A bit dated but good

Published in 2005, before Fidel stepped aside for Raul, the book provides an interesting portrait of the brothers and their relationship. It also provides some interesting insight into the work of US intelligence. The book assumes a basic knowledge of recent Cuban history.

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Authoritative yet Biased as expected

Can’t rely on CIA man to be fair, super biased American sentiments of historic facts.
High volume of the details may be real and accurate but twisted beyond reason to demonize the Cuban revolution while failing to condemn American foreign policy and imperialism

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BIASED AND ONE SIDED

What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you?

Cuba is a fascinating country and the Castro brothers are very worthy of a book which objectively analyses what they have done in Cuba and elsewhere. Since 1958 when they overthrew the Batista regime (which had American backing) the Cuban government and people have achieved many things, e.g. free education for all (regardless of age or what is studied), virtually 100% literacy rates, a higher doctor to patient ratio than any western/developed country, it is a tropical country where tropical diseases have been eradicated. Nothing positive whatsoever gets a mention from the author. i could mention the fact that Fidel kicked out the mafia soon after taking power, the extremes of rich and poor in countries like America and more.

What could Brian Latell have done to make this a more enjoyable book for you?

He was a CIA agent, specialising in Cuba and its leaders. Perhaps predictably, all he has done is toe the CIA/USA line - "Cuba is communist so it must be bad". For example, he talks about what Cuba sending soldiers to other countries to fight governments and encourage revolution, the fact that for many years Cuba sent thousands of doctors to many poorer countries and disaster zones around the worked merits less than a sentence. May I also point out that one of the governments that Cuban soldiers fought against was the evil and apartheid South African government.

What didn’t you like about Stefan Rudnicki’s performance?

Nothing. But I don't blame him. He's just reading the author's words.

You didn’t love this book--but did it have any redeeming qualities?

None.

Any additional comments?

Save your money. Buy, for example, The Motor Cycle Diaries and find out why revolution was deemed necessary and the dreadful conditions of the working class/poor in South America then (and perhaps now). I'm no communist but I am capable of being objective, unlike the author. I might even ask for my money back on this book.

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3 people found this helpful