In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl's Journey to Freedom

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 Book Review:

 


For me, this was one of those books I just couldn’t put down. Told in a straightforward and non-sensational manner, this book spins out a harrowing real-life dystopian adventure story. A dangerous escape from the hell that is life in North Korea, then abduction and sex slavery in China, and finally sweet freedom in the West, this is an intimate, heart wrenching account of what it costs to fight (and flee) for liberty in one of the darkest corners of the world.

North Korea is a country shrouded in mists of rumor and propaganda. Reading “In Order to Live” was like shining a clarifying ray of bright sunshine into the unspeakably oppressive shadows Kim Jong Un and his communist party have cast over the country. More than that, Park’s story is one of courage, hope and an indomitable spirit. Best of all, it has a happy ending! This is the most inspiring book I have read this year!!

Recommendation: for anyone who loves a true adventure story, wants to understand how communism plays out in real life, or is looking for encouragement to try, try, and then try even harder - pick up “In Order to Live”. You’ll be glad you did.

Mr. Wedel

 

Author – Yeonmi Park & Maryanne Vollers

Publishing – Penguin Books, 2016

Genre – True Story

Pages - 288

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