A short but interesting read, that is more akin to travel notes from filming a documentary than going into depth, about a country many people don't get to visit. I am however now keen to watch the documentary. ( )

This short travelogue certainly doesn't break any new ground, but it is a breezy, enjoyable read worth the three hour time investment it will require of you. Palin is both honest and gracious, finding, as one would expect of him, a dignified middle ground between George Bush's "axis of evil" hysterics and Bruce Cummings's "just another country" apologetics. If you've already read other accounts written by visitors to North Korea, you won't really find anything new here. As usual, Palin is only allowed to see what his minders want him to see, and any attempt to break through the propaganda recitations in order to have a real, productive conversation is quickly shut down. The only avenue for genuine human interaction is through things like sharing a meal or playing games. Palin tries his best to find the real North Korea by testing boundaries, but he is a very polite guest and his gentle nudging of his hosts never degrades into a rude pushing.

And so I'd say this account isn't terribly enlightening, but Palin writes well and his bonhomie and belief that all gaps can be bridged and lead to respect and appreciation for all the world's peoples if only we give them a chance, is infectious. ( )

Not a bad piece of work for a lumberjack. Of course you can’t not bring along your past memories of Michael Palin because his work has just been to damn funny. Palin’s subtle acknowledgement of his Python past, and his honest portrayal of his experience in, at least from most western eyes, the most secretive culture on earth very quickly focuses the reader on North Korea and her people. Always respectful, Palin is not shy to mention the challenges and hardships his hosts live with daily. ( )

This book really made me want to see the documentary. Well illustrated. Good story teller. Quick read. ( )

Probably wasn't a great idea by me to read about a dystopian society while the Covid-19 pandemic seemed to be bringing an end to the world as we know it. Still, the mature Michael Palin is a treasure, and none of his writings should be missed. (Maybe save this book to be read during cheerier times, though.) ( )