Books Like...
'1968' by Joe Haldeman is a unique blend of fiction and nonfiction, set in the tumultuous year of 1968. The story follows Spider, a young draftee in Vietnam, and his girlfriend Beverly. The book delves into the horrors of war, the struggles of soldiers dealing with PTSD, and the impact of the events of 1968 on their lives. The writing style is described as tightly written, with short chapters that focus on the experiences of the characters.
If you liked 1968, here are the top 4 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'Black Hearts' by Jim Frederick is a detailed investigation into the descent of 1st Platoon, Bravo Company into darkness, culminating in the rape and murder of Iraqi civilians. The book delves into the dynamics of leadership, the human chaos of war, and the ramifications of poor upper leadership on soldiers' ethics and morality. Frederick's writing style presents a true story in a chilling and disturbing manner, shedding light on the stresses and strains faced by modern soldiers in the US forces.
WHEN COLONEL TODD EBEL took command of the 2nd Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division in the summer of 2004, he knew he had little more than a year to get 3,400 men and women ready for a war that was ... - #2
Save:'Generation Kill' by Evan Wright is a firsthand account of the 2003 invasion of Iraq from the perspective of front line grunts in the First Recon Battalion. The book focuses on the experiences, struggles, and impact of the war on the soldiers rather than just the tactical aspects. Wright provides a vivid and honest portrayal of the Marines, their camaraderie, challenges, and the intense situations they faced during the invasion. The narrative moves fast, capturing the essence of the whirlwind of battle and brotherhood within the platoon.
The book is described as thought-provoking, entertaining, and unexpectedly engaging. It offers a character study of the soldiers involved, showcasing their personalities, interactions, and how the war affected them on emotional and physical levels. Wright's writing style is praised for its unbiased and unvarnished manner, presenting the Marines' hopes, nightmares, successes, and challenges in a raw and authentic way. The book is commended for providing a unique and rare perspective on the war from a non-military standpoint, highlighting the hard work, brotherhood, and struggles of the Marines without a political agenda.
Major General James Mattis calls the men in First Reconnaissance Battalion “cocky, obnoxious bastards.” Recon Marines belong to a distinct military occupational specialty, and there are only about a t... - #3
Save:'The Killer Angels' by Michael Shaara is a historical novel that vividly portrays the Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War. Through the perspectives of key figures like Confederate Generals Lee, Longstreet, and Armistead, as well as Federal General Buford and Colonel Joshua L. Chamberlain, the story unfolds with a focus on the strategy of the battle and the emotions of the men involved. The narrative delves into the tactical details leading up to and during the battle, highlighting the complexities and human aspects of war through the eyes of the leaders on both sides.
The writing style of 'The Killer Angels' masterfully conveys the confusion and chaos of war, immersing the reader in the so-called fog of battle. provides a detailed and engaging account of the events at Gettysburg, blending historical accuracy with fictionalized elements to bring the characters and the pivotal battle to life. While offering insights into the minds of soldiers and leaders, the novel also explores themes of courage, decision-making under pressure, and the harsh realities of war.
He rode into the dark of the woods and dismounted. He crawled upward on his belly over cool rocks out into the sunlight, and suddenly he was in the open and he could see for miles, and there was the w... - #4
Save:The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien is a collection of short stories that revolve around the experiences of American soldiers during the Vietnam War. The novel delves into the emotional and psychological impacts of war on the soldiers, exploring themes of pain, guilt, truth, and the weight they carry both physically and emotionally. O'Brien's unique writing style incorporates a blend of fiction and memoir, portraying the harsh realities of war through different perspectives and memories, ultimately highlighting the complexities of human nature in times of conflict.
First Lieutenant Jimmy Cross carried letters from a girl named Martha, a junior at Mount Sebastian College in New Jersey. They were not love letters, but Lieutenant Cross was hoping, so he kept them f...
