THE HIDDEN HISTORY OF BURMA Race, Capitalism, and the Crisis of Democracy in the 21st Century

Assaf Cohen is a capable narrator for this thorough examination of the many issues plaguing the nascent democracy of Burma. He is academic, earnest, and informative throughout the chapters that outline the promise and limitations facing the nation. Cohen makes clear the complex, intertwined factors of race, government, and economics that compete for dominance. He brings forth the hope and ensuing disappointment of longtime dissenter Aung San Suu Kyi's liberation and subsequent rise to power. For those wishing to learn more about this troubled country and its complicated past, this is a relatively easy listen, filled with detailed information. Cohen skillfully guides listeners through the myriad issues and considerable potential of one of the world's oldest countries. M.R. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2019]