For Whom the Dogs Spy: Haiti: From the Duvalier Dictatorships to the Earthquake, Four Presidents, and Beyond Hardcover – January 6, 2015

Great book written by a person who lived the life of what he's writing about. I would recommend it, especially for those Haitians, who, like me, left the country years ago ( mid 60's for me, and only 9 years old), but have a loving nostalgia for it . Mr Joseph is a talented writer who'll inform you, make you laugh a lot with those creole gems he drops in the book from time to time. Haitians who know some creole know what I'm talking about, but even if you don't, you'll still LOL. At the same time, a very serious book that delves into the sad political and historical intrigue that has plagued the country from its birth to the present day. lastly, The writer, love him, hate him, the man is a true nationalist who makes you feel proud of Haitian birth and gives you solid reason for it too. I highly recommend it.

A good book that seems like three books in one. In the beginning it came across as a brag sheet for the author, then became a very opinionated and vibrant action story and finally a concise historical narrative about the current politics in Haiti. At times it seemed like different authors were behind the sections. The middle section was the most enjoyable to read. The depth of personal knowledge and first hand experience were the strengths of this good book. I expected more on the history of Haiti, and even the abdication of Baby Doc seemed too brief in explanation. The title of the book is misleading, as there is very little in this volume about the earthquake - just a few sentences at the end. All in all a good book by a self reported great man who no doubt adds much to the literature about this deeply troubled island. I will seek out a book with more on the history.

The book provides an insiders view of the political development of Haiti from the Duvalier up to more recent times. It fills gaps that are left by occasional news reports and provides context for assessing those reports.The book suffers somewhat from the intimacy of the author to the events he describes. Sometimes, the work is more of a personal reflection or recollection than a broader accounting.These are some amazing antidotes in the book that could only be provides by a person who has served in the diplomatic corps for decades and has a insider's understanding of the UN and other institutions.

I have been on multiple mission trips to Haiti. I read a Wall Street Journal review and was intrigued by the title. This was a look at the politics and the culture of Haiti. I found it interesting and informative as I have a desire to learn more about a country whose people I have fallen in love with. Well worth reading and very timely. Worked well with Travesty in Haiti and The Uses of Haiti that I was reading at the same time.

Raymond Joseph, the one-time Ambassador for the country of Haiti to the USA, tells it like it is. I appreciate his candidness and honestly, putting his life on the line to tell the truth. He minces no words and gives praise where praise it due and exposes corruption where it is rife. If you want a good picture of why Haiti is the way it is, READ THIS BOOK!

Ambassador Joseph certainly knows all the different players in Haitian history. His descriptions of them is spot on. A must read for anyone interested in this vibrant country that has such close ties to the U S.

This is a truth telling narrative about Haiti's very troubled recent history by an author who has fought non-violently against the several dictatorships that have afflicted Haiti. It is reality based and it faces the reality with courage, clarity, directness, and a forthright sense of purpose. It provides a look in the mirror for not only Haitians but for non-Haiitans who have engaged with Haiti or who will do so.

I know the author. I was a little disappointed. But its better than I could have done for sure.