Drums in the Distance

Journeys into the Global Far Right

By: Joe Mulhall

Narrated by: Finlay Robertson

A terrifying and timely look at the spread of far-right movements across the globe.

Joe Mulhall knows what it’s like to stare fascism in the face. For a decade, often undercover at significant personal risk, he has investigated hate groups.

He infiltrated a US white supremacist militia, set up a fake Ku Klux Klan branch, has been on countless street marches with violent far-right groups across Europe and got inside some of the most important ‘alt-right’ meetings ever held. Brazil, India and the US are still in thrall to authoritarian populism, and far-right views have become steadily normalised in mainstream politics. Mulhall’s dramatic experiences on the front line of anti-fascist activism, coupled with his academic research, clearly explain the roots of both elected and non-elected far-right movements across the globe. Above all, he concludes, the far right should not be dehumanised - they are normal people, but with dangerous beliefs that can be defeated.

©2021 Joe Mulhall (P)2021 W. F. Howes Ltd

Critic reviews

"Few, if any, are better placed to write a book of this breadth and scale than Joe Mulhall." (Mark Townsend, Home Affairs editor of the Observer)

"Joe has had a unique view of the far right over the past decade as it transformed from a marginal subculture into one of the defining political currents of our time. He understands how these groups think and operate, and is perfectly placed to guide readers through this disturbing but vital story." (Daniel Trilling, journalist and author of Lights in the Distance: Exile and Refuge at the Borders of Europe)

enlightening and entertainingly-presented

The author's harrowing work is crucial, and everyone should understand his conclusions in our modern world which is being shaped by the far right/rising threats. This book paints a global picture, with clarifying analysis, and gives perspective of change over time. I don't think we can afford to consider anything in politics or current events without acknowledging what is presented here.

A Hidden Gem

This book is something of a hidden gem and could definitely use some more love. Well worth checking out. Drums in The Distance is part spy thriller and part history text / memoir. The author is uniquely qualified to speak about the far right and how to fight them. I devoured this book in one sitting.