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A Vida Secreta de Fidel
Poucos estiveram tão perto ou souberam da vida do líder máximo de Cuba quanto Juan Reinaldo Sánchez, seu guarda-costas pessoal. Ao longo de dezessete anos, ele foi responsável pela segurança de Fidel, mas também testemunha de seus relacionamentos, de sua vida em família, de suas horas de lazer, de suas estratégias políticas, entre outraPoucos estiveram tão perto ou souberam da vida do líder máximo de Cuba quanto Juan Reinaldo Sánchez, seu guarda-costas pessoal.
Ao longo de dezessete anos, ele foi responsável pela segurança de Fidel, mas também testemunha de seus relacionamentos, de sua vida em família, de suas horas de lazer, de suas estratégias políticas, entre outras tantas coisas.
Até as revelações de Sánchez, poucos sabiam que Fidel tinha uma ilha deserta.
Primeiro livro com revelações de alguém que realmente pertenceu ao círculo próximo de Fidel Castro.
Assim que foi publicado na França, a notícia repercutiu em jornais de todo o mundo, inclusive no Brasil.
O livro tem caderno de fotos e diversas curiosidades sobre este grande personagem paradisíaca para onde levava a família e poucos convidados - num belo iate ou em seu helicóptero - ou então quais eram seus hábitos alimentares, baseados principalmente em alimentos orgânicos.
Em parceria com Axel Gylden, repórter da revista francesa L'Express, Sánchez nos revela segredos de Estado e as múltiplas faces do ditador cubano, a partir de fatos que presenciou e que expõe sem julgamentos. Esse testemunho nos leva a reconsiderar tudo que sempre foi dito sobre Cuba e sobre Fidel Castro.s tantas coisas. Até as revelações de Sánchez, poucos sabiam que Fidel tinha uma ilha deserta paradisíaca para onde levava a família e poucos convidados — num belo iate ou em seu helicóptero — ou então quais eram seus hábitos alimentares, baseados principalmente em alimentos orgânicos. Em parceria com Axel Gylden, repórter da revista francesa L’Express, Sánchez nos revela segredos de Estado e as múltiplas faces do ditador cubano, a partir de fatos que presenciou e que expõe sem julgamentos. Esse testemunho nos leva a reconsiderar tudo que sempre foi dito sobre Cuba e sobre Fidel Castro.
Ao longo de dezessete anos, ele foi responsável pela segurança de Fidel, mas também testemunha de seus relacionamentos, de sua vida em família, de suas horas de lazer, de suas estratégias políticas, entre outras tantas coisas.
Até as revelações de Sánchez, poucos sabiam que Fidel tinha uma ilha deserta.
Primeiro livro com revelações de alguém que realmente pertenceu ao círculo próximo de Fidel Castro.
Assim que foi publicado na França, a notícia repercutiu em jornais de todo o mundo, inclusive no Brasil.
O livro tem caderno de fotos e diversas curiosidades sobre este grande personagem paradisíaca para onde levava a família e poucos convidados - num belo iate ou em seu helicóptero - ou então quais eram seus hábitos alimentares, baseados principalmente em alimentos orgânicos.
Em parceria com Axel Gylden, repórter da revista francesa L'Express, Sánchez nos revela segredos de Estado e as múltiplas faces do ditador cubano, a partir de fatos que presenciou e que expõe sem julgamentos. Esse testemunho nos leva a reconsiderar tudo que sempre foi dito sobre Cuba e sobre Fidel Castro.s tantas coisas. Até as revelações de Sánchez, poucos sabiam que Fidel tinha uma ilha deserta paradisíaca para onde levava a família e poucos convidados — num belo iate ou em seu helicóptero — ou então quais eram seus hábitos alimentares, baseados principalmente em alimentos orgânicos. Em parceria com Axel Gylden, repórter da revista francesa L’Express, Sánchez nos revela segredos de Estado e as múltiplas faces do ditador cubano, a partir de fatos que presenciou e que expõe sem julgamentos. Esse testemunho nos leva a reconsiderar tudo que sempre foi dito sobre Cuba e sobre Fidel Castro.
224 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
October 21, 2015
I read this 3 sittings over 24 hours - fully riveted.
Juan Reinaldo Sanchez has seen a lot of the world and even more of life in service to Cuba, or more accurately, Fidel Castro. Upon his 2008 defection, he must have been a treasure trove for the CIA.
Because of his top security position he is able to tell how El Lider Maximo was able to elude over 600 assassination attempts. Castro’s personal security apparatus is a marvel, well supported with personnel and technology. You learn of his special food, how his clothes are laundered, how his double functions, how the staff is trained and scheduled and how Castro is involved in every detail. Besides his security work, Sanchez helped in compiling his boss’ diary/daily log, which if it survives, will fascinate scholars for generations.
Dr. Selman, Castro’s physician also deserves respect for his work. He has kept alive his only patient who has had some form of cancer since the 1980’s. Dr. Selman has at his disposal a private clinic for this sole patient and has on hand two men who share Castro’s rare blood type.
There is more here on the Castro family and their living situations than I have ever seen. Castro’s many houses and their appointments stand in contrast to his wardrobe. The book opens on Castro’s yacht and a description of an island estate. Later there are descriptions of his other homes, each more fitting a capitalist than the head of a poor communist nation. Sanchez tells of his 9 children by 5 women and where they are and what they are doing today.
I have read of Castro's friendship of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, but no where have I seen how close it was. Gabo had his own living quarters in Havana and appears often in this book. He surely knew of his friend’s double life.
Sanchez reminds the reader of Castro’s influence world-wide. While he has had mixed success with his international interference he is celebrated in communist countries, dictatorships and countries in rebellion. Sanchez has some interesting observations and anecdotes on traveling with Castro.
Following his incarceration (and torture) for wanting to retire early (although he doesn’t connect it, it could be his son and daughter’s defections or Castro’s paranoia following the Ochoa affair), Sanchez’s defection took 12 years. He was closely followed and foiled by his need to be successful and discrete, the weather and other circumstances. His security training served him well in his escape.
I expect that a lot here is not just new to me, but truly new. The book is full of information. While it is written in a conversational voice, there are few spare words. Besides the light shown on Castro, you also learn Sanchez's remarkable story.
Juan Reinaldo Sanchez has seen a lot of the world and even more of life in service to Cuba, or more accurately, Fidel Castro. Upon his 2008 defection, he must have been a treasure trove for the CIA.
