Recent-Iraq historians and "old soldiers" will enjoy this 2009-06-23

Reviewer: G. Stelzenmuller

Books like "War Stories" will always get bummed up by the majority of reviews instinctively, simply because book reviewers tend to be loaded with those who dislike soldiers. The reader would be delighted, however, with how articulate and comprehensive Oliver North presents his story of "Gulf War II."

The first three-quarters of the book details the immediate lead-up to the conflict (but published just before Saddam's capture), and the author's assignment to Iraq by Fox News. He tells the story mostly of the path he was able to follow during the first part of the Iraq War. Along the way North does an excellent job of telling us about the soldier's life and point of view, about ageless things: the eternal confusion, dirt and sand, mortal dangers, deaths, abrupt changes of situation. Also there is the camaraderie, endurance of spirit, dedication, professionalism, tolerance, superb training, and pride which military persons have best experienced. Above all, North is pointedly modest and temperate with the story he tells.

The last part of the book gives a longer history and description of Iraq and the surrounding region, covering the 20th century more or less. Professional historians will likely turn up their pedantic noses with what they read here (if they bothered), but the regular reader will be delighted with the author's non-pedantic summary. Above all, North makes the subject interesting, and surely will entice us to do more reading later. Get the book.

War Stories Operation Iraqi Freedom 2008-01-27

Reviewer: Sonia Soto

I like how this book describes the men and women serving our country and the sacrifices they volunteer to make. I am very PROUD of our military.

I would definitely recommend this book.

Excellent stories by a Marine about our troops in combat 2006-06-27

Reviewer: Lodge2

This book is a series of snapshots in time covering the exploits of Marines and Soldiers in combat. Since it is written by a Marine, the stories are told from their perspective as opposed to being filtered by the media.

It is a positive portrayal of the events in Iraq. Although the author does insert some political statements into his narrative, his views are not all that different from many of the troops he writes about.

If you support the troops, or know one, and you want to understand what their life is like...you will love this book. If you do not support the troops and/or the only one you have ever met was an actor playing one on a Hollywood screen set...you will hate this book.

Great 2005-05-02

Reviewer: Randy Given

This is a great book. It gets you right in with the action and keeps you reading. What is amazing is that it is real reality and not fiction. Lots of little details are thrown in at the appropriate times, for information and education. Really easy to read and also easy to read in small sections at a time.

Great read 2004-10-16

Reviewer: Marine wife

Amazing first hand view of our Marines and soldiers in the field. Easy read (even for those without military experience). God bless our American heroes!