Nothing to Envy: Ordinary Lives in North Korea

I thought I knew a little about North Korea before I started this book. I was wrong. I knew nothing.

My eyes are opened.

North Korea is not a happy place. People died there of malnutrition and starvation. In the 90's. The people of North Korea believe all sorts of strange propaganda put out by the government, including the widespread belief that America is determined to destroy their country and that their country is a paradise and their leader is a deeply benevolent and generous man. Industry in North Korea is almost nonexistent. Many people continue to go to work even though they have not been paid for months and months. And how about this? The average adult in North Korea is seven inches shorter than the average adult in South Korea. Reason? Childhood malnutrition.

This is a fascinating story of a country that is cut off from the world, with a madman as leader, and with access to nuclear weapons.