Because of his top security position he is able to tell how El Lider Maximo was able to elude over 600 assassination attempts. Castro’s personal security apparatus is a marvel, well supported with personnel and technology. You learn of his special food, how his clothes are laundered, how his double functions, how the staff is trained and scheduled and how Castro is involved in every detail. Besides his security work, Sanchez helped in compiling his boss’ diary/daily log, which if it survives, will fascinate scholars for generations.
Dr. Selman, Castro’s physician also deserves respect for his work. He has kept alive his only patient who has had some form of cancer since the 1980’s. Dr. Selman has at his disposal a private clinic for this sole patient and has on hand two men who share Castro’s rare blood type.
There is more here on the Castro family and their living situations than I have ever seen. Castro’s many houses and their appointments stand in contrast to his wardrobe. The book opens on Castro’s yacht and a description of an island estate. Later there are descriptions of his other homes, each more fitting a capitalist than the head of a poor communist nation. Sanchez tells of his 9 children by 5 women and where they are and what they are doing today.
I have read of Castro's friendship of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, but no where have I seen how close it was. Gabo had his own living quarters in Havana and appears often in this book. He surely knew of his friend’s double life.
Sanchez reminds the reader of Castro’s influence world-wide. While he has had mixed success with his international interference he is celebrated in communist countries, dictatorships and countries in rebellion. Sanchez has some interesting observations and anecdotes on traveling with Castro.
Following his incarceration (and torture) for wanting to retire early (although he doesn’t connect it, it could be his son and daughter’s defections or Castro’s paranoia following the Ochoa affair), Sanchez’s defection took 12 years. He was closely followed and foiled by his need to be successful and discrete, the weather and other circumstances. His security training served him well in his escape.
I expect that a lot here is not just new to me, but truly new. The book is full of information. While it is written in a conversational voice, there are few spare words. Besides the light shown on Castro, you also learn Sanchez's remarkable story.
December 6, 2025
Juan Reinaldo Sánchez spent seventeen years inside Fidel Castro’s inner security but fell out of favor, was imprissoned and finally able to escape to the US.
As an insider account the tale is gripping: the privileges of Castro's family, the absolute control of Fidel over every aspect of Cuba and the paranoia. All is there, but what else to expect from a country that once counted Russia, the DDR and North-Korea as its only friends.
There is quite an emotinal charge, perhaps understandable, but sometimes the book feels more as a personal vendetta than an analytical assesment of Castro's inner circle.
Whether every detail is fully reliable is debatable and perhaps we will never know, but the atmosphere he describes is deeply unsettling.
Read in Dutch
As an insider account the tale is gripping: the privileges of Castro's family, the absolute control of Fidel over every aspect of Cuba and the paranoia. All is there, but what else to expect from a country that once counted Russia, the DDR and North-Korea as its only friends.
There is quite an emotinal charge, perhaps understandable, but sometimes the book feels more as a personal vendetta than an analytical assesment of Castro's inner circle.
Whether every detail is fully reliable is debatable and perhaps we will never know, but the atmosphere he describes is deeply unsettling.
Read in Dutch
January 28, 2015
Gives a very nice insight into the indeed hidden life of Fidel Castro. Although most things are not very shocking (what does one expect from a dictator?), there are a lot of details that are very interesting to know.
A fascinating read.
A fascinating read.
November 10, 2015
Not entirely sure how I feel about this tell-all book from one of Fidel's personal security, allegedly as payback for falling out of favor and being imprisoned. Surely he had reasons to reveal secrets, to sell the book and likely stay on good terms with fellow Cubans in exile, but the material I found most interesting was about Fidel's family, of which I knew little. He is portrayed as distant and dismissive of most of his family and children, with Raul serving as surrogate father figure for many of Fidel's kids. Although Sanchez tries to emphasize the wealthy lifestyle, at times I thought it was really rather meager, and not unusual for most world leaders, especially one who knew the United States was constantly gunning for him. Yes, Fidel does not come off as friendly, and he had many affairs, but he also seems to have been loyal to some individuals. Sanchez does deliver a lot of insider tidbits that are new to most readers, I am sure. Fidel will soon be dead, and it will be interesting to see just what will follow. The book itself is OK, though quite repetitive, and maybe even a little too self serving (how many times do I need to know he was black belt and fantastic shot?).
October 16, 2025
"Si salgo, llego; si llego, entro; si entro, triunfo"
La historia la escriben los vencedores, frase que en ocasiones he visto atribuida desde George Orwell hasta Winston Churchill, pero quién la dijo no es lo importante, lo que vale es lo verídico de la frase, y por más trillada que esté, no deja de ser una verdad absoluta… pero siempre hay otras historias detrás, tantas como personas involucradas, que tienen su propia percepción de lo ocurrido: los que pierden, y los que observan callados. ¿Y la verdad? Se encuentra en algún lugar entre una cosa y la otra, imposible de definir.
Mi asignatura favorita en la escuela siempre fue Historia de Cuba, desde pequeña era lo que más se asemejaba a mi pasión por el chisme los cuentos. Lo que más estimulaba mi creatividad e imaginación era reproducir estas historias en mi mente, admiraba a esos hombres que eran capaces de arriesgar sus vidas por algo mayor que ellos, un ideal: Antonio Maceo, el Titán de Bronce, hombre intransigente, o Julio Antonio Mella, líder estudiantil capaz de enfrentarse de tú a tú a un dictador, y por supuesto, el Líder Histórico Fidel Castro, capaz de liderar una Revolución, envidiada y admirada en el mundo entero.
Cuando uno va creciendo entiende que las cosas no siempre suceden como te las cuentan, y que los hechos, tanto como las personas no se miden en blancos y negros, sino que están llenos de matices. Crecer y darse cuenta que has vivido en una mentira, no es fácil, pero a mi me gustaba más mis fantasías infantiles de David venciendo a Goliath. Mi pequeña islita solidaria y socialista resistiendo los embates de un país agresivo y capitalista.
No nos vamos a engañar, Cuba es una réplica mal hecha de la Unión Soviética, tal pareciera que George Orwell estuviera referenciando proféticamente la Revolución Cubana en 1984 (el libro fue escrito en 1945 y la Revolución triunfó en 1959) o que los libros que he leído sobre la época más convulsa de la URSS, ante el inminente derrumbe del campo socialista estuvieran escritos por un cubano de estos tiempos. Y si es una copia, una burda copia , entonces ¿por qué se cayó el campo socialista soviético y la Revolución Cubana sigue en pie? Pues muy fácil, por ÉL, que aún a casi 10 años de su muerte, sigue siendo venerado y querido por millones de personas en el mundo.
