Books matching: humor in war stories
19 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Rogue Heroes: The History of the SAS, Britain's Secret Special Forces Unit That Sabotaged the Nazis and Changed the Nature of War' by Ben Macintyre delves into the daring and courageous exploits of the Special Air Service during World War II. Through a series of clandestine operations, the SAS, led by unconventional leaders like David Stirling, disrupted and destroyed enemy targets deep behind enemy lines. Macintyre's narrative style vividly brings to life the intense missions, the camaraderie among the soldiers, and the strategic innovations that shaped modern warfare. captures the bravery, humor, and vulnerability of the SAS members, highlighting their individual stories within the larger context of the war.
Macintyre skillfully weaves together historical accuracy with engaging storytelling, showcasing the evolution of the SAS from its unconventional beginnings in the North African desert to its pivotal role in the European campaigns. not only explores the military tactics and achievements of the SAS but also delves into the personal journeys of the men who served in this elite unit. Through a mix of humor, action, and historical insight, 'Rogue Heroes' offers a compelling account of the rogue heroes who defied the odds and made a lasting impact on the course of the war.
Five months before Operation Squatter, a tall, thin soldier lay, grumpy and immobile, in a Cairo hospital bed. The twenty-five-year-old officer had been brought into the Scottish Military Hospital on ... - #2
Save:'M*A*S*H' by Richard Hooker is a humorous and satirical novel set in a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War. The story follows the antics and experiences of doctors like Hawkeye Pierce, Trapper John McIntyre, Radar O'Reilly, and Hot Lips Houlihan as they navigate the challenges of war surgery, military life, and maintaining their sense of humor in the face of adversity. The writing style is described as episodic, ready-made for a comedy drama series, with amusing characters and witty dialogue that explores themes of irreverence towards authority and the absurdity of war.
When Radar O’Reilly, just out of high school, left Ottumwa, Iowa, and enlisted in the United States Army it was with the express purpose of making a career of the Signal Corps. Radar O’Reilly was only... - #3
Save:In 'Next of Kin' by Eric Frank Russell, readers are taken on a humorous and subversive adventure following scout pilot John Leeming as he crash lands on an enemy planet during an intergalactic war. Armed with only his wit and an imaginary friend named Eustace, Leeming must navigate through a series of escapades involving deception, escape attempts, and outsmarting his captors. The story is filled with irreverent humor, clever plot twists, and a refreshing disregard for authority figures, reminiscent of classic science fiction tales from the 1950s.
Russell's writing style in 'Next of Kin' is described as gleefully subversive and wildly funny, with a light-hearted romp through a captured spy's escapades that showcases the author's talent for crafting plots that use the ridiculous to achieve the impossible. The book offers a mix of humor, adventure, and clever storytelling, set in a futuristic world that allows for entertaining plot devices and explores themes of alien psychology and bureaucracy subversion with a touch of vintage science fiction charm.
- #4
Save:In 'Dark Voyage' by Alan Furst, the reader is taken on a gripping journey aboard the Dutch tramp steamer Noordendam during the early days of World War II. Captain Eric DeHaan and his crew find themselves thrust into the world of espionage as they navigate dangerous waters and secret missions for Allied naval intelligence. The novel expertly combines historical accuracy with strong character development, offering a unique perspective on the war through the eyes of ordinary individuals facing extraordinary circumstances. Furst’s writing style immerses readers in the nautical setting, capturing the atmosphere of the wartime era with meticulous detail and evocative storytelling.
In the port of Tangier, on the last day of April, 1941, the fall of the Mediterranean evening was, as always, subtle and slow. Broken cloud, the color of dark fire in the last of the sunset, drifted o...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Night Soldiers ) - #5
Save:"Charlie Wilson's War" by George Crile is a non-fiction account of the extraordinary story of Congressman Charlie Wilson and a rogue CIA agent who changed the course of history by supporting the Afghan rebels in their fight against the Soviet invasion. paints a picture of Wilson as a larger-than-life character, showcasing his reckless behavior and out-sized influence in shaping US foreign policy, ultimately leading to unintended consequences in the rise of militant Islam in the Middle East.
