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Lava #2
From Baghdad to America: Life Lessons from a Dog Named Lava
Lieutenant Colonel Jay Kopelman won the hearts of readers everywhere with his moving story of adopting an abandoned puppy named Lava from a hellish corner of Iraq. He opened the door for other soldiers to bring dogs home, and in From Baghdad to America, Kopelman once again leads the pack with his observations on the emotional repercussions of war.Here, for the first time, Kopelman holds nothing back as he responds to the question, “Why did you save a dog instead of a person?” The answer reveals much about his inner demons—and about the bigger picture of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He talks about what it’s like to return to the States and examines the shocking statistics to come out of Depression, suicide, alcohol abuse, and broken relationships are at record highs for the men and women who serve there. Kopelman credits Lava with helping him to endure combat and the pain of war, as well as helping him deal with the surprising difficulties of returning to everyday life. Civilians have a hard time understanding what being a Marine means, and the adjustment to living among them is hard for these soldiers. This book attempts to shed light on that for all readers.
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Published October 13, 2008
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
February 17, 2013
The time not to become a father is eighteen years before a war.
-E.B. White
This was an inspiring follow up to (From Baghdad, With Love: A Marine, the War, and a Dog Named Lava), tracing Jay Kopelman and his transplanted dog Lava’s transition back to civilian life in the US. Unlike the first book this is more about the man than the dog. We witness Kopelman struggle here with problems that many returning veterans face including anger management and control issues. In Kopelman’s case it’s through his dog (and under a pretext of research for this book) that he’s finally able to admit to having PTSD.
I enjoyed the first book so much and often wondered what became of Jay and his rescue dog upon their return to America so I was thrilled to be allowed a glimpse back into their lives here. FBTA is a short read and I enjoyed it despite the fact that at times it felt more like an extended epilogue than an actual novel.
There wasn’t really a whole lot of substance here, interspaced with letters from assorted military, each telling their own stories of dogs that influenced them and how they tried (usually without success) to get them back to America, copies of the code of conduct, step by step instructions on how to don a field protective mask along with several other pages of military rules and regulations and 50 pages of appendages at the end. He also does a fair amount of well, for lack of a better word ranting but I guess he’s earned that right. Actually we get very little insight into Jay’s personal life at all (which again as the author is his right) but I would have appreciated a little more than just randomly reading that he’s married and then suddenly has a year old son.
Lava does continue to influence Jay throughout, being the one responsible for leading him to the woman he marries and ultimately forcing Kopelman to address his own PTSD through his behavioral problems. I would say this is any interesting and touching read, nowhere near as engaging as the first book but probably an important and relatable piece of work for returning veterans.
In regards to Lava’s own PTSD, and don’t get me wrong I’m not saying that he doesn’t have genuine issues but Kopelman states “that to keep Lava balanced he has to keep him on a schedule, avoid surprises (like the cable guy dropping by) and make sure Lava is eating well, sleeping and exercising because if he doesn’t everybody pays” Well I’m sorry but this is the standard for all dogs. My golden retriever has had a pretty perfect life but he still goes crazy if his life isn’t on a routine, and if he misses a walk, look the hell out. He also doesn’t appreciate strange, unannounced cable guys on the property. This is just normal dog behaviour, but whatever I’m glad seeing through Lava’s eyes enabled Kopelman to focus on himself. Cheers
348jb35
-E.B. White
This was an inspiring follow up to (From Baghdad, With Love: A Marine, the War, and a Dog Named Lava), tracing Jay Kopelman and his transplanted dog Lava’s transition back to civilian life in the US. Unlike the first book this is more about the man than the dog. We witness Kopelman struggle here with problems that many returning veterans face including anger management and control issues. In Kopelman’s case it’s through his dog (and under a pretext of research for this book) that he’s finally able to admit to having PTSD.
I enjoyed the first book so much and often wondered what became of Jay and his rescue dog upon their return to America so I was thrilled to be allowed a glimpse back into their lives here. FBTA is a short read and I enjoyed it despite the fact that at times it felt more like an extended epilogue than an actual novel.
