The War

by Deborah Chiel

A Southern family comes of age in the wake of the Vietnam War and their soldier father's absence, and come to terms with the changes in him and in themselves upon his return. Original. Movie tie-in.

1 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published November 1, 1994

Reviews

[Jasmin Kae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm already 25 years old but reading this classic children book give me enormous wisdom that I can always apply to my everyday life. I tried my best not to shed my tears on some parts of the book. The story revolves around family, friendship, and conflicts that will make us realize we can "lose the battle but still win the war".

[Addy · Rating 5 out of 5]

With The War, I went in 100% blind. It was one of my dad's old books that he gave to my sister! The Spinny Wheel of Reading Decisions decided this book was my next read, so I obliged. And, it ended up being a 5 out of 5 star read!

This was an older book, and it takes place in a different time period. I know things were different then, but the blatant use of slurs is always a bit jarring at first. It wasn't constant, and they made it into a teaching lesson in the story which was a nice touch! It also slightly contained racism, PTSD (and the mental health surrounding it), misogyny, fatphobia, and bullying. It definitely irked me at times, but I realize that it realistically portrays how people may have acted and thought back then!

When I tell you, I did NOT expect to end up crying! The dad died, his last words to his children were beyond sweet, and how the children reacted and were affected was sad. On top of that, they got the house the dad bid on. The one he had planned and hoped to make a new life with his family there. That did not help the tears. I was a GONER yall.

Let's be real, The War is not a book I would typically choose to read for myself! However, I REALLY ended up enjoying it! I'm sorry I doubted it. This is a prime example of why they say not to judge a book by its cover! Take a chance and try something new!