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Ryszard Kapuściński: A Life reviewed by The Economist

Rebecca Nathanson 2 July 2012

In its latest issue, The Economist calls Ryszard Kapuściński: A Life, Artur Domosławski's definitive biography of one of the most influential journalists of the twentieth century, both "compelling and controversial." The review also praises Antonia Lloyd-Jones' translation, saying that it "makes the sweep and tone of Mr. Domosławski's Polish readable, without sacrificing its curious, to English eyes, use of the present tense and rhetorical questions."

The review touches on one of the key aspects of the book: Kapuściński's disregard for the line between fact and fiction, both in his work and in his personal life. "He was also slippery about his own beliefs, careless with facts, a loyal servant of a totalitarian regime, and cruel to those who loved him," writes The Economist.

The Economist also includes an extended audio interview with the magazine's eastern European correspondent, who praises the biography and analyzes the criticisms, such as embellishing—or inventing—facts, that have plagued Kapuściński's work for years.

Visit The Economist to listen to the interview and read the review in full.

Filed under: reviews