When Congressman Charlie Wilson set off for a weekend in Las Vegas on June 27, 1980, there was no confusion in his mind about why he had chosen to stay at Caesars Palace. He was a man in search of pur... - #6
Save:Rufus M. is a heartwarming tale set during World War II, focusing on the youngest Moffat, Rufus, and his adventures in the town of Cranbury, Massachusetts. The book offers a glimpse into Rufus's daily life, filled with humorous situations and heartfelt moments. Through a collection of short stories, readers follow Rufus as he navigates childhood with his widowed mother and older siblings, showcasing his imaginative spirit and determination to contribute to his family. The writing style captures the essence of a young boy's perspective, making it both engaging for children and nostalgic for adults.
The library lady was sitting at the desk playing with some cards. Rufus stepped off the matting. The cool, shiny floor felt good to his bare feet. He went over to the shelves and luckily did find one ...
(Also, see 99 recommendations for the series The Moffats ) - #7
Save:In the fourth book of the series, James Herriot, an English country vet, continues to share warm and fuzzy stories filled with humor and compassion from his experiences in the 1950s. The book details Herriot's return to Yorkshire after serving in World War II, where he navigates through his veterinary practice, raising his children, and embarking on adventures to Russia and Istanbul. The stories are a mix of sentimental and humorous anecdotes, reflecting post-war Britain and the changes in veterinary medicine over time.
The book captures the essence of veterinary life post-World War II, as Herriot battles diseases and injuries affecting farm animals and pets in Yorkshire. With a blend of laughter, wisdom, compassion, and goodness, Herriot's tales touch readers' hearts and uplift their spirits, making the book a delightful read for those who enjoy stories about animals and rural life.
My mind drifted effortlessly back to the days before my spell in the R.A.F., and I recalled the last time I had visited the Ripleys. It was to “nip some calves,” as Mr. Ripley said over the phone, or ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series All Creatures Great and Small ) - #8
Save:The Nymphos of Rocky Flats follows Felix Gomez, a vampire private investigator hired by the government to investigate an outbreak of nymphomania at a secret research facility. As he delves into the case, Felix navigates through a world filled with vampire hunters, supernatural elements, and conspiracy theories. The book combines elements of urban fantasy, paranormal mystery, and political commentary, creating a unique and entertaining blend of genres.
The plot of the book is complimented by the character of Felix Gomez, a guilt-ridden vampire with a noir detective vibe. Despite his flaws, Felix is portrayed as a likable protagonist who evolves throughout the story. The book is praised for its originality in reimagining vampire mythology, its intriguing mystery surrounding the nymphomania outbreak, and its subtle political critique woven into the narrative.
Two weeks after President Bush stood on the deck of the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln and declared “Mission Accomplished”—victory over Saddam Hussein—we in the Third Infantry Division were still as... - #9
Save:'McAuslan in the Rough' by George MacDonald Fraser is a collection of funny and historical short stories that recount the tales of service in a Scottish Highland regiment post World War II. The stories feature McAuslan, a lovable but illiterate trooper, and his interactions with a young lieutenant, showcasing McAuslan's knack for getting into trouble despite his good intentions. The book offers a mix of humor, tragedy, and insight into post-war life in a Scottish Infantry battalion, making it a delightful and entertaining read with a touch of authenticity.
- #10
Save:'Civil War Stories' by Candace Ward, Ambrose Bierce is a collection of short stories set during the American Civil War. Bierce, who served in the Union Army during the war, provides a firsthand perspective on the horrors and realities of the conflict. The stories range from battlefields to soldiers' personal experiences, often with unexpected and jarring endings that leave a lasting impact on the reader.
Bierce's writing style is described as clear-eyed, scathing, and unflinching when portraying the banality and cynicism of war. Through his narratives, he delves into the darker aspects of human nature, the gallantry, and the grim reality of life and death during the Civil War. The stories are filled with twists, honor, gallantry, and glory, offering a unique insight into the experiences of those who fought in the war.
I THIS IS A SIMPLE story of a battle; such a tale as may be told by a soldier who is no writer to a reader who is no soldier. The morning of Sunday, the sixth day of April, 1862, was bright and warm. ...
