Review of In Plain Sight

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Fatola Fatai
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Review of In Plain Sight

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[Following is a volunteer review of "In Plain Sight" by Susan Mallett.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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In Plain Sight by Susan Mallett is a narrative that sheds light on the extraordinary events that occurred during the COVID-19 era. As someone who followed the news during the period, I found this book to be an insightful exploration of the headlines that dominated our attention. Mallett draws readers in by revealing the genesis of the book, which she said was from her note-taking of stories that piqued her interest throughout 2022, during the COVID-19 pandemic. This establishes a sense of authenticity about the entire work.

One aspect that resonated with me was Mallett’s discussion of the COVID-19 situation in England and around the world during that period. As a sports enthusiast, I could relate to the author’s example of Novak Djokovic being denied entry to Australia to take part in the Open tennis championship, a consequence of the tensions and restrictions in place. Throughout the book, Mallett’s educational insights are invaluable. I gained a deeper understanding of the pandemic, such as the existence of multiple variants like Omicron and Delta. I also learned a lot from the author’s detailed account of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

What struck me most, however, was Mallett’s ability to shed light on the behind-the-scenes activities that precipitated major occurrences during the period. Her explanation of the Australian government’s true motives for denying Novak Djokovic entry was eye-opening, challenging the mainstream narrative and offering a factual perspective.

I rate this book five out of five stars, and here’s why: First, it serves as an invaluable archive, providing an up-to-date and comprehensive account of the events that unfolded during the COVID-19 era. Anyone seeking a detailed understanding of that period will find this book an indispensable resource. Second, Mallett’s willingness to question and explore alternative narratives adds a layer of critical analysis that is often lacking in mainstream reporting. I commend the careful editing of the book, as I did not encounter any typos while reading.

I did not notice any negatives or areas in need of improvement. Without hesitation, I recommend this book to a wide range of readers, such as history enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive account of the events of the COVID-19 era, critical thinkers eager to explore alternative perspectives on mainstream narratives, or someone who values well-researched and thought-provoking analysis of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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In Plain Sight
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