Brendan’s Alternate Tagline for The Sister:
Hell hath no fury like a dictator’s sister.
Quick synopsis:
A look at the sister of North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, Kim Yo Jong.
Fact for Non-History People:
The official name of North Korea is the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. It is neither a democracy nor a republic, for the record.
Fact for History Nerds:
Between 1954 and 1992, North Korea has sent about 3,700 armed agents into South Korea.
My Take on The Sister:
I think we are all pretty aware that Kim Jong Un is a psychopath just like his father and grandfather. But don’t worry, if you are afraid we will run out of murderous despots if the Supreme Leader croaks, his sociopath little sister is ready in the wings! Say hello to Kim Yo Jong!
The Sister by Sung-Yoon Lee is a fantastic look at how Kim Yo Jong is basically her brother’s other half. Now, other reviewers have pointed out that there is precious little information in the book about Kim Yo Jong as a person. This is true, but it’s not the fault of Lee, but it is certainly the fault of the North Korean political apparatus. Lee fills in as much as he can, but what I truly loved about this book is that Lee interprets the actions of North Korea for people unfamiliar with the culture. Multiple times Lee states the facts of an event, summit, or message and then explains what they actually mean and how those actions illuminate the duplicity of North Korea.
To put it simply, Lee doesn’t just tell a story. He also educates. And he does so in such simple and clear language that I was sad when the book ended. Unfortunately, I think Kim Yo Jung may give Lee more fodder for a second book very soon.
(This book was provided as a courtesy copy by the publisher.)
Verdict:
Utterly fascinating. Buy it here!
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