Que figura tan extraordinaria es Fidel, logró mantener un país entero bajo su manto con su labia infinita y poder de convencimiento superior. Incluso sus más acérrimos detractores tienen que reconocer la grandeza de su persona, es imposible negarlo. Supo convertir la isla en un paraíso perfecto, donde el control y las limitaciones del pueblo eran inversamente proporcionales a su estilo de vida. Poco se sabía de su vida privada, la cual sabía muy bien llevar en el máximo secreto, aunque este libro arroja un poco de luz a sus costumbres y manías.
Contrariamente a lo que siempre ha dicho, Fidel no ha renunciado en modo alguno al confort capitalista ni ha optado por vivir en la austeridad. Al revés, su modo de vida se asemeja al de un capitalista sin limitaciones de ninguna clase. Jamás ha considerado que sus discursos sobre el modo de vida austero propio de todo buen revolucionario fueran vinculantes en lo tocante a su persona.
Escrito por Juan Reinaldo Sánchez, persona increíblemente cercana al Comandante, y guardaespaldas suyo por muchísimos años, el autor nos adentra un poco en la vida de Fidel, el hombre, para que podamos entender un poquito más lo que existía detrás de la fachada de deidad intocable y correcta que ocultaba un hombre prepotente e inseguro: resulta absolutamente imposible contradecirlo en lo que sea. Tratar de convencerlo de que se equivoca, de que yerra el camino o de que cabría modificar, siquiera ligeramente, alguno de sus proyectos aportando una mejora constituye un error fatal para el que lo comete. A partir de ese momento, Fidel deja de ver en su interlocutor a una persona inteligente. Lo mejor para vivir a su lado es aceptar todo lo que dice y emprende.
Cabe destacar que el autor no es escritor, en cuanto a prosa, se torna por momentos repetitivos, y hay ideas que se quedan a medias sin concretar el punto, tampoco cuenta demasiadas cosas escandalosas, que no fuera uno capaz de imaginar, pero fue una lectura interesante, que lejos de otra cosa, lo que consiguió fue dejarme con deseos de saber más del Comandante.
La historia la escriben los vencedores, frase que en ocasiones he visto atribuida desde George Orwell hasta Winston Churchill, pero quién la dijo no es lo importante, lo que vale es lo verídico de la frase, y por más trillada que esté, no deja de ser una verdad absoluta… pero siempre hay otras historias detrás, tantas como personas involucradas, que tienen su propia percepción de lo ocurrido: los que pierden, y los que observan callados. ¿Y la verdad? Se encuentra en algún lugar entre una cosa y la otra, imposible de definir.
Mi asignatura favorita en la escuela siempre fue Historia de Cuba, desde pequeña era lo que más se asemejaba a mi pasión por
Cuando uno va creciendo entiende que las cosas no siempre suceden como te las cuentan, y que los hechos, tanto como las personas no se miden en blancos y negros, sino que están llenos de matices. Crecer y darse cuenta que has vivido en una mentira, no es fácil, pero a mi me gustaba más mis fantasías infantiles de David venciendo a Goliath. Mi pequeña islita solidaria y socialista resistiendo los embates de un país agresivo y capitalista.
No nos vamos a engañar, Cuba es una réplica
Que figura tan extraordinaria es Fidel, logró mantener un país entero bajo su manto con su labia infinita y poder de convencimiento superior. Incluso sus más acérrimos detractores tienen que reconocer la grandeza de su persona, es imposible negarlo. Supo convertir la isla en un paraíso perfecto, donde el control y las limitaciones del pueblo eran inversamente proporcionales a su estilo de vida. Poco se sabía de su vida privada, la cual sabía muy bien llevar en el máximo secreto, aunque este libro arroja un poco de luz a sus costumbres y manías.
Contrariamente a lo que siempre ha dicho, Fidel no ha renunciado en modo alguno al confort capitalista ni ha optado por vivir en la austeridad. Al revés, su modo de vida se asemeja al de un capitalista sin limitaciones de ninguna clase. Jamás ha considerado que sus discursos sobre el modo de vida austero propio de todo buen revolucionario fueran vinculantes en lo tocante a su persona.
Escrito por Juan Reinaldo Sánchez, persona increíblemente cercana al Comandante, y guardaespaldas suyo por muchísimos años, el autor nos adentra un poco en la vida de Fidel, el hombre, para que podamos entender un poquito más lo que existía detrás de la fachada de deidad intocable y correcta que ocultaba un hombre prepotente e inseguro: resulta absolutamente imposible contradecirlo en lo que sea. Tratar de convencerlo de que se equivoca, de que yerra el camino o de que cabría modificar, siquiera ligeramente, alguno de sus proyectos aportando una mejora constituye un error fatal para el que lo comete. A partir de ese momento, Fidel deja de ver en su interlocutor a una persona inteligente. Lo mejor para vivir a su lado es aceptar todo lo que dice y emprende.
Cabe destacar que el autor no es escritor, en cuanto a prosa, se torna por momentos repetitivos, y hay ideas que se quedan a medias sin concretar el punto, tampoco cuenta demasiadas cosas escandalosas, que no fuera uno capaz de imaginar, pero fue una lectura interesante, que lejos de otra cosa, lo que consiguió fue dejarme con deseos de saber más del Comandante.
March 10, 2016
I was amazed at the levels of sophistication of the Cuban security apparatus. Moreso, I was appalled at the callousness of Fidal Castro and his total ingratitude to those who served him so faithfully. This book gave me an insight into his state of mind that was light years away from the carefully crafted public image I had of him. The author of the book was one bad mutha shut your mouth. He gets my respect for the level of training he got, for having the courage to endure an arduous journey, and for telling the truth about such a despotic regime. This book is a must read.
May 6, 2018
Autorul e un fel de Pacepa cubanez, care l-a slujit aproape două decenii pe dictator. Bodyguardul lui Fidel Castro a căzut în dizgrație, după ce fiică-sa, frate-său "au ales libertatea", așa că și-a pierdut și el job-ul și-a ajuns la pușcărie. De-acolo, prin tehnici de disimulare, s-a prefăcut cumințit pentru ca, odată eliberat, s-o taie la fugă în State.
Cartea prezintă opulența fără limite a tovarășului Fidel, ascunsă de ochii poporului nevoiaș. Ies în evidență insula secretă, vila, piscina și toate utilitățile situate la îndemînă, inclusiv pasiunea dictatorului pentru pescuitul subacvatic în mare.
Autorul Sanchez, ajuns în lumea liberă, își scrie amintirile, încercînd să-i plătească polițe iritate fostului său patron. Dar printre rînduri i se întrevede ambiguitea funciară, iar supărarea sa e brăzdată de o tainică admirație pentru lipsa de scrupule și determinarea cinică, în delincvență, a lui Fidel Castro.
