Review:I enjoyed the read. This rare glimpse is very limited but it's also the point. N. Korean PUST students; the elite of the elite even are unaware of the outside which is a constant theme in this book. The country is so isolated and orchestrated that it's almost amazing that people swallow the (at times literal) bulls*** they are fed. It does have some hope although not much.

Recommended read. Read more

Review:Have never thought about life in North Korea . This story amazed and shocked me. The oppression and cruel lack of any freedom in this country is appalling. Brave and finally successful search for freedom. Read more

Review:For anyone interested in North Korea, this is the book for you. The book starts by chronicling the history of modern day North Korea and the rise to power of Kim Il Sung and his son Kim Jong Il. The second section of the book contains numerous interviews conducted by the author with North Korean defectors. From lowly workers at the bottom of society to the high officials in the North Korean system, this book paints a clear picture inside this elusive regime. The book culminates in a section rega... Read more

Review:This is well written, poignant memoir that would be a fabulous choice for a book club. The time spent reading is small and you can fly through the book because it is so interesting. It would inspire great discussions and bring a clarifying insight to life in North Korea. Read more

Review:I would recommend this book for everyone to read. I could not put it down and read it in 2 days. It's hard to believe what Ms. Park and her family went through. The concept of trying to escape North Korea because of immense hardships and no food is too much at times when reading. She is a area! Inspiration and this book let's us know what is really going on over there. Read more

Review:It's a tragedy that Halberstam died just prior to the publication of this book, and maybe he had a better book in him, but I kind of doubt it: this is truly magisterial in its description of battles and more importantly the men fighting them. No, it's not a complete account of the Korean War, but what it tells, it tells with great depth, nuance, and feeling. One of the greatest war books you'll ever read. A truly moving tribute to these forgotten warriors. Read more

Review:A well researched book about a powerful dictator who controls his country and its people with propaganda and manipulation. A well written and fascinating read. You will better understand North Korea's government after reading this book. Read more