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The Orphan Master's Son

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Adam Johnson

The Orphan Master's Son

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

442

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Korea • Contemporary

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson follows Jun Do, the son of a North Korean orphan master, who navigates a treacherous life shaped by national famine, military service, and high-stakes missions including kidnapping and espionage. After taking the identity of Commander Ga, Jun Do grapples with loyalty, identity, and survival under an oppressive regime, ultimately being immortalized as a martyr by state propaganda. This book contains depictions of physical violence.

Dark

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Emotional

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.2

115,283 ratings

77%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Adam Johnson's The Orphan Master's Son offers a gripping and often harrowing glimpse into life in North Korea. Praised for its thought-provoking narrative and intricate character development, the novel, however, faces some criticism for its sometimes improbable plot twists. Overall, it is a compelling and evocative read, blending intensity with profound human resilience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Orphan Master's Son?

Readers who relish intricate, dark narratives and complex characters would enjoy The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson. This book appeals to fans of 1984 by George Orwell and Life of Pi by Yann Martel, offering a gripping, thought-provoking exploration of North Korean life and identity under an oppressive regime.

4.2

115,283 ratings

77%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Jun Do

A North Korean "John Doe" who navigates the complexities of life under an oppressive regime, enduring roles that range from orphanage worker to military tunnel fighter, and finding himself involved in espionage and deception.

A despot with a deceptively benign nickname, portrayed as contradictory and capricious, whose feelings play a significant role in the lives of several characters, including a famous actress.

A well-regarded actress in North Korea, chosen by the Dear Leader for her beauty and talent, who seeks a better life amidst the challenges and expectations of her role in society.

A prison mine inmate and former university professor who becomes an important confidante and source of support for Jun Do during a critical period of his life.

A minister of procurement with a familial connection to the Party, he befriends Jun Do in complex personal and political circumstances, reflecting both loyalty and inner conflict.

A young member of the Pubyok, known for her brutal tactics and ambition, who represents the emerging face of the inquisitive and authoritarian state forces.

A character who collects and analyzes the stories of others, driven by curiosity and a desire for understanding, set apart by his more thoughtful approach to interrogation.

Book Details
Pages

442

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Korea • Contemporary

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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