Cartea prezintă opulența fără limite a tovarășului Fidel, ascunsă de ochii poporului nevoiaș. Ies în evidență insula secretă, vila, piscina și toate utilitățile situate la îndemînă, inclusiv pasiunea dictatorului pentru pescuitul subacvatic în mare.
Autorul Sanchez, ajuns în lumea liberă, își scrie amintirile, încercînd să-i plătească polițe iritate fostului său patron. Dar printre rînduri i se întrevede ambiguitea funciară, iar supărarea sa e brăzdată de o tainică admirație pentru lipsa de scrupule și determinarea cinică, în delincvență, a lui Fidel Castro.
January 10, 2023
2.5
The content is somehow intriguing and you learn a lot about the family life of the Castros, but other than that no ground breaking insights or something you wouldn’t expect. But it is still interesting to hear it from a somewhat reliable source. It is lacking structure and therefore feels repeating. The author is quite proud of his skills and you definitely feel that while reading the book. I cannot count how often I had to read that he has a black belt in several martial arts and is/was one of the best shooters and won competitions…
So if you are interested in fidel and mostly the author, go for it otherwise I wouldn’t recommend it.
The content is somehow intriguing and you learn a lot about the family life of the Castros, but other than that no ground breaking insights or something you wouldn’t expect. But it is still interesting to hear it from a somewhat reliable source. It is lacking structure and therefore feels repeating. The author is quite proud of his skills and you definitely feel that while reading the book. I cannot count how often I had to read that he has a black belt in several martial arts and is/was one of the best shooters and won competitions…
So if you are interested in fidel and mostly the author, go for it otherwise I wouldn’t recommend it.
July 8, 2016
Cautivador
Este libro te da una idea clara de la verdadera cara de Fidel Castro. Sabía que es un hombre despiadado y calculador, más sin embargo comprobarlo y en cierta forma vivir a través de Juan Reinaldo Sánchez los crimenes de Fidel Castro , Raúl Castro y sus secuaces no tiene precio. Lo recomiendo es más debería ser lectura obligada a todos aquellos que simpatizen con este tipo de gobierno.
Este libro te da una idea clara de la verdadera cara de Fidel Castro. Sabía que es un hombre despiadado y calculador, más sin embargo comprobarlo y en cierta forma vivir a través de Juan Reinaldo Sánchez los crimenes de Fidel Castro , Raúl Castro y sus secuaces no tiene precio. Lo recomiendo es más debería ser lectura obligada a todos aquellos que simpatizen con este tipo de gobierno.
December 18, 2016
Thank you for having courage!
Thank you for writing this book. Thank you for telling the truth. Thank you for having courage. And, thank you for being a symbol of freedom.
Thank you for writing this book. Thank you for telling the truth. Thank you for having courage. And, thank you for being a symbol of freedom.
February 17, 2018
Great book
I highly recommend this book.
Reginaldo Sanchez, show a totally different perspective of the dictator Fidel Castro's life.
An incredible adventure
I highly recommend this book.
Reginaldo Sanchez, show a totally different perspective of the dictator Fidel Castro's life.
An incredible adventure
October 16, 2019
Awesome book
This got me an insight of the suffering of the Cuban people and how power corrupt all the noble ideals
This got me an insight of the suffering of the Cuban people and how power corrupt all the noble ideals
March 22, 2023
Apenas recomendo este livro para quem já esteja verdadeiramente interessado na vida desta figura histórica. Muitas das informações contidas no livro não iram apelar a maioria dos leitores,mas por outro lado também possui detalhes interessantes que despertam a curiosidade da maioria especialmente as partes que se referem a sua vida fora da política.
No geral um bom livro mas não para todos .
No geral um bom livro mas não para todos .
October 4, 2019
At this writing the US is governed by a self-indulgent, over-privileged oligarch with a fraction of Castro's common sense, and calls it "democracy." So understand why I can't gasp in horror at these "revelations" of communist perfidy like so many here (perhaps voters for America's Fidel).
For the most part Sanchez' account has the ring of authenticity, writing of what he saw and experienced at El Commandante's side for nearly two decades. Tell-all books about Fidel have been on the market since 1959. This is just one in the long pedigree of Castrology, yet will find its place in the repertoire. The exacting task of trying to get into the Top Leader's head hasn't changed and the portrait has been always the same: a furiously ambitious political entrepreneur who knows how to play the games of war and politics, and always keeps his cards close to his beard.
Thus there's little really new here - even down to details on his personal yacht and island. Like all "new class" leaders of nationalized economies, Fidel enjoyed a private life out of keeping with his professed values, as did his "revolutionary family" - although rather tame compared to the conspicuous indulgence of free-market oligarchs. Castro's critics thus find themselves on the side of old-line Cuban Communists who originally saw Fidel as a "bourgeois opportunist." How nice of them to pay homage to ideals of socialism in Cuba while trying to liquidate them elsewhere!
Yet parts of this story don't quite hang together. The accusation of Castro's drug dealing originated as a smoke and mirrors deflection of Ollie North's crack-and-contras scheme. This was the true source of destabilization of American society in the 1980s. The Cuban allegations remain conjecture, other than the charges against Ochoa and the de la Guardias. After three decades no hard evidence has been produced to substantiate Fidel's drug-running - even he's not clever enough to hide all such traces if he were really a "kingpin." It's the same anecdotal and unsubstantiated stuff Sanchez presents, and serves as the book's breathless back-cover blurb: an overheard conversation about a Miami smuggler wanting a back-home visit and how to give him an intelligence cover story. From this the author leaps to the conclusion that, "very simply, a huge drug trafficking transaction was being carried out at the highest echelons of the state" (p. 230). Sorry, that kind of testimony doesn't match the charge, and it shows the fundamental weakness of these anecdotal tell-all stories - believe me because I say so and you can't say different. (If North had been sentenced like Ochoa he wouldn't be a lingering gadfly hero. The political threat of a uniformed martyr likely explains Ochoa's termination with prejudice).
Even after his shock, and the Ochoa-de la Guardia affair, Sanchez tells us he "was more than ever devoted to serving Fidel" (p. 245). If so, why did he want to retire? This raises another doubtful aspect in his story. Did he really think he could just go back to civilian life after "seeing the king naked?" (Or at least drunk in his pyjamas performing a Marx Bros. routine with a hotel mirror?) His prosecution and imprisonment were not justified, but surely after his intimate contact with Fidel and the Cuban system he knew better: you never walk out on the Godfather. As he writes, he was constantly under surveillance even without accepting that job at the Interior Ministry, so why put himself through the extra agony? Perhaps he was already wanting to leave Cuba altogether at the time of request - we'll never know, because the conveniently-deceased Sanchez isn't nearly as forthcoming about himself as his former Lider Maximo.
