Some books you read for the beautiful writing, some for the entertainment and others like this one for the knowledge they impart. This is a powerful story that details what it was like to grow up in North Korea. Park details the lack of play, the work & the brainwashing that made up her childhood. Later she lives through the famine of the 1990's and the brutality she faced after she escaped. I loved this book & consider it a must read. 5 stars!