There wasn’t really a whole lot of substance here, interspaced with letters from assorted military, each telling their own stories of dogs that influenced them and how they tried (usually without success) to get them back to America, copies of the code of conduct, step by step instructions on how to don a field protective mask along with several other pages of military rules and regulations and 50 pages of appendages at the end. He also does a fair amount of well, for lack of a better word ranting but I guess he’s earned that right. Actually we get very little insight into Jay’s personal life at all (which again as the author is his right) but I would have appreciated a little more than just randomly reading that he’s married and then suddenly has a year old son.
Lava does continue to influence Jay throughout, being the one responsible for leading him to the woman he marries and ultimately forcing Kopelman to address his own PTSD through his behavioral problems. I would say this is any interesting and touching read, nowhere near as engaging as the first book but probably an important and relatable piece of work for returning veterans.
In regards to Lava’s own PTSD, and don’t get me wrong I’m not saying that he doesn’t have genuine issues but Kopelman states “that to keep Lava balanced he has to keep him on a schedule, avoid surprises (like the cable guy dropping by) and make sure Lava is eating well, sleeping and exercising because if he doesn’t everybody pays” Well I’m sorry but this is the standard for all dogs. My golden retriever has had a pretty perfect life but he still goes crazy if his life isn’t on a routine, and if he misses a walk, look the hell out. He also doesn’t appreciate strange, unannounced cable guys on the property. This is just normal dog behaviour, but whatever I’m glad seeing through Lava’s eyes enabled Kopelman to focus on himself. Cheers
348jb35
August 28, 2014
Don't be fooled, this book isn't really about a dog. It's about the weirdly defensive Marine who brought him home from Iraq and how that Marine is better than a: everyone who's never been in combat because we all watch reality tv and drive SUVs, apparently; and b: everyone else, because reasons. Although he, the Marine, has PTSD and hates therapy, he seems to be advising therapy for all other service members. Probably because he's so much better than they are, if he's aware that he needs help, they must already be on a ledge somewhere.
Anyway, there was a dog involved. But he already wrote a book about the dog, so maybe read that one. I don't know if it's better, I haven't read it. I just know that, other than a few pages about Lava getting hit by a car because Lt. Col. BTE apparently couldn't afford a leash to walk a skittish dog that was literally in a war zone three days ago* this is just another book about some dude's ego, packaged to sell with a cute puppy on the cover.
*Really. He took Lava out for a walk with no leash ON PURPOSE. Then chased the dog into the street when he bolted. And then made all kinds of misogynist assumptions about the woman who hit the dog. Because it was clearly all her fault, seeing as how she was driving an SUV and had obviously never been in combat. If she had been she'd be a better person, driving a smaller car or chasing dogs into the street herself. Or something like that.
Anyway, there was a dog involved. But he already wrote a book about the dog, so maybe read that one. I don't know if it's better, I haven't read it. I just know that, other than a few pages about Lava getting hit by a car because Lt. Col. BTE apparently couldn't afford a leash to walk a skittish dog that was literally in a war zone three days ago* this is just another book about some dude's ego, packaged to sell with a cute puppy on the cover.
*Really. He took Lava out for a walk with no leash ON PURPOSE. Then chased the dog into the street when he bolted. And then made all kinds of misogynist assumptions about the woman who hit the dog. Because it was clearly all her fault, seeing as how she was driving an SUV and had obviously never been in combat. If she had been she'd be a better person, driving a smaller car or chasing dogs into the street herself. Or something like that.
February 8, 2019
I have to agree with previous reviewers who were disappointed in the book not being so much about Lava as about Kopelman. I know the title says it’s about both their lives back in the States, but in that the book is very uneven-handed. In fact, there’s very little about Lava, who was the reason I picked up the book in the first place.
What made the book even harder to read was that the more I learned about Kopelman, the less I liked him. It didn’t help that the book starts out with him allowing a juvenile dog who’s had little training off-leash next to the street. And, no, it didn’t have anything to do with him not being a good person; it was more than he wasn’t a very good dog owner.
Things only got worse. It got sort of tiring, Kopelman’s obvious distain for those who haven’t served. And don’t even let them have an opinion about the war that doesn’t fall into line with his. Along with his constant describing of himself as bad-tempered, rigid, and judgmental, it got to be a bit much. It does sound as if therapy has done him some good, so hopefully it all worked out in the end.