Other loose ends abound. The statement of Castro running the island as his private plantation isn't new - as noted by French journalists even in the 1960s. Axel Gylden had good sources for coaching his subject. The translator used the Yiddish word "schlep" - really? This makes the revelations of an insular Cuban like Sanchez more believable? Perhaps he picked it up on Miami Beach. Sanchez also calls contract labor "a modern variant on slavery" (p. 195). Sorry, but "free societies" have temp services, B2 visas, and other third party providers who rip off employees with as much impunity as totalitarian Cuba. Every private security company I've heard of stands in violation of the UN's ILO. As for his mistreatment in prison - morally unacceptable, but still not comparable to the death squad regimes elsewhere in Latin America. Sanchez did not "disappear," or emerge in a dump with missing body parts or signs of electric torture. He survived to enjoy a favored exile in a great new home. Lucky for him it was before the current US Leader's new ICE policy!
Read with caution, it's not a bad book - just don't expect anything too shattering, or what you couldn't have surmised anyway. Entertaining in parts, but it seems more a cover story for its author's integration into American life than a full treatise on Fidel Castro or his relationship thereto. Unfortunately Sanchez has since died of a "lung infection." Perhaps an outcome of his prison experience; maybe Raul Castro's revenge. In the world of tell-all, you reveal only what's convenient.
For the most part Sanchez' account has the ring of authenticity, writing of what he saw and experienced at El Commandante's side for nearly two decades. Tell-all books about Fidel have been on the market since 1959. This is just one in the long pedigree of Castrology, yet will find its place in the repertoire. The exacting task of trying to get into the Top Leader's head hasn't changed and the portrait has been always the same: a furiously ambitious political entrepreneur who knows how to play the games of war and politics, and always keeps his cards close to his beard.
Thus there's little really new here - even down to details on his personal yacht and island. Like all "new class" leaders of nationalized economies, Fidel enjoyed a private life out of keeping with his professed values, as did his "revolutionary family" - although rather tame compared to the conspicuous indulgence of free-market oligarchs. Castro's critics thus find themselves on the side of old-line Cuban Communists who originally saw Fidel as a "bourgeois opportunist." How nice of them to pay homage to ideals of socialism in Cuba while trying to liquidate them elsewhere!
Yet parts of this story don't quite hang together. The accusation of Castro's drug dealing originated as a smoke and mirrors deflection of Ollie North's crack-and-contras scheme. This was the true source of destabilization of American society in the 1980s. The Cuban allegations remain conjecture, other than the charges against Ochoa and the de la Guardias. After three decades no hard evidence has been produced to substantiate Fidel's drug-running - even he's not clever enough to hide all such traces if he were really a "kingpin." It's the same anecdotal and unsubstantiated stuff Sanchez presents, and serves as the book's breathless back-cover blurb: an overheard conversation about a Miami smuggler wanting a back-home visit and how to give him an intelligence cover story. From this the author leaps to the conclusion that, "very simply, a huge drug trafficking transaction was being carried out at the highest echelons of the state" (p. 230). Sorry, that kind of testimony doesn't match the charge, and it shows the fundamental weakness of these anecdotal tell-all stories - believe me because I say so and you can't say different. (If North had been sentenced like Ochoa he wouldn't be a lingering gadfly hero. The political threat of a uniformed martyr likely explains Ochoa's termination with prejudice).
Even after his shock, and the Ochoa-de la Guardia affair, Sanchez tells us he "was more than ever devoted to serving Fidel" (p. 245). If so, why did he want to retire? This raises another doubtful aspect in his story. Did he really think he could just go back to civilian life after "seeing the king naked?" (Or at least drunk in his pyjamas performing a Marx Bros. routine with a hotel mirror?) His prosecution and imprisonment were not justified, but surely after his intimate contact with Fidel and the Cuban system he knew better: you never walk out on the Godfather. As he writes, he was constantly under surveillance even without accepting that job at the Interior Ministry, so why put himself through the extra agony? Perhaps he was already wanting to leave Cuba altogether at the time of request - we'll never know, because the conveniently-deceased Sanchez isn't nearly as forthcoming about himself as his former Lider Maximo.
Other loose ends abound. The statement of Castro running the island as his private plantation isn't new - as noted by French journalists even in the 1960s. Axel Gylden had good sources for coaching his subject. The translator used the Yiddish word "schlep" - really? This makes the revelations of an insular Cuban like Sanchez more believable? Perhaps he picked it up on Miami Beach. Sanchez also calls contract labor "a modern variant on slavery" (p. 195). Sorry, but "free societies" have temp services, B2 visas, and other third party providers who rip off employees with as much impunity as totalitarian Cuba. Every private security company I've heard of stands in violation of the UN's ILO. As for his mistreatment in prison - morally unacceptable, but still not comparable to the death squad regimes elsewhere in Latin America. Sanchez did not "disappear," or emerge in a dump with missing body parts or signs of electric torture. He survived to enjoy a favored exile in a great new home. Lucky for him it was before the current US Leader's new ICE policy!
Read with caution, it's not a bad book - just don't expect anything too shattering, or what you couldn't have surmised anyway. Entertaining in parts, but it seems more a cover story for its author's integration into American life than a full treatise on Fidel Castro or his relationship thereto. Unfortunately Sanchez has since died of a "lung infection." Perhaps an outcome of his prison experience; maybe Raul Castro's revenge. In the world of tell-all, you reveal only what's convenient.
December 2, 2016
I like the view of Fidel Castro this account provides. This is the middle ground if I may say, it doesn't demonize him as the West would or adulate him as a Casterist would.
Castro is a dictator and like all dictators who are just adults bullies, he has a God complex, superiority complex and a paranoid mind. He doesn't like to lose, doesn't like to relinquish power, he doesn't listen to other opinions. It was also good to see that all the Marxism and Communism that he preached was just all noise signifying nothing. He lived a flamboyant and indulging life so what happened to all he preached.
He was a terrible father and womanizer. At the other spectrum he was a cautious, smart, intelligent, obsessive personality. He had a big dream for South America and he struggled to achieve it.
I like the psychological profile the book provide on Fidel, Raul and other players. It is good to see what motivates people to be who they become.
The guard had a falling out with the system and decided to write this book out of vendetta. But it is a good read and it just X-rays how these strong leaders always think they are messiahs.
An enjoyable read.
Castro is a dictator and like all dictators who are just adults bullies, he has a God complex, superiority complex and a paranoid mind. He doesn't like to lose, doesn't like to relinquish power, he doesn't listen to other opinions. It was also good to see that all the Marxism and Communism that he preached was just all noise signifying nothing. He lived a flamboyant and indulging life so what happened to all he preached.
