Veteran's Day--The Things They Carried

         

Today is the official observance of Veteran's Day, and the book that comes to mind is The Things They Carried, the 1990 fictional account of the Vietnam War written by Tim O'Brien, a veteran of that conflict who was awarded a Purple Heart.  It is a moving account of the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of war, rich in symbolism and based on the author's own experience.

Since its publication, The Things They Carried has become a classic literary work that is often assigned reading in high school and college classes.  It is also a book club favorite, and a former National Endowment for the Arts Big Read. 

I can think of no better read to commemorate soldiers and veterans of war and to attempt to understand their experience.

Catherine

Follow me on Twitter: @bookclubreader

Veteran's Day--The Things They Carried was originally published by Catherine for bookclublibrarian.blogspot.com.  This post cannot be republished without express written consent.

Sunday Spotlight--Veteran's Day Fiction

Today is a day to honor the men and women who protect us and safeguard our freedom and to thank their loved ones as well. We remember all who have served, continue to serve, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.  We appreciate your strength and courage.

Veteran's Day reminded me of the Troubleshooters series by Suzanne Brockmann, a prolific, multi-award winning romantic suspense writer.  The series, 17 books thus far, focuses on a group of men and women with military and/or investigative training who find themselves in harm's way as they defend their country and it's citizens from danger.  These red-blooded heroes and heroines share intense relationships both personally and professionally.

With non-stop action and appealing reappearing characters, this series is a favorite among readers who enjoy daring tales with a side of romance.  Think Homeland on steroids.

Titles in the Troubleshooter series in order of publication:
The Unsung Hero (2000)
The Defiant Hero (2001)
Over the Edge (2001)
Out of Control (2002)
Into the Night (2002)
Gone Too Far (2003)
Flashpoint (2004)
Hot Target (2004)
Breaking Point (2005)
Into the Storm (2006)
Force of Nature (2007)
All Through the Night (2007)
Into the Fire (2008)
Dark of Night (2009)
Hot Pursuit (2009)
Breaking the Rules (2011)
Headed for Trouble (2012)

Catherine

Follow me on Twitter: @bookclubreader

Sunday Spotlight--Veteran's Day Fiction was originally published by Catherine for bookclublibrarian.blogspot.com.  This post cannot be republished without express written consent.