5 comments about The Devil Soldier: The American Soldier of Fortune Who Became a God in China.

1. It seems fitting that one of the most implausible films ever made should be based "loosely" on a book about one of the most implausible real-life figures of history. Frederick Townsend Ward, the Devil Soldier, had nothing to do with the civil war in Japan; neither did any other American officer. But Ward did play a huge role in the defense of the Manchu imperial government against the forces of Chun Wang, the syncretic Sino-Christian rebel, in the Taiping civil war, supposedly the bloodiest conflict of the 19th Century. My five-star rating of this book is contingent upon also reading Jonathan Spence's book about the Taipings, God's Chinese Son. Otherwise you will have less than half the story. Caleb Carr writes very well, but this is not a novel, and as a history it is far too partial.
   
   In his prologue, Carr declares: "No man's life can be truly understood out of context, but in Ward's case the context is especially vital." No kidding, Caleb! In Ward's case, the context is virtually all we have, since nothing of Ward's own letters or thoughts has survived. Thus Carr is writing a biography so much as a social history of a moment in time, that moment when the vast culture of China first "discovered" the West. Carr's short moment of importance was his organization and training of the "Ever Victorious Army" of Chinese soldiers using Western military training and tactics. For better or worse, Ward's model army became the nucleus of the forces that destroyed the Taipings, though the man who replaced Ward as commander after Ward was killed, the scoundrel known as Chinese Gordon, has replaced him in historical memory also.
   
   More novelist than historian, Caleb Carr might fairly be criticized for overdrawing his sources, or for not maintaining sufficient academic reserve. It would be wrong to ignore this book, however, if you have any interest in the history of modern China, in which FT Ward was a meteor in the sky, an omen of things to come.



2. Slow starting off but if the subjects (China, military history, adventure) interest you it is worth sticking to it. The pace of the writing picks up after a bit and the last 2/3 are enjoyable. I do wish there had been more historical pictures and maps.



3. In 1859 a 28 year-old sailing officer from Salem Massachusetts took service under the Chinese Empire to defend it from mortal danger. When this young man died in battle in 1863 he had put down the largest and bloodiest civil war in human history (the American Civil War raging at the same time pales in comparison), he had been made a general and a mandarin, he had married a Chinese princess, and he was interred in his own temple. Perhaps most impressively was the fact that he did all of this while retaining the reputation among his friends and foes of being a man of decency, fairness, honor and incorruptibility. And yet for all this, he is nearly forgotten in both his native and adopted country.
   
   Frederick Townsend Ward's history was erased largely because he was feared by both his Manchu masters and by the European powers that were seeking to dismember China for their own mercenary ends. The author speculates that due to his contempt for the cruelty and corruption of the Manchu's, that had he survived, he might have turned the instrument of his "Ever Victorious Army" against them in order to restore the Ming Dynasty. Had that happened, the history of China could have far different in the century that followed. It is clear that Ward found the concept of ending the Empire as unthinkable- which is why the later republic never honored his memory.
   
   One other thing struck me while reading this book: Ward wanted to attend West Point but was not able to obtain an appointment because he lacked "connections." In the long run this didn't seem to hurt him too much....
   
   If this story were fiction it would surely be dismissed as too far-fetched to ever be believed.



4. A very enjoyable tale of a colorful historical character. Carr has a real flair for bringing such a strange time to life, and making it feel familiar. He talks about the Taiping rebellion as if it only happened yesterday, which adds to the sense of reportage and realism. I'm looking forward to the reputed John Woo movie adaptation, although someone should have checked the illustrations before they were finalised. My copy prints Ward's battle-flag upside down -- doubly embarrassing since it is the right way up on the book's cover.



5. In this involving and well-written account, Carr strains to elevate the importance of Ward, a historical footnote, a mercenary of questionable repute and eventual Qing dynasty functionary whose prime contribution was the cobbling together of the use of "superior and modern" Western weapons against backwards sword and spear carrying Taiping rebels. And by Carr's own account, Ward was only partially successful. To thank him for his assistance (which ultimately helped maintain both Western imperial domination of China, the opium trade, and the extension of the corrupt and weak Qing empire), in a relationship of dual purpose, the Manchu Qing regime (not the Chinese people)gave him an official title and a Chinese wife. Carr's pro-Western bias is strong, as is his strange love of the Ward myth, which he does his best to overblow. Carr's sourcing is spotty, and in too many places, he speculates---typically in ways that favor Ward. This book, and indeed the Ward story itself, presents a very enlightening model of how violent rogue mercenaries, terrorists, and intelligence cutouts are used to assist governments in "counter-insurgency" wars throughout history, such as the Phoenix Program.

5 comments about Soldier: The Life of Colin Powell (Vintage).

1. I don't know what Karen has in mind but this is one book that does not have a table of contents. She seems to want more that readers read this cover to cover of 700 page book than saving reader's time. For someone one who does not respect reader's time, I give a one star review no matter how good the writing is!