He was a terrible father and womanizer. At the other spectrum he was a cautious, smart, intelligent, obsessive personality. He had a big dream for South America and he struggled to achieve it.
I like the psychological profile the book provide on Fidel, Raul and other players. It is good to see what motivates people to be who they become.
The guard had a falling out with the system and decided to write this book out of vendetta. But it is a good read and it just X-rays how these strong leaders always think they are messiahs.
An enjoyable read.
June 16, 2021
There’s no reason to doubt any of the information coming from this source. It might be difficult to some since no one has ever dared to come forth for “obvious” reasons. I’m Cuban, born and raised and even though some of the stories reflected here were already rumors, we never New them as facts, until now. I think EVERYONE, not only Cubans should read this book to once and for all realize the brutality of that regimen and the lies the Castros have been telling the world for decades. It is very sad, Sanchez is dead now, although it doesn’t surprise me, it’s my opinion they ultimately got to him. He said it, they are everywhere and have all the resources and capabilities to end your life wherever and whenever they feel like it. He is a hero in my eyes, it took a lot of courage to write such an intimate and delicate book. He risked and ultimately might have lost his life for it.
September 28, 2016
This is a very interesting book about the inner life of Cuban Lider Fidel Castro. It is written by one of the Fidel's former bodyguards, who has now defected to the US. It covers a period from the late 1960s through early 1990s and is very detailed.
For anyone who has ever been to or has been interested in Cuba, this opens your eyes to the true Fidel Castro. It pulls back the curtain on what has been a fairly secret regime. It contains some shocking moments that even the most ardent Cuban supporter would be surprised at.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to see the inner workings of Cuba and namely Fidel Castro. As it is a first person account, it cannot be verified, which means the Castros could easily deny it. But either way it makes for a fascinating read.
For anyone who has ever been to or has been interested in Cuba, this opens your eyes to the true Fidel Castro. It pulls back the curtain on what has been a fairly secret regime. It contains some shocking moments that even the most ardent Cuban supporter would be surprised at.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to see the inner workings of Cuba and namely Fidel Castro. As it is a first person account, it cannot be verified, which means the Castros could easily deny it. But either way it makes for a fascinating read.
July 22, 2021
Smutná, ale dobře čtivá kniha o tajemstvích kubánského tyrana. Řada věcí v ní zní neuvěřitelně, ale v době dnešních technologií ověřitelně. Tak si můžeme tajný ostrov Fidela Castra najít neoznačený na Google Mapách a u družicových fotosnímků prohlížet jeho budovy a bazén. Na Youtube si můžeme poslechnout pověstný telefonický rozhovor Fidela s mexickým prezidentem, ve kterém ho přechytračil a hned vedle si na Youtube můžeme pustit záběry zinscenovaného procesu s kubánských národním hrdinou generálem Arnaldem Tomásem Ochoou Sánchezem, kterého dal Fidel popravit, aby se neukázalo Fidelovo zapojení do kšeftování s drogami. A mnoho dalšího. Čte se dobře a rychle. Ale smutně.
👉Pokud chcete pochopit Kubu, je to vedle Castrova životopisu od I. Ramoneta a Stručné historie Kuby od J. Opatrného povinné čtení.👈
👉Pokud chcete pochopit Kubu, je to vedle Castrova životopisu od I. Ramoneta a Stručné historie Kuby od J. Opatrného povinné čtení.👈
April 2, 2019
This was a fascinating book written by Fidel Castro's personal bodyguard of 17 years Juan Reinaldo Sanchez. The insights into Castro's personality and the way the Cuban regime works was eye opening. It is written in a very engaging way by Sanchez' writing helper Axel Gylden, with interesting stories about Castro and and Sanchez' experiences and fascinating details about Castro's daily life.
Despite Castro's assertion that he lived austerely, this book shows just how big the disconnect was between Castro's life and that of typical Cubans. It was a quick read and hard to put down.
Despite Castro's assertion that he lived austerely, this book shows just how big the disconnect was between Castro's life and that of typical Cubans. It was a quick read and hard to put down.
September 14, 2021
Wow, what a tale! Mr. Sanchez was a former devout Cuban Revolutionary and served as Fidel Castro’s elite-level bodyguard for 17 years. Eventually arrested and tortured, he luckily escaped to Miami and wrote about his experience. This book is an authentic window into Castro as well as how his regime impacted Cuba.
There are many great side stories throughout! Castro secretly ran a drug cartel, Muammar Ghadaffi stared the author down in an attempt to intimidate him (also his all female “Amazon women” bodyguards were there), Castro had a string of mistresses and a private pleasure island, when in North Korea, Sanchez was under surveillance to an alarming degree, and Castro played an influential role as a military commander in the Angolan War. Castro also ran a top-notch guerrilla/espionage/terrorist training facility in Cuba which trained revolutionaries worldwide from Palestine to Nicaragua. After reading this book I admit to have underestimated the huge influence Castro has in Latin America and beyond. He is anti-American and anti-imperialist to the core and views the whole world as a chessboard.
Finally, the author paints Castro as overrated, an egomaniac, and, while his influence around the world is huge, his policies have not been good for Cuba. It is a fascinating history to explore and this book gives you a front row seat.
There are many great side stories throughout! Castro secretly ran a drug cartel, Muammar Ghadaffi stared the author down in an attempt to intimidate him (also his all female “Amazon women” bodyguards were there), Castro had a string of mistresses and a private pleasure island, when in North Korea, Sanchez was under surveillance to an alarming degree, and Castro played an influential role as a military commander in the Angolan War. Castro also ran a top-notch guerrilla/espionage/terrorist training facility in Cuba which trained revolutionaries worldwide from Palestine to Nicaragua. After reading this book I admit to have underestimated the huge influence Castro has in Latin America and beyond. He is anti-American and anti-imperialist to the core and views the whole world as a chessboard.
Finally, the author paints Castro as overrated, an egomaniac, and, while his influence around the world is huge, his policies have not been good for Cuba. It is a fascinating history to explore and this book gives you a front row seat.
August 30, 2025
The book is well written, easy and enjoyable to read. However, the stories are not detailed and a bit of gaps in the story timeline. Its a good book to get a superficial info about Cuban regime and Fidel.
June 19, 2021
Overhyped by the author. It was interesting but it was supposed to be this “revenge book” by Castro’s right hand man who was wronged. Either the author left out a shitload of detail, or Castro was nothing but a corrupt politician. Slightly disappointed, it kind of read like a history book rather than memoir from an inside man.
