'This book is an extraordinary achievement,
the culmination of a lifetime's work.'
– Anthony Giddens
'What a difference a book can make...
The width and depth of Keane's erudition are stunning.'
– David Aaronovitch
'During the era of dictatorship, in defence of our opposition,
John Keane wrote under the pen name of Erica Blair. In
the spirit of George Orwell, he showed bravery and solidarity,
the same qualities found in this book. I highly recommend it.'
– Adam Michnik
'It is a masterpiece of historical writing and at the same time
a major contribution to contemporary debate. This book will
have a long and influential life.'
– Ralf Dahrendorf