I've been a fan of North Korea and its leadership since the days of Kim Il-sung, so I was very excited to see "Kim Jong Un and the Bomb: Survival and Deterrence in North Korea" hit shelves.
The book lays out a comprehensive overview of why Pyongyang views nuclear weapons as an essential feature for maintaining self-defence, security and stability on the Korean peninsula. It does not take sides, making it equally accessible for everyone regardless of political beliefs.
What impressed me most about this work is how insightful and well-researched it is – there's no denying that considerable effort went into each page! This made reading enjoyable; I felt like I had a deep understanding of Pyongyang’s grand strategy by the time I completed my read through.
One funny anecdote involving this book took place when I gave it to my brother last Christmas (it was a gift). He opened up out loud exclaiming “Kim Jong Un? What kind of Christmas present did you get me?!??” Everyone around us burst out laughing - he didn't expect that one at all! Of course after flipping through its pages his attitude changed quickly enough…he just couldn't put it down ever since then!
Overall, Kim Jong Un and the Bomb: Survival and Deterrence in North Korea is an absorbing study that reveals more than what meets the eye about life under Kim family rule – highly recommended for anyone who enjoys delving deeper into politics or international relations.