What made the book even harder to read was that the more I learned about Kopelman, the less I liked him. It didn’t help that the book starts out with him allowing a juvenile dog who’s had little training off-leash next to the street. And, no, it didn’t have anything to do with him not being a good person; it was more than he wasn’t a very good dog owner.
Things only got worse. It got sort of tiring, Kopelman’s obvious distain for those who haven’t served. And don’t even let them have an opinion about the war that doesn’t fall into line with his. Along with his constant describing of himself as bad-tempered, rigid, and judgmental, it got to be a bit much. It does sound as if therapy has done him some good, so hopefully it all worked out in the end.
December 8, 2014
i read kopelman's first book, because i love animals and hearing rescue stories. this picks up where his last book left off. lava and he are both back in the stages trying to adjust to civilian life. kopelman's writing is honest, but it feels sophomoric at times. also, he uses a lot of rhetorical questions which can become annoying. i feel he gives real life solutions to problems soldiers face upon redeploying, but i felt the writing was just getting into the meat of the matter when the book ended.
June 6, 2013
In this sequel to his book From Baghdad With Love, Jay Kopelman describes his life with his dog, Lava, after arriving back in the United States. During his multiple deployments to Iraq, Lieutenant Colonel Kopelman was responsible for the men in his unit. Together they operated under enormous stress, participating in battles and firefights, often with horrific results. His sanity was preserved by interacting with Lava, a stray dog rescued near a combat zone. Upon their return to the States, both were dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Jay Kopelman's honest, sometimes humorous and sometimes heartbreaking memoir calls attention to the sacrifice our troops are making, and reminds us of the debt we owe to them--while they are serving and when they come home. In addition, he makes a compelling case for the humane treatment of the innocent animals who are caught up in combat zones through no fault of their own. The forward to this book is written by Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. It's well worth reading--and so are both of Kopelman's books.
October 6, 2012
This is a continuation of Jay Kopelman's first book: From Baghdad with Love. In that book, Jay risks everything to smuggle a puppy named Lava from Baghdad back to America.
But this book isn't so much about the dog. It's more about Jay's struggle to resume a life of 'normality' once he retires from active duty, with Lava by his side.
This book brilliantly explains why those who return from active duty in war zones are not the same person as they were when they first left. Everyone should read it.
But this book isn't so much about the dog. It's more about Jay's struggle to resume a life of 'normality' once he retires from active duty, with Lava by his side.
This book brilliantly explains why those who return from active duty in war zones are not the same person as they were when they first left. Everyone should read it.
September 3, 2021
If you are looking for a heartwarming tale about a dog rescued from a war zone, this isn’t the book for you. I’m not even sure why it is titled the way it is because the book is barely about a dog at all. What it is is one long preachy and pedantic rant. While I appreciated getting a glimpse into the mind of someone deeply effected by the horrors of war, I was turned off by FAR too much complaining about entitled civilians, particularly women whom the author often refers to in the most misogynistic terms possible.
June 2, 2009
Any idea what it's like to come home from the madness, bloodshed, and horror that is Iraq and resume normal American life? Author Jay Kopelman will tell you. This retired lieutenant colonel in the Marine Corps will spare you nothing if you open this book and take the walk with him.
The book is a beauty, a wonder.
The book is a beauty, a wonder.
January 14, 2014
I had just finished reading From Baghdad to America: Life Lessons from a Dog Named Lava when I picked this up. So, with my head still full of puppy Lava love, I expected (and wanted) this sequel to tell me more about Lava's cute doggie antics and his happy life ever after in the States. That and only that. I wanted his traumatic life in Baghdad to have ended forever. But life is not a fairy tale.
As Kopelman said, war changes people. Dogs, too.
In this sequel, Kopelman tells us about his and Lava's transition into civilian life. We read how Kopelman sees himself mirrored in Lava's own reality with PTSD and the steps they are taking to get better.