2. Reviewed by Laura V. Hilton
   
   Colin L. Powell is probably one of the most admired men in recent American history. A military general and serving a tenure as U.S. Secretary of State, Powell also had a brief run for the White House which he bowed out from early due to threats made to his family.
   
   Soldier takes you on a trip to Powell's Bronx childhood days, as the child of Jamaican immigrants, and follows him as he grows up, enters the military, serving in Desert Storm, and then later serves as Secretary of Sate.
   
   Ms. DeYoung is associate editor at The Washington Post, and this shows in the book. Written in a straightforward, report-the-news style, she introduces us to the man so many of us admired, without a lot of flowery prose. The bad thing is that the whole story is told to us, and as a mostly fiction reader, that mean that I was able to put the book down a lot. That is the only reason I'm giving it 4 stars (out of 5). Otherwise, it was excellently told, very well-written, and very informative, including pages and pages of notes so if you doubted anything the author said and cared to research it, you could find the author's source with ease.
   
   I learned a lot about Colin Powell that I didn't know, and a lot about my country I didn't know--for instance, there is a War College to study war, both how to fight and how to avoid.
   
   The book is flattering to Powell, presenting him as a soldier, forever more, and is comprehensively researched.
   
   Armchair Interviews says: Recommended as excellent biography for students of history and to learn about this much-admired man.



3. Overall, this book is an excellent, informative look into the life of Powell. However, it certainly seems to have a definite slant towards the left in the personal opinions of the author, with opinions on Republican presidents and leaders being less favorable than those of the Democrat leaders. However, those slight tilts are so minute as to possibly be non-existent, but simply a figment of my own imagination.
   
   Overall, excellent reading, and a great source of recent American Historic overview in general.



4. This biography of Colin Powell is very impressive. It details both his career as a serviceman and then as a political appointee for a period totalling almost 50 years.
   
   As a non-American, it is interesting to read a biography of an individual who is both influential in terms of the positions he has held, and a positive role model for many. Colin Powell comes across as a fundamentally decent human being in an environment where power can have a corrosive effect.
   
   I recommend this biography to anyone who wants to know more about Colin Powell and his life and times, as well as to anyone interested in understanding the world events and political influences within which he served the USA.
   
   Jennifer Cameron-Smith



5. One of the best biographies of a political character that I have ever read. There are times where I lose track of who the players are and what a particular politician or officer's title means. Yet, overall I was able to follow what was going on and how it affected our nation. Powell did an excellent job of speaking at the Speaker Series. He was smooth and easy to follow with quips and humorous antidotes throughout the evening. He reminded me of that member of everyone's family who is easy to talk to and one who people are drawn to. That is probably why he has been such a great leader of our generation.

5 comments about Desperate Lands: The War on Terror Through the Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier.

1. I recommend that you read Desperate Lands. It gave me a valuable glimpse into the war that can only be told by a hero who has been there, faithfully serving the rest of us. It is not a highly action-packed drama, but an opportunity to see reality in places I have never been, through a soldier's eyes. I am impressed by the training and professionalism applied to this difficult and dangerous job. The visions have come back to my mind from this unbiased story which is missing in my morning newspaper. We are proud to have you as one of us, Reggie, and thankful that you came home unharmed.



2. Master Sergeant Zapata has opened my eyes and taken me on a tour. We traveled to the other side of the world, the war torn side that no one wants to visit. Before this, I had only seen things in the bits and pieces that the networks offer.
   
   From the mundane and tedious, (I believe "Hurry up and wait" comes from the military experience) to the heart pounding encounters, I felt like I was actually there, witnessing the events unfolding in front of me. I could almost feel the burning heat of Qatar, and the biting cold from the icy wind sweeping across the Afghani desert. The sparse comforts and extreme conditions that they lived with fill me with guilt when I think of what they have done on my behalf. Being exposed to exploding artillery and seeing team members injured, I can't even begin to imagine the mental as well as the physical stresses!
   
   The ways that they prepared for their deployment made me not hate commute traffic as much. Reading about the weight that they have to carry in their packs made me appreciate the weight of my tool-bag at work.
   
   Some may say that they expected more excitement, or it wasn't well written... but I say... I'm sure that some things had to be cut out and there is no added fluff just for the sake of excitement or book sales. I LOVED THIS BOOK! This is a real account, from a real man, that was part of a special unit. He shared his story with us, and everything he did there, WAS FOR US!
   
   All I can offer is a humble "THANK YOU!" to Master Sergeant Zapata, and all the other dedicated souls that have defended my freedom.



3. A great book to read if you have ever wondered what is really happening over there with the war on terror. Zapata gives us all insight as to what these soldiers go through day by day. Brings heightened respect to those who are there. Detailed information on what these soldiers face and the little time that they have to react to any situation. I picked up this book and couldnt put it down, how refreshing to have the truth.



4. I loved this book! It was a real story, written by a real special forces soldier. It was compelling, and had me hooked. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in what the war is like from a soldiers perspective.



