52 pages • 1 hour read
Permanent Record
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Book Brief
352
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Contemporary USA
2019
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Permanent Record by Edward Snowden, released in 2019, is his memoir detailing his journey from a tech-obsessed youth to a CIA and NSA contractor who becomes a world-famous whistleblower in 2013, revealing the extensive and secret surveillance of American citizens by intelligence agencies. He navigates a complex professional and personal life, culminating in his exile to Russia where he continues advocating for privacy rights. The memoir includes topics related to governmental surveillance, privacy issues, and geopolitical asylum, along with personal challenges such as mental health struggles.
Informative
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
70,580 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Permanent Record by Edward Snowden captivates with its gripping narrative and insightful exploration of privacy and surveillance. Readers find it both inspiring and alarming, appreciating Snowden’s candidness and technical explanations. However, some critique it as self-serving and lacking in depth regarding moral implications. Overall, it’s a compelling read for privacy advocates and tech enthusiasts alike.
Who Should Read Permanent Record?
Readers who enjoy Permanent Record by Edward Snowden are typically intrigued by modern surveillance, whistleblowing, and personal narratives of individuals challenging powerful institutions. Fans of 1984 by George Orwell and Why Privacy Matters by Neil Richards may find this memoir particularly compelling.
70,580 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Lindsay Mills
Lindsay Mills
Snowden’s longtime girlfriend and eventual wife, who represents the general public's unawareness of government surveillance. Her relationship with Snowden highlights the personal impact and sacrifice associated with his actions.
Glenn Greenwald
Glenn Greenwald
A journalist initially hesitant to engage with Snowden's revelations until persuaded by filmmaker Laura Poitras. Represents a skeptical segment of society that Snowden needs to convince to publicize the surveillance story.
Laura Poitras
Laura Poitras
A documentary director who shows a willingness to listen to Snowden and becomes instrumental in connecting him with journalists like Glenn Greenwald. Plays a crucial role in Snowden's plan to expose surveillance practices.
352
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Contemporary USA
2019
Adult
18+ years
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