AUTOCRACY, INC. The Dictators Who Want to Run the World

The author of this important audiobook about autocrats and their dealings is also its narrator. That isn't unusual in nonfiction, and it has its advantages: A committed expert brings authority and, often, experience with public speaking to the role. Thus, this author/narrator compellingly describes her rogues list of autocrats, ranging from China's Xi Jinping and Russia's Vladimir Putin to Hungary's Viktor Orbán and Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro. Applebaum explains how each surrounds himself with corrupt enablers as he climbs to the pinnacle of power. She outlines their methods for keeping their citizenry in line and for wreaking havoc on countries that disagree with their ideology--and notes ways to counteract their power. Especially important is her cogently argued belief that ordinary citizens can ultimately prevail. L.W.S. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2024]