In North Korea: An American Travels through an Imprisoned Nation Book

Directly from my blog, []

"Somewhat recently I've been fascinated by North Korea (Okay--somewhat obsessed). Beyond the accounts of nuclear bomb testing, the starving people, and that crazy Kim Jung Il--I wanted to learn about the history--the DMZ--the life of the people. I decided to take advantage of reader privileges at a big library here in our Nation's Capitol. The first read: In North Korea: An American Travels Through an Imprisoned Nation. Nanchu, a Chinese-American brought up in China discusses the situation in North Korea as well as life for refugees (known as illegal immigrants)i n Northeast China. The book is absolutely enthralling. VERY RECOMMENDED--especially for those frustrated by the lack of Web information.

Nanchu goes into much detail regarding: her trip into North Korea in 2001, interviews with the people (when she is able to escape her 'golden prison' trip), and the conditions for life for North Koreans. Nanchu secures the trust of many North Koreans (because of the "lips and teeth" relationship of North Korea and China). Because of this, her candid details depressed and at times--disturbed me. At other times Nanchu uses poetic metaphors to describe her thoughts...women as bright flowers, poverty full of thorns and tears.

What is most surprising is the relationship of the Chinese government AND the South Korean government towards North Korean defectors. In most cases, the fate isn't friendly for those that are able to make it out of North Korea...they will likely be sent back. The Chinese, South Koreans, and North Koreans alike are working hard to hide the details of life in North Korea to the rest of the world."