This book's title, "Burn Before Reading", might imply that it will be filled with relevations of inside secrets of the CIA, contain details of exciting exploits of CIA operatives, etc., but that really isn't the case. Written by a former CIA Director, Stansfield Turner, it's much more a history of the Agency, it's management and budgeting issues, its growth and setbacks. It might be better to consider it as a listing of Who's Who in the CIA from its formation through the G.W. Bush Administration, ending with several ideas to improve the efficiency and organization of the Agency. If you're truly interested in how the CIA has evolved over the years, you'll gain some insights. But if you're looking for an exciting inside look into the workings of the Agency, trust the middling Goodreads ratings, and select a different book. ( )

Frank discussion of the history, failures, and realtionship btw the CIA and the White House by a former CIA Director. Well worth reading. ( )