CRISTY IN THE CITY

Lately, I’ve been falling in love with the charming titles published by Apop Books, known for translating bestselling Korean inspirational books into English. Their books have a very comforting vibe—thoughtful essays, adorable illustrations, and beautifully designed pages that make reading feel like a quiet little ritual.

The first Apop title I owned was I Decided to Live as Me. I honestly can’t remember where I bought it—maybe at a book bazaar or at National Book Store—but I clearly remember that Jungkook from BTS mentioned reading it during Bon Voyage. That tiny detail made me curious enough to look for a copy.

The book turned out to be such a delightful find. It’s filled with gentle reflections about living authentically and learning to embrace who you are. The layout is light and airy, with plenty of white space and little illustrations scattered throughout. It’s the kind of book you’d love to bring to a quiet café, sip a cup of coffee, and slowly read during your me-time.

The second Apop title I discovered is You Can Wind Down from Time to Time. This book feels like it was written for anyone who occasionally struggles with adulting—which, honestly, is most of us. What makes it especially fascinating is how it draws inspiration from classic fairy tales and connects them to the realities of modern life. Whenever things start to feel a bit overwhelming, I find myself flipping through the pages and revisiting my favorite chapters for a little comfort and perspective.

Since I’m not entirely sure where I bought my earlier copies, I recently discovered that Apop has its own online shop where readers can order their books directly. It makes browsing their newer titles much easier.

Right now, a few books are already on my wishlist:

1cm by Kim Eun-Ju, It’s Ok I’ll Be Happy First by Hadahada, and the workbook-style The Art of Living in Records by Shim Da-eum.

There’s something special about these Korean inspirational books. They’re gentle, reflective, and beautifully made—perfect companions for slow mornings, quiet café afternoons, or peaceful evenings at home.

Sometimes, all we really need is a good book that reminds us to slow down and simply live as ourselves.

Step into Common Room PH and you’ll instantly understand the allure—it’s a space that effortlessly radiates soft girl energy, creativity, and a deep love for all things handmade and beautiful.

Whenever I’m in Manila, a visit to Common Room is non-negotiable. It’s where I stock up on thoughtful, handcrafted pieces and charming gifts I simply won’t find in novelty stores back home in Iloilo City. More than just a shop, it feels like a carefully curated world—one that celebrates individuality, artistry, and the joy of small, meaningful objects.

The aesthetic leans into that millennial, cozy charm: clean yet playful, curated yet delightfully eclectic. It’s a haven for crafters, dreamers, and anyone drawn to pieces with personality. Whether you’re a bohemian at heart, a kawaii enthusiast, an eco-conscious shopper, a fashion lover, or a tita fully embracing her soft girl era—there’s something here waiting to be discovered.

Personally, I always find myself lingering by the feline-inspired shelves. There’s something irresistible about the hand-drawn stickers, enamel pins, tote bags, and stationery—each piece feeling like a tiny work of art. These one-of-a-kind finds have a way of turning everyday items into little moments of joy.

As someone who dabbles in crafts and creative hobbies, I also appreciate their thoughtfully stocked selection of materials. From knitting and sewing supplies to paper arts and decorative elements, Common Room offers a treasure trove for makers of all kinds. Whatever your craft, chances are, you’ll find inspiration—and the tools to bring it to life—right here.

And the best part? You don’t need to book a flight to Manila to experience it. Common Room PH is also available online, making it easier than ever to support handmade, local creativity—no matter where you are.

Yay for handmade, indeed.