The Race Against The Stasi by Herbie Sykes

Dieter Wiedemann was a celebrated athlete in East Germany, but his love for a woman from the West and his disdain for the regime's ideology led him to plot a daring escape. Delegated to West Germany for a race, he seized the opportunity to defect, sparking a scandal and the wrath of the Stasi. Fifty years later, he shares his astonishing story, revealing the madness of the Cold War and the personal toll of his choices. Through his testimony and declassified Stasi files, the book uncovers a tale of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of freedom. Herbie Sykes meticulously reconstructs Dieter's journey, blending historical context with personal narratives to paint a vivid picture of a divided Europe. The book not only highlights the greatest bike race in history but also delves into the human cost of political ideology and the relentless pursuit of freedom.

Reviews

The Christian Science Monitor · 2014-12-05

astonishing 4.75

The book is described as an astonishing story of love and betrayal, highlighting the madness at the heart of the Cold War. It's a tale that captures the essence of a tumultuous period in history.

This review emphasizes the book's ability to weave a tale of love and betrayal against the backdrop of the Cold War. It's a story that's both personal and historical, capturing the madness and the brutality of the era. The reviewer is impressed by the depth of the narrative and the way it brings to life the complexities of the period. It's not just a story about cycling; it's a story about the human condition under extreme circumstances. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on a significant historical period.

Quick quotes

An astonishing story of love and betrayal, of the madness at the heart of the cold war.

The other thing is I was still living in fear of the Stasi.

It's a tale that captures the essence of a tumultuous period in history.

The Inner Ring · 2014-10-14

great 4.50

The book is praised for its gripping narrative and the way it builds tension throughout the story of a cyclist's defection. It is seen as a great mix of historical context and personal drama.

This review highlights how the book masterfully combines a variety of source materials to tell the story of a cyclist's life and defection. The tension is palpable as each page turns, making it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the vivid portrayal of the historical context, which adds layers to the personal drama. It's not just a story about cycling; it's a window into a significant period in history, seen through the lens of an individual's experiences.

Quick quotes

This is a great book that mixes a variety of source materials to tell the story of a cyclist.

Page after page you sense the tension rising as defection gets closer.

The book is a gripping narrative that builds tension throughout.

The Washing Machine Post · 2014-09-01

fascinating 4.00

The book is noted for its unique account of life behind the Iron Curtain and the chilling atmosphere of the Cold War. It's a story that sheds light on the harsh realities of that era.

The reviewer finds the book to be a unique account that provides a chilling insight into life behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. It's a story that's both fascinating and harrowing, offering a perspective that's often overlooked. The reviewer appreciates the detailed portrayal of the era, which brings to life the struggles and fears of those living under such oppressive conditions. It's a story that's not just about cycling but about the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.

Quick quotes

Unique account of life behind the Iron Curtain when the Berlin Wall was up and the Cold War was at its chilliest.

The principal character in this all too real eastern bloc drama is a man called Dieter Wiedemann.

The book sheds light on the harsh realities of that era.

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