Review: Escape from Camp 14
Posted by Kate on Friday, November 1, 2013. Filed under: memoir, non-fiction, published in 2012, review, reviewed in 2013
Escape from Camp 14: One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to
Freedom in the West by Blaine Harden
Freedom in the West by Blaine Harden
Published by: Viking Adult
Our source: Our local library
What it’s about (from Goodreads):
In Escape from Camp 14, acclaimed journalist Blaine Harden tells the story of Shin Dong-hyuk and through the lens of Shin's life unlocks the secrets of the world's most repressive totalitarian state. Shin knew nothing of civilized existence-he saw his mother as a competitor for food, guards raised him to be a snitch, and he witnessed the execution of his own family. Through Harden's harrowing narrative of Shin's life and remarkable escape, he offers an unequaled inside account of one of the world's darkest nations and a riveting tale of endurance, courage, and survival.
Our thoughts:
Our thoughts:
This is a fascinating story. It's not particularly inspiring or uplifting - but it's incredibly eye-opening. Even though North Korea is now a staple on the news, hearing what goes on there from a first-person account is hard to swallow.
I actually listened to this as an audiobook and while I could appreciate the story, I didn't actually enjoy hearing it. The narrator was incredibly dry and monotone, which made the book come across boring when it really wasn't. If you're interested in this, skip the audiobook and go for the written copy.
I actually listened to this as an audiobook and while I could appreciate the story, I didn't actually enjoy hearing it. The narrator was incredibly dry and monotone, which made the book come across boring when it really wasn't. If you're interested in this, skip the audiobook and go for the written copy.
We would recommend this to:
People who interested in world affairs and human rights
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