In this compelling, behind-the-scenes account, former top CIA officer and Cuba expert Brian Latell examines the extraordinary Castro brothers and the impending dynastic succession of Fidel’s younger brother, Raul. Exploring the brothers’ remarkable relationship, he reveals how Fidel and Raul have collaborated, divided responsibilities, and resolved disagreements for more than forty-six years—a challenge to the notion that the little-known Raul has been an insignificant player. The result is an intimate portrait of two enigmatic men and a new understanding of the psychology and motivation behind their actions. Based on his insider knowledge of Raul, Latell projects what kind of leader he will be and how the shift in power might influence US-Cuban relations.
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"This book is written by the former CIA responsible for Cuba intelligence in the 50's. He gives his background on the subject of the Castro brothers, their actions, their interactions as brothers and political/militant cohorts, and he discusses their family background as well. "
— Sara (5 out of 5 stars)
“Few Americans understand Cuba—past, present, and future—better than Brian Latell. He has combined an old CIA hand’s knowledge and insights with a clear, readable writer’s touch to bring both Castros—Fidel and his enigmatic brother Raul—to life.”
— Newsweek“Those hungry for a greater understanding of Fidel’s character and the complicated relationship between the Castro brothers will find priceless nuggets here.”
— Publishers Weekly“Stefan Rudnicki’s deep, articulate voice carries the listener through the detailed commentary.”
— AudioFile“Latell dispels many of the fallacies, myths, and legends about Fidel…[A] readable narrative and an excellent addition to the growing literature on Cuba. Highly recommended.”
— Library Journal" This book is written by the former CIA responsible for Cuba intelligence in the 50's. He gives his background on the subject of the Castro brothers, their actions, their interactions as brothers and political/militant cohorts, and he discusses their family background as well. "
— Sara, 5/20/2013" Very good history and analysis. "
— Donald, 9/30/2012" Provides an interesting analysis of not only Fidel, but also his brother Raul. The book states that while Fidel is the dramatic speaker/visionary, it is Raul who is the true idealogue and more pragmatic planner. "
— Zach, 8/3/2010" Some good insider information and observations . . . Mr. Latell may need some instruction on the translation of "Son of a bitch" from Spanish to English, and it's uses in everyday arguments, including relatives. "
— Richard, 2/8/2010" In-depth biography of everything Fidel. Really in-depth, good for anyone to really fill out their knowledge of this oft misunderstood historic figure. "
— Nicko, 5/3/2009" Some good insider information and observations . . . Mr. Latell may need some instruction on the translation of "Son of a bitch" from Spanish to English, and it's uses in everyday arguments, including relatives. "
— Richard, 2/10/2009" In-depth biography of everything Fidel. Really in-depth, good for anyone to really fill out their knowledge of this oft misunderstood historic figure. "
— Nicko, 10/5/2008" Provides an interesting analysis of not only Fidel, but also his brother Raul. The book states that while Fidel is the dramatic speaker/visionary, it is Raul who is the true idealogue and more pragmatic planner. "
— Zach, 5/5/2008
Brian Latell began tracking Cuba for the CIA in the early 1960s. Today, as senior research associate at the Institute for Cuban and Cuban American Studies at the University of Miami, he continues as one of the most distinguished and frequently quoted experts. A former national intelligence officer for Latin America and director of the CIA’s Center for the Study of Intelligence, he has written for the Washington Post, Miami Herald, Wall Street Journal, Time, and many other American and international publications. He is the author of Castro’s Secrets and After Fidel, which has been translated into eight languages.
Stefan Rudnicki first became involved with audiobooks in 1994. Now a Grammy-winning audiobook producer, he has worked on more than five thousand audiobooks as a narrator, writer, producer, or director. He has narrated more than nine hundred audiobooks. A recipient of multiple AudioFile Earphones Awards, he was presented the coveted Audie Award for solo narration in 2005, 2007, and 2014, and was named one of AudioFile’s Golden Voices in 2012.