Books Like...
'The Assassins' Gate: America in Iraq' by George Packer is a well-researched account that delves into the complexities of the Iraq War, focusing on the experiences of various individuals involved in the conflict. Packer provides a detailed narrative of the decision-making process behind the war, shedding light on the ideological and political reasons that shaped the invasion. Through interviews with ex-pat Iraqis, soldiers, and civilians, the book captures the human element of the war, highlighting the struggles, challenges, and hopes of both Iraqis and Americans during the turbulent times of war and occupation.
Packer's writing style blends political analysis with the readability of a novel, making the book engaging and informative. He offers a balanced perspective on the war, addressing the failures and mistakes made by the Bush administration while also showcasing the resilience and humanity of the individuals affected by the conflict. By providing a comprehensive overview of the war's impact on various stakeholders, Packer offers readers a nuanced and insightful exploration of the Iraq War and its aftermath.
If you liked The Assassins' Gate: America in Iraq, here are the top 3 books to read next:
'One Bullet Away: The Making of a Marine Officer' by Nathaniel Fick is a memoir that delves into the experiences of a Marine officer in combat. It provides a detailed account of the training process, the impact of influential figures like Air Force Col. John Boyd on Marine battle doctrine, and the emotional and moral challenges faced during deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq. The writing style captures the intensity of both the physical and mental challenges of being a Marine officer, while also reflecting on the complexities of leadership and the realities of war.
FIFTEEN OF US climbed aboard the ancient white school bus. Wire mesh covered its windows and four black words ran along its sides: UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS. Dressed casually in shorts and sandals, w...- #2
Save:War by Sebastian Junger is a gripping account of the experiences of Second Platoon, of the 173rd Airborne Brigade, stationed in the dangerous Korengal Valley in Afghanistan. Junger, an embedded journalist, lived with the soldiers, capturing their story with depth and poignancy. The book delves into the psychology of soldiers, exploring themes of fear, bravery, and the deep bonds formed in the face of war. It provides a raw and honest look at the realities of combat, the adrenaline-fueled moments, and the struggles faced by soldiers both on and off the battlefield.
Junger's writing style immerses readers in the daily lives of the soldiers, from moments of extreme boredom to intense combat situations. The book offers insights into military strategy, the group dynamics of a combat unit, and the impact of war on the minds and bodies of its participants. Through personal profiles and humanizing characteristics, Junger paints a vivid picture of the soldiers in the Korengal Valley, providing a glimpse into the harsh realities of modern warfare.
O’BYRNE AND THE MEN OF BATTLE COMPANY ARRIVED in the last week in May when the rivers were running full and the upper peaks still held their snow. Chinooks escorted by Apache helicopters rounded a mas... - #3
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...
