Featuring nearly 100 diverse pieces, this collection showcases the versatility and sharp wit of Jay Nordingler, praised by Paul Johnson for his writing prowess. Mark Steyn highlights the work as a "virtuoso display," emphasizing its eclectic subjects and engaging style. The book presents a rich tapestry of insights, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate varied perspectives.
"Some years ago, the author, Jay Nordlinger, was in Albania. He was there to give a talk under State Department auspices. Albania was about ten years beyond the collapse of Communism. For almost 40 years, the country had been ruled by one of the most brutal dictators in history: Enver Hoxha. Nordlinger wondered whether this dictator had had children. He had indeed: three of them. And they were still in Albania, with their 3 million fellow citizens. Nordlinger wondered, "What are the lives of the Hoxha kids like? What must it be like to be the son or daughter of a monstrous dictator? What must it be like to bear a name synonymous with oppression, terror, and evil?" In this book, Nordlinger surveys 20 dictators in all. They are the worst of the worst: Stalin, Mao, Idi Amin, Pol Pot, Saddam Hussein, and so on. The book is not about them, really, though of course they figure in it. It's about their children. Some of them are absolute loyalists. They admire, revere, or worship their father. Some of them actually succeed their father as dictator-as in North Korea, Syria, and Haiti. Some of them have doubts. A couple of them become full-blown dissenters, even defectors. A few of the daughters have the experience of having their husband killed by their father. Most of these children are rocked by exile, prison, and the like. Obviously, the children have some things in common. But they are also individuals, making of life what they can. The main thing they have in common is this: They have been dealt a very, very unusual hand. What would you do, if you were the offspring of an infamous dictator, who lords it over your country? Chances are, you'll never have to find out! But some people have-and this book investigates those lucky, or unlucky, few"-- Provided by publisher
Exploring the complexities of growing up as the child of a notorious dictator, this book delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil faced by those who inherit a legacy of oppression and terror. It examines the struggles of identity and morality when one's name is linked to a figure as infamous as Stalin, revealing the profound impact of familial ties to power and evil. Through personal narratives, it sheds light on the challenges of reconciling personal beliefs with a troubled heritage.
Focusing on the Nobel Peace Prize's historical significance, Jay Nordlinger explores its evolution since its inception in 1901, highlighting its connection to major global events such as the World Wars and the Cold War. The narrative weaves through pivotal issues of the 20th century and beyond, examining how the prize reflects the complexities of modern life and the ongoing quest for peace amid turmoil. This comprehensive history offers insights into the prize's impact and the controversies surrounding it.