The World's Hot Spots - North Korea

From School Library Journal Grade 8 Up–A collection of essays and periodical excerpts that discusses the situation within the country and its relationships within the world community. The book expounds on the reasons that North Korea is so often in the news. The introduction outlines the nation's history and its relationships with South Korea, the United States, and the Soviet Union. Primary sources include entries by Bok Ku Lee, George W. Bush, and John Bolton, and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's announcement of its withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in January 2003. Some of the essays include analysis. The majority of the selections lean toward a United States bias and a post-9/11 mentality, but perspectives that are critical of the United States are still evident, which results in a well-rounded, interesting collection of views. Illustration is limited to a couple of maps and one photo, but the index is detailed. A useful tool for debate and discussion.