THE THINGS THEY CARRIED, Tim O'Brien
This is the third time I've read this book and each time I've liked it more. As we get further from those years--the ones of the war in Vietnam, this book reminds me of what sacrifices young men made and also how a group of ragtag protesters were able to end it. Eventually.
My book group chose it for their July selection hence the third read.
TTTC is actually a series of stories based on O'Brien's tour of duty in Vietnam. The first and title story is about the actual things found in soldier's packs, pockets, hearts. Other stories consider various issues faced by soldiers--often very young soldiers--most of whom have not even had a real girlfriend to leave behind.
My favorite story tells of a girl who came to Vietnam to be with her boyfriend and how the experience changed her--even her body becomes soldier-like as she goes further and further in country. Another heart-breaking tale details how the author was on his way to Canada when a man, near the border, put him up while he thought it over. The simple days they spent together convinced the author he could only live with himself if he went to Vietnam despite his hatred of the war.
These are strong, wonderfully written stories and if you want to understand a soldier's life especially during the war in Vietnam, this is a great place to start.
For more reviews, go to Barrie Summy's blog.
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