5. This is a compelling first-hand account of what our soldiers are facing in the War on Terror. It is both entertaining and emotional. The book is written from the heart and is a must-read for anyone hoping to gain a better of what it is like for our troops.

5 comments about Dinner with Mugabe: The Untold Story of a Freedom Fighter who Became a Tyrant.

1. With apologies to the above reviewer for twisting her review title, I agree with portions of the review. I found the book seemed to be an attempted psychoanalysis of Mugabe. Perhaps this would be a good idea by a professional psychiatrist or social worker but not from a journalist. For example at one point the author condemns Mugabe's immaturity for ordering his cabinet members to wear suits and ties to their meetings rather than t-shirts and other casual wear. The author states that due to Mugabe's immaturity and insecurity that he cannot be innovative and allow "traditional African wear" (combat fatigues and t-shirts!) I would assume that Mugabe only wanted to emphasize the serious nature of a cabinet meeting. When the author interviews Mugabe she does ask good questions relevant to the changes that have taken place over Mugabe's reign in Zimbabawe but again, in addition to quoting his remarks she then psychoanalyzes nearly every utterance. There are many other examples like this in the book.
   
   Other than that repeating annoyance the book was quite good. Heidi Holland has constructed a biography of Mugabe that provides insight into his seemingly nonsensical change from a visionary, pro-democratic leader into his current destructive tyranny. The book was filled with information on what caused Mugabe's change over the years and contains many interviews with relatives, co-workers, mentors, political friends and enemies and I felt it was a very worthwhile read for that reason despite the psychoanalytical shortcomings.



2. A great account of Rhodesian politics and Robert Mugabe's era. Fascinating to read the events of the past and know that he's still in power - the story is still being told.
   
   The author's approach of analyzing Mugabe's behavior, uncovering & discussing the 'motivators' that are the root cause of his acts, is very well done.



3. The writer starts with a mysterious dinner that she was not invited to in her own home. The mystery guest is Mugabe prior to his leap to power. Holland also states how she nearly lost her job by putting Mugabe's photo on the front page of a magazine that she was writing for. She ends with a recount of her last interview with Mugabe with only several questions that she asked him (including "Did you ever love someone?" His response was, "I must have. I have married twice.")
   
   Facts are missing in "Dinner with Mugabe." "Mugabe" by Martin Meredith outlines the facts behind the corruption of Mugabe's administration, including within his family. Holland talks (repeatedly and over many, many pages) about her accusation that Mugabe began to lose his moral compass when his first wife died-even though he had already had two children by his current wife when his first wife died.
   
   It's a poorly written book with very hard hitting few facts that you couldn't get from various websites.
   
   Save your money and buy "Mugabe" by Martin Meredith



4. This is a very interesting book and a poignant reminder of how Zimbabwe could have been a success story. The author is familiar with the history through her life as a radical and supporter of black rule in Rhodesia when she, and her husband a surgeon, lived in Ian Smith's outlaw colony. She interviews people who knew Mugabe well and then corrects their misrepresentations from her own knowledge. This is a very valuable technique and, with a man as private as Mugabe has always been, is as close as we will get to the inside story.
   
   Robert Mugabe was a studious child, educated by Jesuits and abandoned by his father at an early age. His mother, something of a mystic, was always convinced that he had a special destiny. The author describes Mugabe's mother, Bona, as "a cold, stern nun of a mother."(page 7) He has been emotionally crippled all his life although, with his first wife Sally, a flamboyant and colorful Ghanaian teacher, he had a loving and loyal marriage. She is described by some of the interviewees as warm but by others as imperious and corrupt.
   
   There is a very interesting interview with Mary Churchill Soames, Winston Churchill's younger daughter and wife of the last colonial governor of Rhodesia. Lord Soames became very close to Mugabe who, in a moment of truth just before the election of 1980, which put him in power, asked Soames to stay on for a lengthy transition period to help rule the country. "And Mugabe then said, 'I want you to stay because I need to be able to talk to somebody. I don't know anything about governing a country and none of my people do either.'" Soames told him that it would be impossible and Mugabe was on his own. When Lord Soames died, Mugabe and his wife arrived at Lady Soames' home uninvited to attend his funeral. This was an example of the rare personal empathy that Mugabe could establish with certain people.
   
   There is also a chapter on Denis Norman, a wealthy white farmer who had no interest in politics but who was prevailed upon by Mugabe to take several ministries to solve problems created by incompetent members of his cabinet. Here was another white man trusted by Mugabe, who insisted on European dress by all his ministers and who emulated English manners and education. In fact, the author comments that his education policies (similar to those in India, in my opinion) left the country with too many white collar workers clamoring for government jobs and not enough auto mechanics and other technical trades.
   
   Unfortunately, in another of the disastrous mistakes made by almost everyone in Zimbabwe, the white voters supported former dictator Ian Smith's party in the legislature, enraging Mugabe who had actually treated them quite fairly, even allowing Smith, who had imprisoned him, to live freely in the country and to seek office and serve in parliament. This was a serious mistake, compounded by Mugabe who then dismissed Denis Norman from his post as Agriculture Minister. He told Norman that the whites had chosen to treat him as a black and he would reciprocate, although he later called on Norman again and again to solve problems.
   
