I've just started the Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson and I just have to say that it's a good thing I read a good review of it (here) if only cause the first line didn't thrill me into wanting more.
"Citizens, gather round your loudspeakers, for we bring important updates! In your kitchens, in your offices, on your factory floors-wherever your loudspeaker is located, turn up the volume!"
Now, the second paragraph is where he starts the appetite whetting both for Kim Jong Il propaganda and some humor.
"In local news, our Dear Leader Kim Jong Il was seen offering on-the-spot guidance to the engineers deepening the Taedong River channel. While the Dear Leader lectured to the dredge operators, many doves were seen to spontaneously flock above him, hovering to provide our Revered General some much needed shade on a hot day. Also to report is a request from Pyongyang's Minister of Public Safety, who asks that while pigeon snaring season is in full swing, trip wires and snatch loops be placed out of reach of our youngest comrades. And don't forget citizens: the ban on stargazing is still in effect."
Who could crack a smile at the doves hovering to provide shade.
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