As most fans know, former Girls' Generation member Jessica Jung has written her own book, "Shine," as part of a two-book deal with Simon Pulse. Though it has yet to be released, it is already being developed into a film. As the novel gains more and more hype around the world, fans have spotted some easter eggs that they believe reference Jessica's former girl group.
For the book's Thai cover, fans have spotted lightsticks that look awfully familiar. Though not exactly like Girls' Generation's lightstick, it is the same shade of pink, which has led fans to believe that is referencing the SM Entertainment girl group's light stick.
The easter egg on the Brazilin cover is a little more obvious. In this version, the main protagonist, Rachel Kim, is seen standing in front of a mirror with posters on her wall.
Upon closer inspection, fans found a poster that says, "Oh!Oh". Many believe this references Girls' Generation's 2010 hit single and second studio album of the same "Oh!" due to the title and how the font of the poster's cover is the same as the one in their studio album.
Additionally, a poster with a purple island and pink palm trees are also seen. Many believe it references the SM Station song "That Summer (Sailing 0805)", a song the group did back in 2016. This song was released two years after Jessica's departure and was released to celebrate the girls' 9th debut anniversary. At the time of its release, many speculated the song and the music video alluded to Jessica leaving the group.
The covers for both the Thai and Brazilian versions were said to have been chosen by Jessica Jung herself. Fans were able to send in their cover art for the book, and she selected the winners. With that, it's highly likely Jessica herself noticed by the easter eggs and chose those covers regardless.
The cover for the Korean release, however, does not indicate her former girl group whatsoever. However, it is being marketed as a book "written by former Girls' Generation member Jessica Jung."
"Shine" revolves around a Korean-American girl, Rachel Kim, who is made to debut in a 9-member girl group under one of South Korea's largest entertainment companies, DB Entertainment. With that, she must learn to balance the pressure of being under the spotlight and pursuing her dream of being a successful idol, all while suppressing her feelings for one of K-pop's "It Boys," Jason Lee.
Following the release of her book, many had claimed that the book bordered on autobiographical, as it seemed to mirror Jessica's experience as an idol. She, like the main character, debuted in a 9-member girl group under one of South Korea's biggest entertainment companies. Despite not yet having been released, excerpts have made their rounds across the internet. The book shocked fans for revealing details about the dark side of the industry, from slave contracts to being treated like machines.
The book is set to release on September 29, 2020, and is up for pre-order on numerous e-commerce sites. The film for "Shine" is being produced by the same producers of the Netflix hit, "To All The Boys I've Loved Before."