   The story continues to 2000, when Mugabe was losing his power to a new generation and was besieged by "war veterans" while he watched white farmers donate checks to his political opponent on television. The result was the disastrous occupation of the commercial farms and the descent of Zimbabwe to ruin. It seems to me, after reading this book, that Mugabe is no more in control of his country than is Assad of Syria. Both are basically run by warlords and secret police.
   
   The book is excellent and the lesson to me is that there were many opportunities for a happy, or at least happier, ending. Mugabe is an educated man, if emotionally stunted, and he did reach out to some of his white opponents for help early on. Some helped him and became friends. Many of the white residents foolishly voted for his enemies and fed his paranoia. I don't know what the chances for success in Zimbabwe were originally, but it seems that everything that could go wrong, did so. This is a very well written account of what happened. He is a monster now, but he wasn't always.



5. Although Heidi Holland met Mugabe only a couple of times, she still provides some good interviews and insights into Mugabe. He has unfortunately proved to be one of the worst leaders of the past couple of decades. Look at the results of his presidency--100,000% inflation, massive food shortages and an 80% unemployment rate. Zimbabwe is an embarrassment to Africa and it didn't have to be that way. Here's a detailed critique of what went wrong, where it went wrong and who is responsible. Mugabe is an intriguing figure because he began his career largely heralded by everyone as a freedom fighter like Nelson Mandela. To see how tragically it turned out, leaves many questions; it's a void Holland is clearly trying to fill.
   
   Holland writes well--the words are fluid and vivid and so it's easy to see how her years of reporting for the BBC, the Guardian and many other reputable news organizations has helped. The book is broken into 15 chapters with an index and bibliography for further reading. I do have one complaint, that I wish this were written by someone who had spent more time with Mugabe instead of relying mostly on interviews and a couple of brief encounters with him.
   
   However, I am glad this book was written and even more glad that it was published in America! I heard Heidi interviewed on the BBC and was dismayed that the book was available for sale only in South Africa. (Note: The book was rushed into production here so the British grammar remains. IE: magnetised instead of magnetized.) Yes, we are interested in the subject here too and are horrified by the still unfolding tragedy of Zimbabwe. If only there was something more we could do to help, but what?

5 comments about The Mind of War: John Boyd and American Security.

1. While not written in the same style as Coram's "Boyd: the Fighter Pilot who changed the art of war," Dr. Hammond's book fills the gap between the mythology of Boyd (Coram's book) and the void of nothingness (OODA training provided by the US Air Force in professional military education). Hammond's book gives a sense of scholarly study to Col Boyd's work, without the bluster of personal anecdotes. Don't get me wrong - I have loved almost every text I have read on Col Boyd, personal and professional... but for usefulness in military strategy study, Hammond's book is head and shoulders above the rest.
   
   Let's be honest - We're not going to become "Acolytes" by reading Boyd biographies - those positions are already taken. But understanding the difficulties Col Boyd had in trying to change the art of war and military establishment, we can open our minds to the realm of possibility... that everything is linked, and we might influence the next generation's John Boyd.
   
   Shame on the United States Air Force for neglecting Col Boyd's contributions. If anyone needs a reminder about mavericks and warfare prophets, think of General Billy Mitchell; he was court martialed for his ideas on airpower and is now lauded in the halls of Air University.
   
   Bolster your Boyd Background - buy Hammond's book, Coram's book, and download Boyd's print works from http://www.d-n-i.net



2. I have read both of the more well known books about John Boyd, Grant Hammonds book, the "Mind of War" and Robert Coram's book, "Boyd, the Fighter Pilot who Changed the Art of War."
   
   Both are excellent works and I would suggest that if you are serious about studying John Boyd and his theories, first read Robert Coram's book which goes into more detail about John Boyd's life then if you are still interested, and you should be after reading Mr. Coram's book, I would move on to Grant Hammonds book which goes into more detail about John Boyd's theories of warfare.
   
   All of the theories can be applied to almost any aspect of life, be it business, politics or just dealing with the general public and difficult people.



3. I was hoping for a better description of Boyd's ideas and less time spent on his life. This guy revolutionized some major fields, but the book doesn't really tell me the guts of the concepts. Disappointing.



4. If you want to change the world for the better or just keep your little corner of it from getting worse, then you'll want to read this book. It's what Boyd discovered about how conflicts are fought and won. Sadly, although he flew in two wars, most of Boyd's clashes were fought within the US military rather than with some foreign foe. As a result, one of the best USAF fighter pilots who ever lived is better remembered by the Marine Corps, where he is a hero, than by his own branch.
   
   I'm not going spend time praising Boyd. The fact that I finished this book with a list of books and articles to read is praise enough. Instead, I'm going to offer a useful corrective to Boyd the man, by introducing someone else you should read.
   
