6 of the best books about war
War has irrevocably changed the face of the earth time and time again. These 6 books perfectly demonstrate just how tragic war can be, but also the glory and freedom that are at stake.
All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque
We have to start this list with a classic. Often thought of as the greatest war novel in history, German WWI veteran Remarque wrote All Quiet on the Western Front from his own personal experience. Horrific and poignant, Remarque’s iconic novel captures the innocence and naiveté of the young men who went to war and were never the same again.
What It Is Like to Go to War by Karl Marlantes
New York bestselling author Karl Marlantes writes of his time serving as a lieutenant in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He discusses his struggles as he made decisions which could possibly end the lives of the men under his command and the ordeals he dealt with both during and after the war. If you’ve ever wondered what war is truly like, this is a must read.
Johnny Got His Gun by Dalton Trumbo
Like All Quiet on the Western Front, much-lauded Johnny Got His Gun is an anti-war novel set during the first World War. This book is often described as being just as gruesome and shocking as war itself for its frank portrayal of the violence of battle and the ever-lasting impact of war on both the physical and mental health of those who fought.
My War Gone By, I Miss It So by Anthony Loyd
This autobiographical book by English journalist Anthony Loyd chronicles his experiences covering conflicts in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Chechnya, Afghanistan and Iraq. Born into a long line of war heroes, Loyd writes of his thirst to experience battle in the only way he could: by reporting from the front line of the Bosnian genocide.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Set in 1970s Afghanistan, Hosseini’s stunning New York Times bestseller tells the story of young Amir trying to earn the approval of his father in a kite-fighting tournament. However, Amir and his family are forced to flee their home after it is invaded by the Russians. Hosseini says he was inspired to write the novel after learning that the Taliban had banned kite flying in the country.
A Rumor of War by Philip Caputo
Caputo’s memoir of his time serving in the early years of the Vietnam War will shock you, terrify you and make you endlessly grateful for the sacrifices our soldiers have made over the years. A Rumor of War recounts the sixteen months Caputo spent as a Marine Corps lieutenant that left him utterly broken and shattered. A must read for all to get a sense of the horrors of post-war life.
What’s the best book about war you’ve ever read? Tell us about it in the comment section below.
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