“The Kims rule by making everyone complicit in a brutal system, implicating all, from the highest to the lowest, blurring morals so that no one is blameless.”–Hyeonseo Lee, The Girl With the Seven Names
This is the incredible true story of Hyeonseo Lee and her somewhat accidental escape from North Korea. With the secrecy surrounding North Korea and what life there is really like, Lee’s account of growing up there is fascinating. Lee was only seventeen when she escaped and didn’t realize how long it would be before she saw her family again. Escape was just the first challenge. Remaining free and reuniting with her family were almost impossible dreams. Her story is one of determination, luck, patience, and hope. It also emphasizes the impact of a stranger’s kindness.
This book is a good reminder that despite the challenges within our own country, there are millions of people who live in less than ideal circumstances under a brutal dictator. Thank you, Hyeonseo Lee, for being brave enough to share your story with the world and reminding us of the blessings of living in a free country.
Content Advisory: Brutality, death, trafficking, abuse