Books Like...

'How Europe Underdeveloped Africa' by Walter Rodney is a detailed analysis of the historical factors contributing to Africa's underdevelopment compared to the 'First World'. Rodney's writing style is described as accessible and informative, providing a chronological sequence of Africa's development and European interference. He delves into the impact of slavery and colonialism on African societies, highlighting the strategies employed by Europeans to exploit and suppress the continent. Rodney's work is considered a seminal piece on the legacy of European destruction in Africa, offering a broad background on the history of European involvement on the continent.

'The Divide: A Brief Guide to Global Inequality and its Solutions' by Jason Hickel delves into the topic of global inequality, shedding light on the stark disparities between the developed and developing world. Through a combination of economic analysis and historical context, the author challenges the conventional approach to development and offers viable solutions to address the pressing issues faced by society. The writing style is described as thought-provoking, eye-opening, and compelling, with the author skillfully weaving together narratives of past injustices and present realities to paint a comprehensive picture of the world's socio-economic landscape.

"The State and Revolution" by Vladimir Lenin is a political treatise that aims to clarify and connect the dots of Marxist theory, providing a coherent and clear message of the Communist system. Lenin discusses arguments against socialism, the steps to achieve full communism, what that would look like, and why socialism is necessary, especially after the European revolutions of the 19th century. The book delves into the creation and existence of states, the memory of revolutionary thinkers, and the withering of the state according to Marxian theory.

Lenin's writing style in "The State and Revolution" is praised for its clarity and cutting analysis that remains relevant even a century after its first publication in 1917. Readers appreciate Lenin's perspective, breakdown of Marx and Engels' writings, and the valuable insights provided on the necessity of socialism. The book is seen as a wonderful read that offers a mix of light-hearted commentary and valuable theory, making it a recommended read for those interested in understanding communism and leftist ideologies.

'Washington Bullets' by Vijay Prashad is a scintillating read that delves into the dark side of US foreign policy and imperialism. It educates readers on the consequences of American actions on other countries, shedding light on the machinery of geopolitics employed by the US to promote its interests, often at the expense of others. Prashad's writing style is praised for being eloquent, concise, and informative, providing a comprehensive overview of the US's history of political assassinations, government overthrows, and military interventions since World War II.

'Blackshirts and Reds: Rational Fascism and the Overthrow of Communism' by Michael Parenti draws parallels between historical events and contemporary issues, debunking myths about former communist regimes while highlighting the importance of awareness and resistance against fascism. Through a methodical examination, the book provides insights into the forces that shaped the modern world, making it a valuable resource for those interested in equity, the future of society, and understanding the dynamics between authoritarianism and communism. With a succinct and accessible writing style, Parenti differentiates fascism from socialism, offering a critical analysis of capitalism's relationship with fascism.

'Open Veins of Latin America: Five Centuries of the Pillage of a Continent' by Eduardo Galeano is a historical masterpiece that delves deep into the exploitation and plunder faced by Latin America over the centuries. Galeano's writing style offers a poetic and vivid portrayal of the continent's tumultuous past, highlighting the impacts of European colonization, economic domination, and political upheavals on the region. The book covers a broad scope of Latin American history, shedding light on the struggles of the indigenous populations, the influence of foreign powers, and the enduring consequences of these historical events on the present-day socio-political landscape.

"Revolutionary Suicide" by Huey P. Newton is a memoir detailing the struggles and experiences of the author before and during the creation of the Black Panther Party. It portrays Newton as a committed revolutionary, focused on action and results, despite facing insurmountable circumstances. The narrative delves into his intellectual growth, from self-teaching himself to read using Plato's works to developing a deep understanding of revolutionary ideologies like Marxism and Maoism.

Newton's writing style captivates readers through a candid account of his life, showcasing his vulnerability and honesty. provides a nuanced perspective on Newton's journey, from his upbringing in a loving yet resource-strained family to his role as a leader in the Black Panther Party. The narrative not only highlights Newton's personal growth but also sheds light on the socio-political climate of the time, making it an engaging and enlightening read.

'King Leopold's Ghost' by Adam Hochschild is a powerful and disturbing account of King Leopold II's colonization of the Congo. The book delves into the atrocities committed during this period, shedding light on the exploitation, violence, and greed that characterized Leopold's rule. Through meticulous research and clear, journalistic writing, Hochschild brings to life the horrors faced by the Congolese people, while also highlighting the heroes who fought against such injustices. The narrative is chilling, revealing a dark chapter in history that continues to impact the region even today.

Vincent Bevins' book, 'The Jakarta Method', delves into the dark history of Washington's anticommunist crusade and the mass murder program that had a profound impact on the world. Through extensive research and compelling storytelling, Bevins uncovers the brutal realities of imperialism, CIA interventions, and the violent suppression of socialist movements in various third world countries. The book sheds light on the ruthless tactics employed by the U.S. government to further its interests, the devastating consequences of these actions on local populations, and the lasting effects that still resonate today.

'Killing Hope: U.S. Military and C.I.A. Interventions Since World War II' by William Blum is a detailed and heart-wrenching history of the USA's involvement in torture and murder in dozens of different countries in the last 60 years. The book meticulously documents American interventions throughout the world, including well-known events like Korea and Vietnam, as well as lesser-known interventions. Blum's writing style presents a harrowing picture of deceit, denial, and amoral manipulation to secure the industrial military political equilibrium, working chronologically through the last 60 years of political history.

Blum's 'Killing Hope' is described as a devastating attack on America's actual foreign policies, as opposed to the propaganda fed to the public. The book provides a damning view of US CIA policy since WWII, offering highly opinionated hot takes on US actions abroad, covering events from the '53 overthrow of Mossadegh to Dubya's invasion of Panama. The author's meticulous documentation, lack of indulgence in repetition, and use of mainstream sources like the NYT for citations make this book a detailed and shocking reference for understanding US foreign interventions post-WWII.