   That someone is G. K. Chesterton, an Englishman with a maverick, warrior personality every bit as fierce and unyielding as Boyd's. On June 1, 1941, on one of the darkest days in World War II, when the island of Crete had fallen to the Germans, leaving 17,000 British soldiers as prisoners of war, the Times of London, defiantly put these lines from Chesterton's "The Ballad of the White Horse" on its front page:
   
   I tell you naught for your comfort,
   Yea naught for your desire,
   Save that the sky grows darker yet
   And the sea rises higher.
   
   Like Boyd, Chesterton understood that how we fight determines if we win or lose. He shared Boyd's contempt for those who believe that bigger is better. In a 1909 at the height of England's fears about new German battleships, Chesterton wrote precisely what Boyd would later say about fighter aircraft.
   
   "Common-sense tells a man that indefinite development in one direction must in practice over-reach itself... If you perceive your enemy plunging on blindly in a particular direction, the real thing to do, if you have any spirit and invention, is to calculate the weakness in his course and advance yourself in some other direction. You ought to take advantage of his infatuation, not to imitate it; you ought to surprise his plan of campaign, not copy it laboriously. If he is building very big ships, the best thing you could do would probably be to build small ones; ships lighter, quicker, and more capable of navigating rivers."
   
   But Chesterton understood something that Boyd never learned, an aspect of warfare that's so often forgotten today that the very word for it seems quaint--chivalry. Perhaps his best explanation of chivalry came in a 1906 article explaining why the Europe of his day dominated the world. Again Chesterton described a concept dear to Boyd, the power that comes from an ability to think new thoughts and imagine new ways of acting.
   
   "The elements that make Europe upon the whole the most humanitarian civilisation are precisely the elements that make it upon the whole the strongest. For the power which makes a man able to entertain a good impulse is the same as that which enables him to make a good gun; it is imagination."
   
   Boyd thought like a fighter pilot. He would have us understand a man in order to destroy him, knowing that a foe who's blown out of the air will never trouble you again. As a writer, Chesterton had a different perspective. He believed that understanding leads to restraint, writing in that same article: "For if you do not understand a man you cannot crush him. And if you do understand him, very probably you will not."
   
   Chesterton saw conflict in broad terms. When he clashed with H. G. Wells over the latter's infatuation with a World State or with Bernard Shaw over pacifism, he took the time to understand what each was saying. His criticisms of the dangers and weakness of international institutions are among the best ever written. His description of the pacifist personality is so accurate that it applies with near perfection to today's pacifists. But having gotten into the mind of his opponent, he recognized in him a fellow human being. With few exceptions, he retained the respect and even friendship of his foes. Only when one crossed a critical line, demonstrating that without great pain he was beyond redemption, would Chesterton seek to crush him to prevent the evil he intended. What was for Boyd the rule, destroying anyone who disagree with him, was for Chesterton the rare exception. Boyd needs to be tempered with Chesterton
   
   In short, I'd suggest that, as you read what Boyd said about war and conflict, you also read what Chesterton wrote. You'll accomplish a lot more and suffer far less grief if you do. And as you might suspect, I wrote a book on that topic, a collection of Chesterton's best articles on war and peace paying particular attention to his warnings about Germany. And when the necessity arose, Chesterton could be as tough-minded as Boyd. Chesterton used all his powers as a writer to crush those ideas in the German mind that Nazism would later exploit.
   
   --Michael W. Perry, editor of Chesterton on War and Peace: Battling the Ideas and Movements that Led to Nazism and World War II



5. The OODA loop is an affirmation of my theorized belief that all we do in life follows a pattern. The successes and the failures of our endeavors is relative to the degree of our adherence to the said pattern and our familiarity with the task. God Bless the late Col. John Boyd.

2 comments about Heinrich Himmler: The SS, Gestapo, His Life and Career.

1. A fascinating insight into the mind of the madman Himmler. A must read for any student of World War II. Part of the incredible Himmler / Goebbels / Goering series by Roger Manvell & Heinrich Fraenkel. Great book.



2. I read this book as part of a class I took on Nazism. This is truly an engrossing account of the life and times of Himmler. This is the tale of how one young boy can turn into one of the Nazi leaders, and head of the SS. This was one of the best books I read in my course, and best books I've read period. It is informative and entertaining, pick it up.

5 comments about Sagittarius Rising.

1. This book is well written, interesting to read even if you don't know anything about airplanes, and informative about history of first world war airwar. I think it was worth the money.



2. Mostly, Sagittarius Rising is a "War" book of interest to aviation and history buffs. But, the writing is so interesting and imaginative, readers without deep passion for planes or period are likely to start...and not stop until the last page.
   
   Lewis writes with a rare gift for pictures and even structure. Readers of pleasure will appreciate the work like it were a good meal. Historians, however, may find Sagittarius a little light on details, but the book's credibility and authority seems solid.
   
