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After Fidel

The Inside Story of Castro's Regime and Cuba's Next Leader

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After Fidel

By: Brian Latell
Narrated by: Stefan Rudnicki
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About this listen

 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 46 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 U.S.-Cuban relations.From colony to Castro: learn more from Cuba (Unabridged).©2005 Brian Latell (P)2006 Blackstone Audio Inc. Americas Caribbean & Latin America Caribbean & West Indies Political Science Politicians Politics & Activism Politics & Government Presidents & Heads of State United States World Caribbean Latin American Espionage Socialism Africa Middle East Military

Critic reviews

"[T]hose hungry for a greater understanding of Fidel's character and the complicated relationship between the Castro brothers will find priceless nuggets here." ( Publishers Weekly)
"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)"Latell dispels many of the fallacies, myths, and legends about Fidel....Since existing biographical information on Raul Castro is sparse and scattered, the book takes on added value in bringing such material together....[A] readable narrative and an excellent addition to the growing literature on Cuba. Highly recommended." ( Library Journal)
All stars
Most relevant
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.

A bit dated but good

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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

Authoritative yet Biased as expected

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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.

BIASED AND ONE SIDED

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