They Knew

How a Culture of Conspiracy Keeps America Complacent

By: Sarah Kendzior

Narrated by: Sarah Kendzior

This program is read by the author.

FINALIST FOR THE LOS ANGELES TIMES BOOK PRIZE

“Every sentence delivered. The pathos of truth-seeking left me thinking of Herman Melville." —Timothy Snyder, #1 New York Times bestselling author of On Tyranny

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING author Sarah Kendzior delves into the difference between conspiracy and conspiracy theory, "deftly separat[ing] fact from fiction in a conspiracy-addled nation" (VANITY FAIR).

"The topics covered in this audiobook may be rough going for listeners, but the author's commitment to sounding the alarm will keep them glued to their earbuds." —AudioFile

Conspiracy theories are on the rise because officials refuse to enforce accountability for real conspiracies. Uncritical faith in broken institutions is as dangerous as false narratives peddled by propagandists.

The truth may hurt—but the lies will kill us.

They Knew discusses conspiracy culture in a rapidly declining United States struggling with corruption, climate change, and other crises. As the actions of the powerful remain shrouded in mystery—“From Norman Baker to Jeffrey Epstein, Iran-Contra to January 6" (VF)—it is unsurprising that people turn to conspiracy theories to fill the informational void. They Knew exposes the tactics these powerful actors use to placate an inquisitive public.

Here, for the first time, Kendzior blends her signature whip-smart prose and eviscerating arguments with lyrical and intimate examinations of the times and places that haunt American history. "America is a ghost story," states Kendzior, as she unearths decades of buried history, providing an essential and critical look at how to rebuild our democracy by confronting the political lies and crimes that have shaped us.

A Macmillan Audio production from Flatiron Books.

©2022 Sarah Kendzior (P)2022 Macmillan Audio

As beautiful as it is terrifying.

Sarah Kendzior is a fantastic writer. Her prose and the way she expresses her thought is majestic; the content she writes about will give you nightmares.

Something important mixed with too much exaggeration

What the author is trying to say is important, but the format of how she tells the story is mixed with constant personal observations of how Covid felt to her, as well as seemingly boasting her predictive prowess.

For me it didn’t work because her Covid experience wasn’t anything like mine. (I’m not an anti-vaxer, and wore a mask throughout mind you) It just seemed here in the south east it wasn’t the end of the world like she experienced.

Anyway, the message is true and I wish it had been written in a better or alternate time line because what it says should be heard by as many people as possible.

Another incredible book

I love Kenzior’s journalism; it’s always incredibly in-depth. Her story-telling creates longing and contemplation. Her use of words not often used is appreciated. I appreciate all she sacrifices to bring us information and history that others would rather we not uncover.

Everyone should read

Sarah is a brave and necessary person in the history of the United States and I hope her amazing works will be recognized as such.

Vital reading

This combination of facts and ideas deserves detailed attention, especially by Americans. Kendzior sets an example for thinking about these troubling and difficult topics. Equally valuable regardless of how familiar one may be with this subject matter. Sprinkled with delightful phrasings, as well!

LOVE Sarah, this is hard to listen to

I can listen to Sarah rant on the fly all day on Gaslit Nation, she really knows her stuff. And I loved Hiding in Plain Sight on audible. But I am giving up on this audiobook halfway through. It’s slow, not all that interesting, and her voice is odd… like she’s trying to sound like a fairy or something lol. I’d rather listen to her impassioned and time constrained speech.

Truth matters!

As hard as the truth is to bear sometimes, Sarah Kendzior tells it like it is. I appreciate that immensely in these days of “alternative facts.” One can’t fight to build a truly equal and democratic society without confronting and defending the truth, whether it be world plutocracy or America’s racist foundations. Thank you for being in the forefront of that truth Sarah - you are truly an inspiration. And you are a great narrator, as well!

Chilling

"They Knew" is as riveting as Sarah's other books, but also poetic. I'm glad that I was able to listen to it.

A great book!

Sarah describes people/events and ties between them. Her thoughts on secrets, conspiracies, conspiracy theories, and the truth furthered my thinking greatly. Read this book.

Incredible book beautifully read by the author

Sarah Kenzior is a beautiful prose writer. Her use of language is often poetic and moving. Her love of country, even as she state’s uncomfortable truths, is as heartfelt and honest as her story is sometimes frightening. There is no false note in this book. Lots of info I never knew, well researched, and original. A brave look at us today.