June 15, 2021
This was a great book in more ways than one. This book, written by Juan Reynaldo Sanches, a former Fidel Castro's "inner ring" of security is an amazing inside look at lies of Fidel's life and lifestyle.
Just as every dictator before him, Fidel's incognito Capitalist lifestyle was at odds with the rhetoric he spewed. This is nothing new. You do not need to go to Cuba to see the lies of this Socialism and Communism rhetoric. Right here in the U.S. You had Bernie Sanders that would constantly pontificate about "Millionaires and Billionaires". Ironically, his rhetoric changed when it came out that he owned multiple million dollar homes, made millions on his book and drove expensive cars. Highly different than the austere life style he preaches about. Also we see people like the "Trained Marxist" Patrice Khan-Cullors who constantly ranted about the rich 1% and the evils of Capitalism until she spent millions of dollars buy 4 homes for herself with the proceeds of her "organization". There are countless examples of those who talk the talk, but do not walk the walk. You constantly see these spoiled kids studying in their Ivy League schools paid by their parents that have sacrificed themselves to put their kids through college, sipping their Starbucks, wearing their Birkenstocks, driving their BMWs all the while complaining about Capitalism. Anyone who tells you that Capitalism is not the best system in the world, you are either dump or complicit.
Fidel lived the life of a Capitalist billionaire. He had people waiting on him hand and foot, had multiple homes throughout the island, billions of dollars in offshore accounts, and was a narcissist evil man. No one, including his family were safe from his brutality. I personally have family and friends of the family that disappeared during the "revolution" never to be seen or heard of again. My father left the island when Fidel took power leaving behind several properties seized by the government, money and my mother and two sisters. He came to the U.S. when there were signs saying "No Cubans" similar to how Blacks were treated. He worked three jobs to claim my mother and sisters as well as other family members. They came in legal and worked hard. They lived in New Jersey, were it was cold and miserable. They left possessions, family and friends behind to flee this disgusting tyrant. I think this is why I oppose Socialism and Communism so much. Seeing what it did to me family here and worse what they did to my family there make we privy to a lot of information the talking heads today conveniently leave out. Socialism and Communism is a cancer wherever it is tried.
The book gives you the inside scoop on the methods and procedures Fidel used and how he funded and orchestrated those "regime changes" that our very intelligent Congresswoman Alexandria Ocassio Cortez loves to blame on the U.S. He was also a gun and drug smuggler. He had his closes people killed because they "knew too much". Thankfully he died. Sadly, he lasted a very long time and with it, made the poor people of Cuba and the oppressive Human Rights violation which the media does not report on, suffer and still do. I would ask anyone that feels that this "revolution" he created is a good thing, go to Cuba. Not as a visitor with money. Go live as the Cubans do. Make use of their "free healthcare" and "free schooling". Doctors in Cuba make more money working a side hustle than being a doctor. There you get to go to college for free however you do not study "gender studies" or some other useless major. You study what the government tells you to study. You are not free at all. Ironically, those that love to criticize this country would be shot and killed for voicing their opinion in a Socialist or Communist country.
Just as every dictator before him, Fidel's incognito Capitalist lifestyle was at odds with the rhetoric he spewed. This is nothing new. You do not need to go to Cuba to see the lies of this Socialism and Communism rhetoric. Right here in the U.S. You had Bernie Sanders that would constantly pontificate about "Millionaires and Billionaires". Ironically, his rhetoric changed when it came out that he owned multiple million dollar homes, made millions on his book and drove expensive cars. Highly different than the austere life style he preaches about. Also we see people like the "Trained Marxist" Patrice Khan-Cullors who constantly ranted about the rich 1% and the evils of Capitalism until she spent millions of dollars buy 4 homes for herself with the proceeds of her "organization". There are countless examples of those who talk the talk, but do not walk the walk. You constantly see these spoiled kids studying in their Ivy League schools paid by their parents that have sacrificed themselves to put their kids through college, sipping their Starbucks, wearing their Birkenstocks, driving their BMWs all the while complaining about Capitalism. Anyone who tells you that Capitalism is not the best system in the world, you are either dump or complicit.
Fidel lived the life of a Capitalist billionaire. He had people waiting on him hand and foot, had multiple homes throughout the island, billions of dollars in offshore accounts, and was a narcissist evil man. No one, including his family were safe from his brutality. I personally have family and friends of the family that disappeared during the "revolution" never to be seen or heard of again. My father left the island when Fidel took power leaving behind several properties seized by the government, money and my mother and two sisters. He came to the U.S. when there were signs saying "No Cubans" similar to how Blacks were treated. He worked three jobs to claim my mother and sisters as well as other family members. They came in legal and worked hard. They lived in New Jersey, were it was cold and miserable. They left possessions, family and friends behind to flee this disgusting tyrant. I think this is why I oppose Socialism and Communism so much. Seeing what it did to me family here and worse what they did to my family there make we privy to a lot of information the talking heads today conveniently leave out. Socialism and Communism is a cancer wherever it is tried.
The book gives you the inside scoop on the methods and procedures Fidel used and how he funded and orchestrated those "regime changes" that our very intelligent Congresswoman Alexandria Ocassio Cortez loves to blame on the U.S. He was also a gun and drug smuggler. He had his closes people killed because they "knew too much". Thankfully he died. Sadly, he lasted a very long time and with it, made the poor people of Cuba and the oppressive Human Rights violation which the media does not report on, suffer and still do. I would ask anyone that feels that this "revolution" he created is a good thing, go to Cuba. Not as a visitor with money. Go live as the Cubans do. Make use of their "free healthcare" and "free schooling". Doctors in Cuba make more money working a side hustle than being a doctor. There you get to go to college for free however you do not study "gender studies" or some other useless major. You study what the government tells you to study. You are not free at all. Ironically, those that love to criticize this country would be shot and killed for voicing their opinion in a Socialist or Communist country.
May 14, 2015
From http://weeksnotice.blogspot.com/2015/...
I read Juan Reinaldo Sanchez's The Double Life of Fidel Castro: My 17 Years As Personal Bodyguard to El Líder Máximo (2015), which has been translated from the original Spanish (it was published in France). Coming from someone who was very close to Fidel, it provides a look into his personal life. As such, it's an entertaining and informative glimpse into Fidel's inner circle.
I kept thinking "L'état, c'est moi," in the sense that there is no line between his resources and the state treasury. He found a nice island, then ordered a massive amount of work to be done so he could travel there by helicopter, have people direct him to the fish, then help him catch them. He created a cow pasture in a building so he could do experiments to breed the best milk-producer. Is it crazy or extravagant? Either way, he did whatever he wanted, no matter the cost.
