The Master, North Korea, and a Pulitzer

Part of being an author is being able to transport readers to distant, fantastical lands even if, sometimes, those lands aren’t all that distant or fantastical. With his third novel, The Orphan Master’s Son, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Adam Johnson chose North Korea as the backdrop for his tale of love...

By Carolina del Busto

July 11, 2013

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Part of being an author is being able to transport readers to distant, fantastical lands even if, sometimes, those lands aren’t all that distant or fantastical. With his third novel, The Orphan Master’s Son, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Adam Johnson chose North Korea as the backdrop for his tale of love and tribulation. Although the novel fictionalizes a nonfictional place, some stories are better told through the lens of creativity. Through the protagonist, Pak Jun Do, Johnson gives readers a dynamic character who is both fearsome and favorable. It is difficult to garner sympathy for a government kidnapper, but Jun Do’s personal journey and his love for Sun Moon will thrill you. In just 480 pages, Johnson is able to tell a story with elements of a romance, a dictatorship, and ultimately an epic. Now is your chance to hear the Stanford University English professor talk about his latest novel. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session and even get your copy of The Orphan Master’s Son signed. Johnson will be at Books & Books (265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables) this Monday. The event is free and begins at 8 p.m. Call 305-442-4408 or visit booksandbooks.com.
Mon., July 15, 8 p.m., 2013

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Carolina del Busto is a freelance writer for Miami New Times. She nurtured her love of words at Boston College before moving back home to Miami and has been covering arts and culture in the Magic City since 2013.

Contact: Carolina del Busto

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