Positives The book is largely lauded as an essential and important read, offering a gripping, thriller-like account of the initial contact between journalist Glenn Greenwald and whistleblower Edward Snowden, and their subsequent meeting in Hong Kong. Reviewers commend the courage and integrity displayed by Snowden, Greenwald, and other journalists involved in shining a light on government activities. The book is praised for its in-depth analysis of pervasive surveillance programs, detailing how personal communications are collected and stored, and for prompting readers to confront the reality of widespread privacy invasion. Many also highlight Greenwald's incisive critique of mainstream media and his arguments for the vital role of adversarial journalism in a free society.
Negatives Despite its strengths, some readers found the book to be uneven. Criticisms include Greenwald's perceived self-absorption and at times overly aggressive tone, particularly in his critiques of other journalists. Some reviewers felt the writing could be repetitive, dry, or hastily edited in places, resembling a blog more than an investigative report. For those already well-versed in the NSA revelations, certain sections might not offer new information. Practical issues such as numerous unreadable screenshots of classified documents and a heavy reliance on acronyms were also noted. Additionally, one perspective strongly questions Snowden's actions, viewing him as a "grandiose narcissist" whose leaks were a crime and irresponsible, rather than a heroic act.
Conclusion Overall, "No Place to Hide" is considered a deeply thought-provoking and often frightening book that compels readers to consider the profound implications of government surveillance on civil liberties and democracy. It is highly recommended as required reading for anyone interested in the complex issues of privacy in the digital age, government accountability, and the press's role as a watchdog. The book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the events surrounding the Snowden leaks, regardless of one's existing views on the subject, and is suggested for a broad audience, from high school students to voting-aged adults, to foster a deeper conversation about the boundaries of state power.