It can veer toward the gossipy. I'm not particularly interested in how Fidel juggled various women, for example. At the same time, it is interested to think about why his numerous children were not groomed for politics. Some of the gossip is funny, as when Sánchez walked around a North Korean hotel with a drunken Fidel trying to find him a softer mattress.
Sánchez seems to contradict the idea that the KGB built the Cuban intelligence apparatus. Sánchez talks about all the new exercises and plans he personally made, but did Cuba's security become famous through Cuban efforts alone? He suggests this on p. 104, scoffing at the KGB as low quality and saying Cuba took its model from the U.S., Israel, France, and Great Britain. None of those countries, of course, would've done any training.
Sánchez says he started to feel disillusioned after overhearing a conversation in 1988 confirming that Fidel Castro was directing a cocaine operation in the United States. Not long after, Castro executed several top lieutenants (especially Arnaldo Ochoa) for participation in an operation he claimed to know nothing about. All that has been reported before many times before, but Sánchez provides an insider's view. He also claims that Ochoa's death pushed Raúl Castro to drink so heavily that his wife feared he might be suicidal, and that Sánchez overheard Fidel reassure his brother that he wouldn't suffer Ochoa's fate. Sánchez was imprisoned for two years and tortured when members of his family emigrated, which put him under suspicion. He finally managed to leave Cuba in 2008.
One final point, from a research perspective. According to Sánchez, Fidel Castro saved voluminous files, from his daily calendar to recordings he made in meetings and phone calls. Given how extensive they are, is it likely they will all be destroyed? If not, once there is a transition we'll be reading some more very interesting books.
I read Juan Reinaldo Sanchez's The Double Life of Fidel Castro: My 17 Years As Personal Bodyguard to El Líder Máximo (2015), which has been translated from the original Spanish (it was published in France). Coming from someone who was very close to Fidel, it provides a look into his personal life. As such, it's an entertaining and informative glimpse into Fidel's inner circle.
I kept thinking "L'état, c'est moi," in the sense that there is no line between his resources and the state treasury. He found a nice island, then ordered a massive amount of work to be done so he could travel there by helicopter, have people direct him to the fish, then help him catch them. He created a cow pasture in a building so he could do experiments to breed the best milk-producer. Is it crazy or extravagant? Either way, he did whatever he wanted, no matter the cost.
It can veer toward the gossipy. I'm not particularly interested in how Fidel juggled various women, for example. At the same time, it is interested to think about why his numerous children were not groomed for politics. Some of the gossip is funny, as when Sánchez walked around a North Korean hotel with a drunken Fidel trying to find him a softer mattress.
Sánchez seems to contradict the idea that the KGB built the Cuban intelligence apparatus. Sánchez talks about all the new exercises and plans he personally made, but did Cuba's security become famous through Cuban efforts alone? He suggests this on p. 104, scoffing at the KGB as low quality and saying Cuba took its model from the U.S., Israel, France, and Great Britain. None of those countries, of course, would've done any training.
Sánchez says he started to feel disillusioned after overhearing a conversation in 1988 confirming that Fidel Castro was directing a cocaine operation in the United States. Not long after, Castro executed several top lieutenants (especially Arnaldo Ochoa) for participation in an operation he claimed to know nothing about. All that has been reported before many times before, but Sánchez provides an insider's view. He also claims that Ochoa's death pushed Raúl Castro to drink so heavily that his wife feared he might be suicidal, and that Sánchez overheard Fidel reassure his brother that he wouldn't suffer Ochoa's fate. Sánchez was imprisoned for two years and tortured when members of his family emigrated, which put him under suspicion. He finally managed to leave Cuba in 2008.
One final point, from a research perspective. According to Sánchez, Fidel Castro saved voluminous files, from his daily calendar to recordings he made in meetings and phone calls. Given how extensive they are, is it likely they will all be destroyed? If not, once there is a transition we'll be reading some more very interesting books.
June 3, 2017
Sanchez' iconoclastic expose of Fidel Castro is disturbing at the least. The author was his bodyguard for 17 years and, as such, was a witness to a lifestyle that Castro's adoring fans would not believe possible. In 1959 and for years afterward, Fidel was viewed as the conqueror of corruption. But he turned out to be one more hedonistic dictator in a long line of similar Cuban leaders. While telling the Cuban people that he lived in a modest fishing hut, he was enjoying a lavish lifestyle on his own private island. He had other homes as well, and several paramours and children by at least 5 different women. It seems Fidel was not the self sacrificing idealist in combat fatigues that he portrayed himself to be. I'm glad I read this before going to Cuba. A real eye opener.
August 11, 2021
Great Book!
Real info from a real source in a world were we need direct info. To think and not eat every word of our leaders.
Many thanks Reinaldo! Long life!
Real info from a real source in a world were we need direct info. To think and not eat every word of our leaders.
Many thanks Reinaldo! Long life!
December 30, 2016
Excellent read and revealing view into the private life of one of the famous dictator. Shows the fallible nature of humanity - most of these insurgent guerrilla leaders eventually become the dictators they sought to overcome. Mr. Sanchez relates his story in a compelling and interesting way, leaving the reader wanting for more insight on the life of the dictator and key players in the Cuban communist government. Recommend this read to anyone interested in Latin American affairs or seeking to understand more about the perennially troubled region.
June 24, 2021
Really interesting to read. The Author, born in 1949, died a few years ago, before reaching 70 years of age, but at least had a few years with family in Florida before his death. It will be rare indeed to get such an insight into the life of Fidel Castro. And also, the life of a high ranking body guard (the author) Easy to read, I found, good story telling, and the author doesn't seem to have gone from one extreme to the other, as from total fan of Castro to total anti anything sounding remotely like communism; his questions and assessments seem all measured. I liked the book a lot.
June 15, 2015
Melinda, Village patron, June 2015, 5 stars:
The book is an inside to the life of Fidel in family that he was married twice & he has 7 sons plus a daughter & the connections he had in south America politics ministers & his nice hideaway on island he had couple yachts connection to Russia Angola in Africa his part in Nicarugua war of Daniel Ortega a very up close look into his family & political life.
The book is an inside to the life of Fidel in family that he was married twice & he has 7 sons plus a daughter & the connections he had in south America politics ministers & his nice hideaway on island he had couple yachts connection to Russia Angola in Africa his part in Nicarugua war of Daniel Ortega a very up close look into his family & political life.
July 31, 2018
Fidel Castro is one of many historical figures that I find fascinating, yet I am on my second attempt to finish this book and will probably not do so. I think this book just gets too granular for me, it can't seem to hold my attention.
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