Zachery
I learned of Sergei and subsequently this book, from his channel Ushanka Show. The thoughts and perspective of someone coming from the former soviet union to America for the first time was interesting and insightful, and highlights some of the peculiarities and luxuries we take for granted as “normal”. Patiently waiting on an english version of Sergei's 1996 American Diaries!
A River in Darkness: One Man's Escape from North Korea
Heartbreaking
Astonishingly well written chronicle of one man and his family's life in Japan and their move to North Korea in 1960. I couldn't get enough and read the whole thing ins one sitting.
A bit slow in spots, with a lot of PoV switching that left some characters not feeling totally fleshed out; but overall a thrilling read.