Flags of Our Fathers by James D. Bradley is a nonfiction book that delves into the lives of the men behind the iconic flag raising picture on Iwo Jima during World War II. The book provides a detailed account of the historical events surrounding the Pacific theater of the war and offers a humanizing perspective on the individuals involved in the flag-raising incident. Readers have praised the book for its ability to present real-life events in a narrative style that reads like a novel, capturing the heart-wrenching moments of the US and Asia Pacific history during the war.

Characters:

The characters are primarily the flag raisers, depicted as ordinary Marines from varied backgrounds who became part of an extraordinary moment.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is simple and accessible, although some readers felt it lacked sophistication and depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative highlights the diverse backgrounds of the flag raisers, their experiences during the Battle of Iwo Jima, and reflects on the true sacrifices of war.

Setting:

The setting is primarily during World War II on Iwo Jima, emphasizing both the battlefield and the subsequent lives of the veterans.

Pacing:

The pacing is steady and engaging, effectively drawing readers into the narrative, though some may find it slower during historical expositions.

IN THE SPRING OF 1998, six boys called to me from half a century ago on a distant mountain and I went there. For a few days I set aside my comfortable life—my business concerns, my life in Rye, New Yo...

Notes:

The author, James D. Bradley, is the son of one of the men who raised the flag on Iwo Jima.

The flag raising photo is one of the most iconic images from World War II.

The book explores the backgrounds of the men involved in the flag raising and the battle for Iwo Jima.

Bradley's father never spoke about his experiences during the war, which intrigued his family after his death.

The battle of Iwo Jima involved 22,000 Japanese defenders and was crucial in the Pacific theater.

New research has altered the identification of the men in the famous flag raising photo since the book was published in 2000.

Some readers believe this book is important for high school students to understand true service and sacrifice.

The author has also written a book called 'Flyboys' which covers events on the island of Chi Chi Jima during the war.

The story highlights the sacrifices made by soldiers, drawing attention to the fading recognition of this 'great generation.'

The book tells a moving story that resonates emotionally with many readers.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Medium content warnings due to themes of war, death, and trauma associated with battle.

From The Publisher:

The New York Times bestselling chronicle of one of the most famous moments in American military history-the raising of the U. S. flag at Iwo Jima during World War II-now adapted for young adults. Read the true story behind the immortal photograph that has come to symbolize the courage and strength of America and its armed forces.

This is a penetrating, epic look at a generation at war, told with keen insight and enormous honesty -also a major motion picture directed by Clint Eastwood. In February 1945, American Marines plunged into the surf at Iwo Jima-and into history. Through a hail of machine-gun and mortar fire, they battled to the island's highest peak. And there, they raised a flag, signaling a historic step towards the eventual defeat of the Axis powers of World War II.

A powerful account of six very different men-three of which were killed in battle- who came together in the heroic fight for the Pacific's most crucial island. It is the story of the difference between truth and myth, the legacy of a hero, and the brutal cost of war.

Ratings (3)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (5):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (2)

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Flags of Our Fathers

James D. Bradley