All the Worst Humans
How I Made News for Dictators, Tycoons, and Politicians
by Phil Elwood
I had many conflicting feelings when I read this book. First there was horror and disbelief as Phil Elwood told story after story of working with the eponymous “worst humans” (not an exaggeration, think Muammar Gaddafi), but also an unhealthy fascination — people employed by dictators and foreign governments don’t often share such details with the wider public. Then there was compassion, as I read about the impact this crazy job had on the author, leaving him with PTSD and severe depression. Towards the end I even began to cheer for him — but then I suddenly realised that I was reading the words of a man who is a master of manipulation, so I began to question how sincere his remorse was.
In the age of disinformation, it is certainly a timely and eye-opening read. And it is very well written — even the parts where you despise your narrator are maddeningly engaging.
Thanks to the publisher, Henry Holt and Co., and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.