We come to understand how redeployed soldiers view civilians and civilian life through eyes that had just seen the atrocities of war, their struggle to understand why life goes on here while their buddies die and get maimed in Iraq, their sense of loss, and feeling out of place even in most familiar surroundings. Many war veterans come home, leave Iraq (and Afghanistan) behind, but Iraq does not leave them. The States feels like a foreign country. They would rather go back to Iraq. It may not be home, but it's where they now fit in.
Here in the States, we, civilians, hear stories of veterans who are not adjusting well to civilian life. We think them of them as crazies or, worse, pitiful drunks or drug addicts. Kopelman knows this, and he kindly acknowledges that civilians cannot know what veterans have gone through and still go through. He cannot blame us, he says. I agree. How would we know? We can never know exactly, but we can and should make the effort to learn to see their struggles from their point of view, not to pity them but to love and understand them. Kopelman's story helps us with that.
This book is also for veterans. Kopelman remains committed to his leadership role. He identifies problems within the military culture that creates this idea that to acknowledge a problem is to acknowledge weakness, and to seek help is to somehow give up your warrior status. Kopelman encourages these warriors to seek help by going to therapy himself. He doesn't think he has PTSD. Lava does. But he goes through therapy nevertheless.
"The experience of therapy has been . . . well, frankly, unsettling. I've opened myself up to a complete stranger and answered questions even Lava knows better than to ask me. If it helps any of my fellow Marines to realize that help is not a four-letter word, though, it will be worthwhile" (p. 149)
Stories of Lava can be found throughout the book, don't worry. You'll find out more about his personality and life as an American dog. All I can say is, I love him all the more.
Kopelman also graciously shares some letters from other veterans (WWII, Korea, Iraq) who shared their own stories about their dog bestfriends in foreign countries during their deployment. I love these letters, and I wish there were more of them. A project for a new book perhaps? :)
As Kopelman said, war changes people. Dogs, too.
In this sequel, Kopelman tells us about his and Lava's transition into civilian life. We read how Kopelman sees himself mirrored in Lava's own reality with PTSD and the steps they are taking to get better.
We come to understand how redeployed soldiers view civilians and civilian life through eyes that had just seen the atrocities of war, their struggle to understand why life goes on here while their buddies die and get maimed in Iraq, their sense of loss, and feeling out of place even in most familiar surroundings. Many war veterans come home, leave Iraq (and Afghanistan) behind, but Iraq does not leave them. The States feels like a foreign country. They would rather go back to Iraq. It may not be home, but it's where they now fit in.
Here in the States, we, civilians, hear stories of veterans who are not adjusting well to civilian life. We think them of them as crazies or, worse, pitiful drunks or drug addicts. Kopelman knows this, and he kindly acknowledges that civilians cannot know what veterans have gone through and still go through. He cannot blame us, he says. I agree. How would we know? We can never know exactly, but we can and should make the effort to learn to see their struggles from their point of view, not to pity them but to love and understand them. Kopelman's story helps us with that.
This book is also for veterans. Kopelman remains committed to his leadership role. He identifies problems within the military culture that creates this idea that to acknowledge a problem is to acknowledge weakness, and to seek help is to somehow give up your warrior status. Kopelman encourages these warriors to seek help by going to therapy himself. He doesn't think he has PTSD. Lava does. But he goes through therapy nevertheless.
"The experience of therapy has been . . . well, frankly, unsettling. I've opened myself up to a complete stranger and answered questions even Lava knows better than to ask me. If it helps any of my fellow Marines to realize that help is not a four-letter word, though, it will be worthwhile" (p. 149)
Stories of Lava can be found throughout the book, don't worry. You'll find out more about his personality and life as an American dog. All I can say is, I love him all the more.
Kopelman also graciously shares some letters from other veterans (WWII, Korea, Iraq) who shared their own stories about their dog bestfriends in foreign countries during their deployment. I love these letters, and I wish there were more of them. A project for a new book perhaps? :)
June 8, 2014
From Baghdad to America: Life Lessons From A Dog Named Lava is a welcome follow-up to From Baghdad, with Love. This piece of non-fiction has a very different tone than the first book as the author takes us from war-torn Fallujah to a new life of recovery for both he and Lava in La Jolla, California.
