Luzon

by Steven Goldsberry

This smashing novel of love and combat in the war-torn Philippines is based on a true story. Authors Malcolm Champlin (who fought in many of these battles) and Steven Goldsberry bring a rare mix of authenticity and glorious writing to this nearly forgotten and utterly harrowing chapter of World War II.

8 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1997

Reviews

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a Wow. . .it left me speechless. I felt like I was there, in the heat and the horror of Luzon in the Philippines. The brutality of the war waged on that island and the barbarism of the Japanese is incomprehensible, and made visceral by the author, Steven Goldsberry. The battles--which are endless--are interwoven beautifully with mythology, Philippine culture, memorable characters and a great love story. One might think that the battles of WWII, happening 75 years ago, are outdated, have no merit, no bearing on our lives today. But when you read Primitivo's Credo, written sometime in the 40's or 50's, it seems all the more meaningful today, with nationalism, racism, inequality more prevalent. He says we are "planetary citizens," calling on all presidents to be "collaborators and voices for mankind. . .who have the strength to provide for others less able." There are great lessons to be learned from this powerful book. I highly recommend it.