In the shadowy landscape of North Korea, 'The Orphan Master's Son' follows the harrowing journey of Jun Do, a boy raised in an orphanage, who is thrust into a world of espionage, deception, and survival. As he rises through the ranks of power, he assumes identities and navigates the treacherous waters of a totalitarian regime, all while searching for love and a sense of self. The novel weaves a profound narrative of resilience and resistance against oppressive forces. With each twist, the boundaries between reality and illusion blur, leaving readers questioning the very nature of truth. Will Jun Do's quest for freedom ultimately lead to his downfall, or can he outsmart the system that seeks to control him?
By Adam Johnson
Published: 2012
"In a world where identity is a blade to cut through the dark, we discover that telling the truth may be the most subversive act of all."
The Pulitzer Prize–winning, New York Times bestselling novel of North Korea: an epic journey into the heart of the world’s most mysterious dictatorship. “Imagine Charles Dickens paying a visit to Pyongyang, and you see the canvas on which [Adam] Johnson is painting here.”—The Washington Post Pak Jun Do is the haunted son of a lost mother—a singer “stolen” to Pyongyang—and an influential father who runs a work camp for orphans. Superiors in the North Korean state soon recognize the boy’s loyalty and keen instincts. Considering himself “a humble citizen of the greatest nation in the world,” Jun Do rises in the ranks. He becomes a professional kidnapper who must navigate the shifting rules, arbitrary violence, and baffling demands of his overlords in order to stay alive. Driven to the absolute limit of what any human being could endure, he boldly takes on the treacherous role of rival to Kim Jong Il in an attempt to save the woman he loves, Sun Moon, a legendary actress “so pure, she didn’t know what starving people looked like.” Part breathless thriller, part story of innocence lost, part story of romantic love, The Orphan Master’s Son is also a riveting portrait of a world heretofore hidden from view: a North Korea rife with hunger, corruption, and casual cruelty but also camaraderie, stolen moments of beauty, and love. FINALIST FOR THE NATIONAL BOOK CRITICS CIRCLE AWARD • WINNER OF THE DAYTON LITERARY PEACE PRIZE Named ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR by more than a dozen publications, including The Washington Post • Entertainment Weekly • The Wall Street Journal • Los Angeles Times • San Francisco Chronicle Praise for The Orphan Master’s Son “An exquisitely crafted novel that carries the reader on an adventuresome journey into the depths of totalitarian North Korea and into the most intimate spaces of the human heart.”—Pulitzer Prize citation “Mr. Johnson has written a daring and remarkable novel, a novel that not only opens a frightening window on the mysterious kingdom of North Korea, but one that also excavates the very meaning of love and sacrifice.”—Michiko Kakutani, The New York Times “Rich with a sense of discovery . . . The Orphan Master’s Son has an early lead on novel of [the year].”—The Daily Beast “This is a novel worth getting excited about.”—The Washington Post “[A] ripping piece of fiction that is also an astute commentary on the nature of freedom, sacrifice, and glory.”—Elle
Showing 8 of 28 similar books
Douglas Murray is a renowned British author, journalist, and political commentator known for his incisive works on contemporary political and social issues. He gained significant acclaim with his book "The Strange Death of Europe: Immigration, Identity, Islam," which critically examines the impact of mass migration and cultural change in Europe. Murray is also the author of "The Madness of Crowds: Gender, Race and Identity," where he explores the complexities and consequences of identity politics. As an associate editor at The Spectator, he regularly contributes thought-provoking articles on global affairs and cultural debates. His eloquent and often controversial perspectives have made him a prominent voice in modern discourse.
Cal Fussman is a journalist, author, and podcast host known for his long-form interviews with world leaders, celebrities, and business icons. Fussman gained prominence through his work at Esquire magazine, where he wrote the “What I’ve Learned” column, capturing the wisdom and life lessons of influential people. He is also the host of Big Questions, a podcast where he engages guests in deep, thoughtful conversations about life and success. Fussman’s interview style is marked by his curiosity and ability to draw out meaningful insights from his subjects. His work has earned him a reputation as one of the best interviewers of his generation.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC, is a U.S. Congresswoman representing New York's 14th district. She gained national attention after winning her seat in 2018 at the age of 29, making her one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. Ocasio-Cortez is known for her progressive policies, advocating for issues such as Medicare for All, climate change action, and economic justice. She has become a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and uses social media to engage with constituents and the public. Her rise from grassroots activism to Congress has inspired many young people to get involved in politics.
Cheryl Strayed is an acclaimed American author best known for her memoir "Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail," which became a New York Times bestseller and was later adapted into an Oscar-nominated film starring Reese Witherspoon. Born in 1968, Strayed's writing often explores themes of grief, survival, and self-discovery, drawing from her own life experiences. She has also penned the bestselling advice collection "Tiny Beautiful Things" and the novel "Torch." Beyond her books, Strayed's essays and writings have appeared in major publications like The New York Times and The Washington Post. Her work has resonated with a wide audience, cementing her status as a significant contemporary voice in literature.
