In the annals of history, the Vietnam War stands as a somber reminder of the complexities of human conflict. It was a protracted and devastating struggle that left an indelible mark on the world. To delve into the depths of this tumultuous era, we turn to the written word—books that offer a poignant lens through which we can understand the war's origins, its battles, its heroes, and its lasting legacy. These literary works transport us to the jungles of Vietnam, immersing us in the lives of soldiers, civilians, and leaders who were caught in the maelstrom of war. Through their pages, we glimpse the horrors, the triumphs, and the sacrifices that defined this conflict, gaining a deeper appreciation for the profound impact it had on countless lives.
Danger Close!: A Vietnam Memoir is an unforgettable account of the Vietnam War from the unique perspective of a young officer who served two tours in two different divisions. Written by Phil Gioia, an...
The Vietnam War: The Definitive Illustrated History is an essential reference guide to one of the most iconic events in modern history. Written in association with the Smithsonian Institution, this co...
The War Before The War: A Vietnam War Novel (The Airmen Series Book 2) by T. R. Corley is a captivating historical fiction novel that follows the story of CIA officer Rene Granier and Congressman John...
SOG Kontum: Top Secret Missions in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, 1968–1969 is a comprehensive look at the brave and daring missions of the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observation...
When I Turned Nineteen: A Vietnam War Memoir is a powerful and moving account of the experiences of one man in the thick of the Vietnam War. Written by a former soldier, the memoir recounts his experi...
Swift Boats at War in Vietnam is a compelling oral history of the men who fought the Vietnam War on the coast and in the Mekong Delta. Developed specifically for the Vietnam War, Swift Boats were vers...
The Last Hill by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin is an epic story of heroism and courage in World War II. It tells the story of the 2nd Ranger Battalion, known as “Rudder’s Rangers,” and their mission ...
"19 Minutes to Live" illustrates the incredible courage and determination of helicopter pilots and crews supporting those heroes that carried a rucksack and a rifle in Vietnam. Over 12,000 helicopte...
Matterhorn: A Novel of the Vietnam War is an epic war novel by Karl Marlantes, a highly decorated Vietnam War veteran. This New York Times best seller is a powerful and universal story of courage, cam...
There It Is, and It Don’t Mean Nothin': A Vietnam War Memoir is an insightful and heart-wrenching account of Charles Hensler’s experience during the Vietnam War. Written at the request of his daug...
The Vietnam War: An Intimate History is an award-winning book and companion to the major multipart PBS film set to air in September 2017. Written by the same authors of The Civil War, Baseball, The Wa...
Chickenhawk is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the Vietnam War experience. Written by Robert Mason, an Army helicopter pilot who flew more than 1,000 missions in Vietnam, Chickenhaw...
SOG: The Secret Wars of America's Commandos in Vietnam is an eye-opening account of the covert activities of the Studies and Observations Group (SOG), the most secret elite US military unit to serve i...
On Full Automatic: Surviving 13 Months in Vietnam is a gripping memoir from Vietnam veteran William V. Taylor, Jr. that chronicles his journey from Marine recruit to veteran of one of the most brutal ...
The Air War in Vietnam is a deep dive into the effectiveness of air power during the Vietnam War, offering particular evaluation of the extent to which air operations fulfilled national policy objec...
The early 1960s are considered to be a period of failure in the fight against the Viet Cong. However, new research reveals that the VC came very close to being defeated. They were – in their own w...
"A landmark work...The most complete account to date of the Vietnam tragedy." -The Washington Post Book WorldThis monumental narrative clarifies, analyzes, and demystifies the tragic ordeal of the V...
The Vietnam War was one of the most controversial and complex conflicts in American history. From 1955 to 1975, the United States fought a bitter war against the Communist forces of North Vietnam. The war left a deep impact on American society and changed the way war was perceived by the public. There are countless Vietnam War books that detail the events of this war, from the perspectives of politicians, military leaders, soldiers, and civilians. However, not all books are created equal. Here are some valuable tips to consider when choosing Vietnam War books in the Biographies & Memoirs category.
Tip #1: Check the Author’s Credibility
When selecting a Vietnam War book, it is important to check the author’s credibility. You want to ensure that the author has the expertise and knowledge to write about the subject matter. Some people may have personal opinions or biases that can influence the accuracy of the book. One way to check the author’s credibility is to research their background. Look at their education, professional background, and any previous publications on the topic. You can also check to see if the author is a veteran who served in Vietnam or someone who was directly involved in the conflict.Example:
“Dispatches” by Michael Herr is a credible Vietnam War book as the author was a war correspondent who spent time embedded with American troops in Vietnam.
Tip #2: Consider the Scope of the Book
The Vietnam War was a complex conflict that involved multiple countries and cultures. The war also had significant political, social, and economic consequences. When selecting a Vietnam War book, consider the scope of the book. Does it cover the entire duration of the war or just a specific period? Does it focus on a specific aspect of the conflict, such as air warfare or ground operations? A book with a broad scope may provide an overview of the conflict, while a more specific book can give you a better understanding of a particular aspect of the war. The scope of the book you choose can depend on your interests and level of knowledge about the Vietnam War.Example:
“A Bright Shining Lie” by Neil Sheehan covers the entire Vietnam War and also explores its political and social repercussions.
Tip #3: Look for Personal Accounts
Personal accounts can provide a unique perspective on the Vietnam War. They can offer insights into the daily lives of soldiers and civilians, as well as the emotional and psychological impact of the conflict. Personal accounts can be found in memoirs, diaries, and oral histories. When selecting a Vietnam War book, consider if you want to read personal accounts. If so, look for books written by soldiers or civilians who experienced the war firsthand. These types of books can be powerful and emotional, providing a deeper understanding of the impact of the conflict on individuals.Example:
“The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien is a powerful personal account of the experiences of soldiers during the Vietnam War.
Tip #4: Consider the Writing Style
The writing style of a book can influence how enjoyable and easy it is to read. Some Vietnam War books are written in a journalistic style, while others use a narrative or storytelling approach. Some books may be more academic and use formal language and terminology. Consider the writing style of a book when making your selection. Do you prefer a more journalistic approach or a narrative style? Does the author use technical or academic language that may be difficult for you to understand? The writing style can influence your level of engagement with the book.Example:
“The Short-Timers” by Gustav Hasford is a book told in a more informal and raw language, making it more engaging for readers who want something different from academic, historical style books.
Tip #5: Read Reviews
Reading reviews can help you assess the quality of a Vietnam War book. Reviews can provide insights into the book’s strengths and weaknesses, the author’s writing style, and the book’s accuracy. You can find reviews on popular book websites like Amazon or Goodreads. When reading reviews, look for trends. Do most reviewers agree on the book’s quality? Are there certain elements of the book that are consistently praised or criticized? Keep in mind that reviews can be subjective and one person’s opinion may not reflect your own.Example:
“Matterhorn” by Karl Marlantes has received positive reviews for its vivid and detailed portrayal of the Vietnam War.
Conclusion
The Vietnam War was a complex and controversial conflict that has been analyzed and written about countless times. When choosing Vietnam War books in the Biographies & Memoirs category, it is important to consider the author’s credibility, the scope of the book, personal accounts, the writing style, and reviews. With these tips in mind, you can select a Vietnam War book that provides a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in American history.Related Topics You Might Like
