Hi hi book-luvers of r/bangtan!

These last two or so weeks have been a whirlwind and, goodness, am I glad to have y’all with me for all the highs and lows and in-betweens of bora-land! A good time to take a minute and step Into the Magic Shop for a chat, no? Here’s your reminder that we will start discussing our August “Books with Luv” pick next week. We’ll send some friendly reminders to those that said they would be joining in on the discussion. It goes without saying that everyone’s invited. See you next week!

Discussion on ‘Into the Magic Shop’ starts on August 20th

So Show Me…

Below is a discussion guide. Some book-specific questions and other sharing suggestions!

• How did the themes of mindfulness and compassion explored in "Into the Magic Shop" resonate with you personally?
• The book has largely been attributed as inspiration to the song "Magic Shop" (though it's really a mystery how). After reading the book, what are some parallels between the author's journey and discoveries and the messages of self-love and empowerment often conveyed by BTS in their music and artistry?
• Can the practice of visualization or meditation be seen as a form of magic? How might these practices create real change, especially in regards to compassion and justice?
• Ruth acts as a guiding figure for Doty and emphasizes the importance of connecting with others and opening one's heart. In what ways has the influence of a mentor or a guiding figure shaped your life? What have been some of your most meaningful connections – in and outside of BTS & Army?
• Do you have your own 'Alphabet of the Heart'?

B-Side Questions/Discussion Suggestions

• Fan Chant: Hype/overall reviews
• Ments: favorite quotes
• ARMY Time: playlist/recommendations of songs you associate with the book/chapters/characters
• Do The Wave: sentiments, feels, realizations based on the book
• Encore/Post Club-read Depression Prevention: something the book club can do afterwards (on your own leisure time) to help feel less sad after reading.
  ***

Into the Magic Shop: A Neurosurgeon's Quest to Discover the Mysteries of the Brain and the Secrets of the Heart by James R. Doty

Today, Jim Doty, is the director of the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE). But growing up, he had a difficult home life, and at twelve he wandered into a magic shop looking for a plastic thumb. Instead he met Ruth, a woman who taught him a series of exercises to ease his own suffering and manifest his greatest desires. She gave him his first glimpse of the unique relationship between the brain and the heart, but he neglects Ruth’s most important lesson, to keep his heart open.

Part memoir, part science, part inspiration, and part practical instruction, "Into the Magic Shop" shows us how we can fundamentally change our lives by first changing our brains and our hearts.

This book is said to be the inspiration for Magic Shop and the iconic 5th Muster: Magic Shop.

… (I’ll show you) how to get the book

I want to listen to your melody …

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the book or the thread, feel free to tag me or any of the mods or BWL Volunteers.

• u/EveryCliche
• u/munisme
• u/mucho_thankyou5802
• u/Next_Grapefruit_3206

…and the r/bangtan Mod Team