the modern world.
Handler's diverse reading list offers a compelling insight into the inspirations that shape his own writing. It demonstrates a deep appreciation for storytelling in all its forms, spanning centuries and continents. From ancient Korean and Japanese narratives to contemporary works, Daniel Handler's literary preferences reveal a mind that is both deeply rooted in tradition and constantly seeking new and unexpected voices. His recommendations serve as a reminder that the best stories often transcend time and place, captivating readers with their timeless themes and compelling characters.
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