   If you're reading this review, you obviously have an interest in the arena - Sagittarius Rising is an excellent seat.



3. This account of WWI aviation is a unique version not found in other books from this time period. It gives an inside look into the thoughts and feelings of a combat aviator during the infant days of aerial combat. A must have for any WWI aviation buff. I truely enjoy reading this book.



4. The author covers many different aspects of being an English WW I pilot. He ranges from the limitations of the WW I airplanes (the wings fall off!), rapid tech advancements during the war (machine gun interupter gears), to being young, to the stress of combat, to views on stopping wars, etc. Pleasant read and highly recommended to anyone interested in air warfare in WW I. He does go off on little preachy tangents sometimes, but they are short and fit into the overall book just fine. This is a personal story, so don't expect a broader picture of the war.



5. If you want to read a book which perfectly describes the atmosphere and meaning of flying in the first air war, then this is it.

5 comments about Drowning in the Desert: A JAG's Search for Justice in Iraq.

1. When I started reading this book, I couldn't figure out how the authors were going to fill all those pages with the story of one more court case coming out of the Iraq war. But as the characters' stories as well as the complexities of Iraq began to surface, the pages seemed to fly by--before I knew it I had turned the final page, surprised. DROWNING IN THE DESERT is an important addition to the historical record and our collective understanding of the Iraq War. But sadly, there are shelves and shelves of books on every angle of the war going unnoticed, largely due to the fatigue of the topic. Hopefully, this book will find it's way to the surface.
   
   [Bias alert: I know many of the people in this book and call most of them friends.]



2. One woman's honest account of her experiences as a soldier in Iraq reveals more truth about the War on Terror than any "expert" commentary I have read so far. Her story contains no self-aggrandizing, no political commentary, no pontificating on the right or wrong way to wage a War on Terror. It is a window into her life and her personal battle to help her Army retain its honor, while facing a faceless enemy without any.
   You can't help but feel strongly about the message contained within the pages of this book. I've promoted it to everyone I work with- soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and civilians. We hear it a lot, especially on Veteran's Day, but our nation's military is like no other. Our fighting men and women are noble, honorable individuals who face difficult decisions everyday. It's taken many years, but we're finally recognizing the true power of the "human factor" in this war- on both sides. Soldiers like CAPT Gembara recognized it from the beginning.
   Vivian and Deborah have an engaging style that immerses you in the story and does not let you loose until the conclusion. I felt so involved in the narrative that I earned a few curious stares in Starbucks when I burst out laughing to myself, then choked up and sobbed only 30 minutes later. It's not only a refreshing, insightful account of the war, it's a well-written, riveting drama that anyone would enjoy.



3. This is, hands down, the best book I have read all year. It has best seller written all over it. The author takes us on an enthralling journey through Iraq, through the losses and stress and everyday life of a soldier in a war-torn country. But it is so more than that-- it is also the story of a woman finding the courage to stand up for what is right, even when it means she may lose everything but her own conscience. I loved this book so much that I am hosting it for this month's book club.



4. The book is the product of a job well done. It is very interesting and integring. Once I began the book it was hard to put it down. I wanted to pick it up and continue reading at every opportunity.
   
   The writer tells the story of the trials, tribulations, and frustrations she encountered in properly executing her responsibilities as a JAG officer. She does it in such a manner that keeps your concentration and arouses your curiousity as to what is going to happen next. It is an excellent story and holds your attention and interest until the end of the book. I highly recommend it.



5. In the context of a pivotal Presidential Election, it has been difficult for me to put into words my feelings on the few short months I spent on the banks of the Tigris River with the 4th Infantry Division. More important than Vivian's excellent retelling of her year with "boots on the ground" in Iraq, is the true significance of her service and that of the 700,000 of us who went to Iraq. I am flattered to have been a part of the history this book captures. I am even more proud to have taken part in yet another example of America delivering democracy where before there was tyranny. My year in Iraq was the greatest year of my life and the 3 months I spent with 3rd Brigade Combat Team provided some of the most searing and proudest of those memories. All I can say is: Well Done Viv.
   
   1-8 Infantry was filled with men (and a few women) who were truly the tip of the spear. In Septemer 2003, I became one of their "Area of Operations'" Civil Affairs Captains. 1-8's efforts should not be sullied because America's overall strategy was originally flawed. Lieutenant Colonel Sassamon did the best he could with the limited tools that he was provided. Perhaps by the time, "Big Army" equipped him with my Civil Affairs Team, it was too late to win hearts and minds. I do not happen to agree but I do understand. Then again, I did not lose my soldiers, get 2-3 hours of sleep a night, work 7 days a week, 365 days of that year and have responsibility to secure terrain. I will always admire the love, courage, dedication and raw strength, that Sassamon exhibited towards his soldiers.
   
