Book Review: In the Shadow of the Sun

This book was provided by Kid Lit Exchange (definitely check out their awesome, new website!!!). All opinions are my own. :)

In the Shadow of the Sun by Anne Sibley O'Brien

Review: At a time when North Korea has emerged a one of the most dangerous nations in the world, this June 2017 book by Anne Sibley O'Brien is nothing if not timely. Set in North Korea, 12 year old Mia is on a guided tour with her older brother Simon and their father. During their visit, Mia receives a phone containing horrific photos of starving people, dead babies. She feels a responsibility to get these photographs out to the public, but when their father is arrested for supposedly spying, Mia and Simon decide to run to China, taking the phone, and it's dangerous content, with them. The novel is the story of the incredible hardships they face as they make their way through the North Korean countryside. 

This is an exciting novel with a completely realistic representation of the political and cultural conditions that shape the lives of the people of North Korea. It almost felt as if parts of the novel were excerpts of a journalistic narrative. What I loved about the novel was that Mia's story is interrupted with short vignettes of some of the people whom are associated with Mia and Simon, some more directly than others, such as one of their tour guides, a member of the police force, and a teenager who has been conscripted into the military. These mini-stories give the reader a look into the lives of numerous people living in North Korea and how the current regime affects them and their families. It was fascinating and I have already recommended the novel to some of my students.

Rating: 5/5