It is hard to read this account and remain indifferent.

...the 1990’s has seen something of proliferation of books on the UN. Linda Melvern’s book deserves a place on or very near the top of the pile.... this is a hidden history of the UN, indeed of the post©1945 world which will be of value to academics and the general reader. It is a major work of fact and argument which deserves considerable attention from those wanting to know how the UN worked during its first 50 years.

Too little attention has been paid to this important book since its publication, despite strong recommendations from those in international politics. The book is an all too accurate view of the United Nations and is particularly notable for the new information which it contains. Facts rather than explanations or interpreta- tions give the story its weight and force. The book is sober and careful.