   I was not one of those men for Sassamon nor did I need to be. He and I worked counter to one another it seemed. I asked for prisoners' names to be published so that families could at least know their loved ones were alive. I was made a mockery. I needed support to build the village council in Al Buheshma. Sassoman declared a "fatwa" on those very same villagers when I brokered an event with Mayor Shauket to bridge the gap one afternoon. He wasn't joking. He even arrested Mayor Shauket leaving him penned up on rocks surrounded by concertina wire. The intelligence I reviewed showed one report that questioned the Mayor's loyalty from the early summer. Here I worked with the man for months when suddenly he was arrested without my input.
   
   What incredible insight from the JAG's perch this book provides. From Captain Paliwoda's tragic demise, to the unmatched performance of his two Lieutenants, Larson and Hudson, from prosecuting and winning the first court-martial in Iraq, to the investigation of the Army's "golden boy," and finally because the work of a Brigade JAG in 2003-04 is now the shared responsibility of a Major and a Captain, this account demonstrates what the Army had not learned.
   
   But we did learn the lessons. Although General Tommy Franks, Rumsfeld and Powell failed to properly plan for the post-war effort, few soldiers will tell you we made a mistake to finish what we started in 1990 and neither would Captain Vivian Gembara I guess. My Air Force brother spent multiple tours in the hot sands of Saudi Arabia through the Clinton 1990s enforcing a "no-fly zone." Men and women died doing so.
   
   We won in Iraq, continue to win in Iraq, and they will have their 4th free election in Iraq, thanks to our military and Senator John McCain's leadership, vision, courage, and experience to lead us to victory! Every time politicians announce we fought the wrong war, they insult the families and the sacrifices of those who served.
   
   Upon becoming a Senator, Obama was wrong to undermine soldiers at war. Hagel was also wrong, Kerry was wrong, Hillary was wrong and Biden was wrong. Quitters and fear-mongerers. Once you make a commitment of this nature to the Iraqis and America and its military families, you do what is right. You find a way to win. Remember this was a bipartisan vote. Iraq now has a budget surplus. They have all ethnic groups, religions and women in their parliament and State Legislative Councils.
   
   What 1-8 experienced was that we started with the wrong strategy. Worse than that, a defeatist Congress and media did a very good job of convincing America that we were wrong to invade. Throughout my deployment in 2003, the media reported on the civil war there. It was a lie. I was there and there was no civil war. In a few areas, Sunnis fought Sunnis and Shi'a fought Shi'a for dominance but that hardly defines a civil war. Across ethnicities, there was largely peaceful rivalries.
   
   Before nine months had passed in 2003, Democrats were racing each other to see who could distinguish themself as the most anti-war to secure the Democrat Presidential nomination. Shameful and Disgraceful. These same Democrats voted for it, with the exception of Edwards. No wonder Americans don't support this war. I don't blame the public. I blame so-called "leaders" who knew better but exploited the conflict for political gain. Biden accused Obama of this himself when he was running against him for the nomination.
   
   Vivian and Mike, Deb and your families, thank you for your sacrifice and thank you for doing what I wish I could do by publishing this masterpiece. I am proud and unworthy of mention. From what I know of the Gembara's, America should have many more of them.
   
   P.S. Colonel Gembara, thanks for the foresight to equip Vivian with those Vietnam-era flak vests. I lined the floors and draped them over the windows of my soft-skinned HMMWV. Hell, she had dozens of them.

5 comments about Warriors: An Infantryman's Memoir of Vietnam.

1. There is no doubt that this person was there and went thrught it. Brought back a lot of memories both good and bad. Was with the 1st Infantry Division in 68-69 and knew a lot of the places he was talking about. Very good book.



2. I read this book in an effort to remember my tour of service in Vietnam back in 1969. Being a member of the 199th I wanted to see if it would re-awaken memories. I found it extremely enjoyable.. well written.. and a very good book. For anyone who wants to know what Vietnam was like I recommend it highly. Fast reading, engrossing, and kept me flipping pages throughout.



3. I have read better books on Vietnam. A good book, but not a must read.



4. 
   A real personal and up close look at what Warriors go through when fighting in military combat. It has often been said that,"War is Hell" and this book comes as close as possible to describing what battle in an infantry Company is like.
   The author was a highly trained soldier ,ready to use his skills and everything else he could muster;to lead his men into battle ,defeat the enemy and get as many of his men home safely as possible.
   He spent 9 months ,fighting battles in Vietnam,in 1968 during the bloodiest months of the war. While this was going on, he was totally aware of the politics of the war that was being fought out in the anti-war protests in the streets and on the campuses of America.He was also fully aware of the politics that were also being played over the war.
   The author was not only a dedicated hero,but he is able to convey to the reader what it was like to be there.As strong a person as he was,we can see that a human being can take only so much stress of battle when he is in a position that his last breath may only be an instant away...and to be subjected to this for 9 months.
   There are endless ways to look a the whole business of war;but to the people who sacrifice their all for the freedom of others;we owe them our greatest gratitude, thanks,and respect.
   When you talk about service to one's country;Robert Tonsetic shows what it really means.



5. This seemed to be one of the best Vietnam memoirs I have read. It was detailed and gripping. I read it in one sitting.

