"A family is where the love of humanity dwells, and it is a beautiful world where hope flourishes." This is the final sentence in Paek's book.  Paek, Nam-nyong. Friend (Weatherhead Books on Asia) . Columbia University Press. Kindle Edition.  Published in 1988 it is one of the few North Korean novels to reach an international audience. It's unique that it is a state-sanctioned book by a leading North Korean author in good standing.

       Ignoring the paeans to socialist society's ideals, the book is rife with perceptive observations on marriage, the human condition, and the ways people feel and think. Character development is well done so empathy with the characters develops easily. The good hearted divorce judge, the main character, is a very engaging person. 

     Paek's descriptions of nature are classic. Describing the wind as rushing without a home, going as if being chased gives a whole new way of thinking of it. His descriptions of the sights, sounds and smells of spring after a long cold winter transports the reader to the scene.   

    In all it was a fascinating read on many levels, so, yes, I recommend it.

A boat ride is scheduled for this afternoon followed by dinner. Therefore, this early post.

Takk for alt,

Al

    

                          This is how I feel after a long car ride.