Emilia Clarke is a British actress best known for her iconic role as Daenerys Targaryen in the critically acclaimed television series "Game of Thrones," which earned her multiple award nominations. Although her primary fame stems from her acting career, Clarke has also ventured into literature. She co-authored the comic book series "M.O.M.: Mother of Madness," which showcases her creative versatility. Clarke's work in both acting and writing highlights her dedication to storytelling in various forms. Additionally, she is an advocate for several charitable causes, including her own foundation, SameYou, which supports brain injury recovery.
Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
Showing 8 of 17 related collections
“In a world where identity is a blade to cut through the dark, we discover that telling the truth may be the most subversive act of all.”
The Orphan Master's Son
By Adam Johnson
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Adam Johnson is an acclaimed American author known for his profound storytelling and intricate character development. He gained widespread recognition for his Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, 'The Orphan Master's Son,' which explores themes of identity and resilience in North Korea. His other notable works include 'Fortune Smiles,' a collection of short stories that reflect on the intersections of technology, morality, and human connection, and 'The Largesse of the Sea Maiden,' which delves into the complexities of human relationships. Johnson's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose, depth of emotion, and thoughtful examination of socio-political issues.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEY'S WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 'A delicious, important novel' The Times 'Alert, alive and gripping' Independent 'Some novels tell a great story and others make you change the way you look at the world. Americanah does both.' Guardian As teenagers in a Lagos secondary school, Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Their Nigeria is under military dictatorship, and people are fleeing the country if they can. Ifemelu--beautiful, self-assured--departs for America to study. She suffers defeats and triumphs, finds and loses relationships and friendships, all the while feeling the weight of something she never thought of back home: race. Obinze--the quiet, thoughtful son of a professor--had hoped to join her, but post-9/11 America will not let him in, and he plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Thirteen years later, Obinze is a wealthy man in a newly democratic Nigeria, while Ifemelu has achieved success as a writer of an eye-opening blog about race in America. But when Ifemelu returns to Nigeria, and she and Obinze reignite their shared passion--for their homeland and for each other--they will face the toughest decisions of their lives. Fearless, gripping, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story of love and expectation set in today's globalized world.
In 'Good Calories, Bad Calories,' Gary Taubes challenges conventional dietary wisdom, asserting that not all calories are created equal. He delves into the history of nutrition science, revealing how misplaced beliefs about fat and carbohydrates have misled society for decades. Through meticulous research, Taubes exposes the flaws in popular diet regimes and argues for a reevaluation of our approach to food. This compelling read raises questions about the true causes of obesity and chronic diseases. Prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about nutrition!
No summary available
'Slaughterhouse-Five' follows the unconventional journey of Billy Pilgrim, a soldier who becomes 'unstuck in time' and experiences moments from his life out of sequence. As he navigates through the horrors of World War II, including the firebombing of Dresden, the narrative intertwines elements of science fiction and anti-war sentiment. Vonnegut's unique blend of dark humor and poignant commentary challenges the nature of free will and the chaos of war. Will Billy ever come to terms with his fragmented existence and the absurdity of human conflict? Join him on a mind-bending odyssey that questions reality and morality.
In 'The Kinfolk Table,' Nathan Williams invites readers into a world where food and community intertwine seamlessly. This beautifully photographed book showcases home-cooked recipes and stories from diverse individuals, emphasizing the importance of gathering with loved ones. Each dish tells a tale, celebrating simplicity and connection over elaborate preparations. With inspiration drawn from various cultures, readers will discover a newfound appreciation for the act of sharing meals. Join the journey of creating meaningful moments at the table and learn how to cultivate a warm and welcoming kitchen atmosphere.
Set against the turbulent backdrop of 1960s America, 'American Tabloid' delves into the murky world of crime, politics, and media manipulation. Following the intertwined lives of three flawed protagonists, the novel unravels the dark underbelly of the JFK assassination conspiracy. With Ellroy's signature noir style, readers are thrust into a relentless narrative filled with betrayal and moral ambiguity. The vivid portrayal of historical events challenges perceptions and blurs the lines between truth and fiction. Can you decipher the hidden narratives that shaped a nation?
In 'Everyday Heroes', Jody Mitic shares his remarkable journey from a soldier to a motivational speaker, illustrating how ordinary individuals can become extraordinary through their actions. The book delves into his life-altering experiences in war and the deep connections formed during difficult times. Mitic's storytelling is infused with inspiration, as he highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the power of everyday acts of courage. Readers will find themselves captivated by the relatable tales of struggle, triumph, and the occasional humor that punctuates life's challenges. Ultimately, 'Everyday Heroes' invites us all to recognize our potential to make a difference in the lives of others.
In 'Data-Driven Marketing,' Mark Jeffery unveils the transformative power of leveraging analytics to drive strategic marketing decisions. He provides a treasure trove of insights into how data can illuminate customer behavior and optimize campaigns for unprecedented success. Through compelling case studies and practical frameworks, Jeffery demonstrates how organizations can shift from intuition-based to evidence-based marketing. This book is not just a guide; it's a call to action for marketers looking to harness the immense potential of data. Are you ready to revolutionize your marketing strategy and outperform your competition?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