5 comments about Napoleon: The Path to Power.

1. Highly recommended for two types of readers:
   
   1) For students of Napoleon, this is an extremely important contribution. Dwyer fleshes out the transition of Napoleon the Corsican youth to the most powerful man in France in 1799 as First Consul; a path not even expected late into 1799 given Emmanuel Joseph Sieyès, the person that solicited Napoleon's support, expected that designation. Dywer's most important contribution to this ear is to strip away much of the propaganda that surrounds Napoleon to reach the true character of Napoleon; much of this propaganda was created by Napoleon himself to serve his political ambitions, which leads into the second niche Dwyer brilliantly services. . .
   
   2) "Path to Power" serves as an excellent analysis of political ambition acted upon by a successful military leader. Military leaders who have political ambitions along with political scientists trying to understand how political capital can be developed by military leaders are both well-served.
   
   The sometimes incredibly detailed deconstruction of previously reported falsehoods make this book a difficult read for general leaders who are probably better served with a more general biography of Napoleon; though I would argue to wait until other historians who write narratives of Napoleon have a chance to develop a work using the findings Dwyer lays out in this much more accurate portrayal of the young Napoleon and his rise to power.



2. I am a relative newcomer to Napoleon, having read only Paul Johnson's short biography in the Penguin Lives series, so I can't really assess Dwyer's arguments against recent scholarship and historiography, except to say that he supports his case with an impressive amount of research. Is the book written with the grace of David McCullough and Edmund Morris or even, to use a more academic example, James McPherson? No. But this is a readable academic-type biography, certainly worthy of the Yale imprimatur, and it whets the appetite for more about this imposing figure of European and world history.



3. 
   Most historians have to chose between writing a readable narrative or one that will be heavily documented. Dwyer doean't have this problem His writing is able straddle both styles. He has created a readable, heavily documented history of Napoleon's rise to power. I don't know the literature of this period, but the book has the feel that it is definitive to date.
   
   While the text is not on the page turning level of Alexander Hamilton, The Most Famous Man in America: The Biography of Henry Ward Beecher (the first 2/3) or Diamonds, Gold, and War: The British, the Boers, and the Making of South Africa, it is engaging and keeps the interest of the general reader.
   
   Most interesting to me were the Italian and Egyptian campaigns, and Napoleon's relationships with his parents, siblings and wife.
   
   One of the overriding themes is Napoleon's propaganda which certainly sets the stage for what we have today. There were no TV crews in Egypt so Napoleon had a blank slate to write on. He could send dispatches to his brothers' newspapers, and who c/would dispute him? He could march his troops, triumphantly into Paris, who's to know it wasn't a total victory?
   
   Dwyer assembles a lot of information and I look forward to what I presume will be volumes 2, 3 and maybe even 4.



4. In "Napoleon: The Path To Power," Philip Dwyer successfully brings to life the first three decades in the existence of Napoleon Bonaparte. Readers who have a pre-existing knowledge of Bonaparte and his time will be the ones who will benefit the most from reading Dwyer's book. To his credit, Dwyer neither glorifies nor demonizes Bonaparte.
   
   Dwyer clearly explores the contradictions in the character of Bonaparte. Bonaparte started as a Corsican nationalist, then morphed into a servant of the French Revolution, and ended up as an imperialist who became supremely confident in his own personal destiny. Bonaparte transformed himself into what he has been remembered for because of his unmatched exploitation of the opportunities that he saw before him. Dwyer also shows with much conviction the active role that Bonaparte played in his own mythmaking.
   
   Although Bonaparte was talented, intelligent, and passionate, he was also a ruthless man. Bonaparte regarded people as pawns in his political and military calculations, to get rid of if they could no longer be useful. As Dwyer observes with much pertinence, that callousness towards the lives of others is not unusual in the character of a leading public personality. The more power a public figure amasses, the greater the indifference he / she will often display.
   
   To summarize, "Napoleon: The Path To Power" is a nice addition to the library of any person fond of history.



5. This is a book for the serious Buonapartiste - particularly his secret detractors. The Sorbonne-educated historian has given us PART ONE of his work - a work of over 600 pages - and I found the deluge of historical materials to be both overwhelming and deftly handled, the resolution to this paradox being that Dwyer is guilty of what he demonstrates behind Napoleon's ascent: a clumsy spin doctoring of the "facts."
   
   This also is the reason I find fault with the very conception of the book: we long have reconciled ourselves to remaining trapped within the vortices of history, myth, and cultural creationism when it comes to this particular biographical subject. Unable to break the historian's taboo of psychoanalytic consideration of its subject, this book ultimately is a doomed enterprise as yet another attempt at "understanding" the man.
   
   I wait for the biography that tells us something new about how the man's context, the history/myth/culture that he found himself in, struggled against, and, in this case, to great extent, found itself transformed in his wake. Our obsession with the little giant certainly would favor this approach.
   
   Peter Glidden, Ph.D.