Volkman, Ernest and Baggett, Blaine. Secret Intelligence. New York: Doubleday, 1989. 265 pages.

This self-described "popular history" of certain episodes in U.S. intelligence grew out of a public television series that was produced in Los Angeles. It concentrates on the topics that might capture an audience: code-breaking, assassinations, Vietnam and Laos, the FBI's Cointelpro, electronic intelligence, and spy satellites. It begins in 1917 and ends with William Casey, and between those years it touches briefly on some of the more familiar issues and events.

The writing style is geared to the compelling video image, and sometimes presumes a front-row seat that imputes mood and motive to historical actors. Thus the teaser on the dust cover, "The Inside Story of America's Espionage Empire," shouldn't be taken seriously. Viewers who want documentary infotainment will like the series, while folks who read only an occasional book will probably enjoy this one. If you think you have an interest in the topic, this is a good place to start. It may not be comprehensive, but it's painless, informative, and well-written.
ISBN 0-385-24590-4

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