The Sorcerer of Pyongyang

In The Sorcerer of Pyongyang, Marcel Theroux explores the extraordinary atmosphere of North Korean life and the power of empathy and the human imagination to survive against the odds. Set in one of the most secretive countries in the world, the novel is based on the testimony of North Korean refugees and the author's personal experience of North Korea.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 07 July 2022
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

A captivating and captivating tale, all the more remarkable for being set in one of the world's most enigmatic nations. In his book "The Sorcerer of Pyongyang," Marcel Theroux masterfully captures the unique atmosphere of North Korean life, showcasing his wit and insightful observations.

Michael Palin, in his review, notes that "In the most isolated country on earth, a chance discovery shapes a young man's destiny."

Growing up in the midst of the devastating famine and oppression of the 1990s North Korea, 10-year-old Cho Jun-su stumbles upon a mysterious game, left behind in a hotel room by a rare foreign visitor. As Jun-su diligently deciphers the game's rules in secret, he unlocks an inner world that initially provides him with an escape from the oppressive political cult that surrounds him. However, as he delves deeper into this newfound world, he realizes that it poses a threat to the very system he has been conditioned to believe in.

Over time, the game leads Jun-su on a mesmerizing and unexpected journey through the hidden depths of his country. He experiences a range of emotions, from precocious success and glory to love, betrayal, imprisonment, and ultimately, a spell at the pinnacle of the North Korean elite. Through it all, Jun-su emerges as a hero, finding redemption and hope in the face of adversity.

"The Sorcerer of Pyongyang" is a heartfelt and uplifting tale that blends elements of love, survival, and personal growth. Inspired by the testimonies of North Korean refugees and drawing on the author's personal experiences of North Korea, the book serves as a testament to the power of empathy and the human imagination. It sheds light on the complexities and struggles of a nation that is often shrouded in secrecy and mystery, offering a glimpse into the lives of its people and the resilience they possess in the face of immense challenges.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 144 x 222 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472156945