Kopelman compares Lava's drive and loyalty to that of a Marine. Semper Fidelis is the Marine Corp motto meaning "always faithful". (p. 26) Lava's loyalty upon undertaking his new life in La Jolla is evidenced by his protectiveness over his new family.
Lieutenant Kopelman explains how Marines are taught to value honor, courage, and commitment. In life, ". . . each person has to find his own definiton of those things, and stand by it. That doing the right thing is more important than blindly following rules." (p.83)
Kopelman amusingly refers to the female therapist in the story as Sigmund. Both he and Lava exhibit symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Tthe lieutenant's visits to the therapist are initiated as part of research for the writing of this book. Lava is also the recipient of therapy for war-induced symptoms.
1. Increased sensitivity to startle disproportionate levels of generalized or irrational fear
2. Increased irritability and hyper-reaactivity
3. A tendency to behave in impulsive and explosive ways in association with increased affective liability (mood swings)
4. The presence of hyperactivity
5. A tendency to behave aggressively under minimal provocation (pages 111-112)
Through Kopelman's experiences in war and with Lava, he has learned to value enjoying the simple things in life. "Find joy and happiness in just lying on your back in the grass while the sun's rays warm you to your core. Hell, howl at the moon if you want. The true measure of the man on Judgement Day is how he lived his life. I consider these things and I ask myself these questions. Did I live life with dignity, modesty, and compassion for others? Have I lived a full life and shared it with others receiving love in return? Have I found pleasure in the simple things and the wonders of nature? If at the end of the day I can answer yes to these questions, then I've lived a full life." (p.152)
The language in the book makes it appropriate for an adult audience.
Kopelman compares Lava's drive and loyalty to that of a Marine. Semper Fidelis is the Marine Corp motto meaning "always faithful". (p. 26) Lava's loyalty upon undertaking his new life in La Jolla is evidenced by his protectiveness over his new family.
Lieutenant Kopelman explains how Marines are taught to value honor, courage, and commitment. In life, ". . . each person has to find his own definiton of those things, and stand by it. That doing the right thing is more important than blindly following rules." (p.83)
Kopelman amusingly refers to the female therapist in the story as Sigmund. Both he and Lava exhibit symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Tthe lieutenant's visits to the therapist are initiated as part of research for the writing of this book. Lava is also the recipient of therapy for war-induced symptoms.
1. Increased sensitivity to startle disproportionate levels of generalized or irrational fear
2. Increased irritability and hyper-reaactivity
3. A tendency to behave in impulsive and explosive ways in association with increased affective liability (mood swings)
4. The presence of hyperactivity
5. A tendency to behave aggressively under minimal provocation (pages 111-112)
Through Kopelman's experiences in war and with Lava, he has learned to value enjoying the simple things in life. "Find joy and happiness in just lying on your back in the grass while the sun's rays warm you to your core. Hell, howl at the moon if you want. The true measure of the man on Judgement Day is how he lived his life. I consider these things and I ask myself these questions. Did I live life with dignity, modesty, and compassion for others? Have I lived a full life and shared it with others receiving love in return? Have I found pleasure in the simple things and the wonders of nature? If at the end of the day I can answer yes to these questions, then I've lived a full life." (p.152)
The language in the book makes it appropriate for an adult audience.
July 8, 2019
Actually a 3.5
I did not read the first of this series of two - yet. But based on this book which is primarily about Kopelman's struggles upon his return from war - vs being about his dog - I will be ordering the first book from my library. That said, I think this book stands alone.
I'm not sure how much of my admiring the book is based on both my being a lifelong animal lover and multi-dog family plus being married to a Vietnam Vet - who also served in a few of the Middle East conflicts/wars.
I would recommend this book as a quick read for anyone who loves dogs and has any curiosity about what war does to soldier's minds.
I did not read the first of this series of two - yet. But based on this book which is primarily about Kopelman's struggles upon his return from war - vs being about his dog - I will be ordering the first book from my library. That said, I think this book stands alone.
I'm not sure how much of my admiring the book is based on both my being a lifelong animal lover and multi-dog family plus being married to a Vietnam Vet - who also served in a few of the Middle East conflicts/wars.
I would recommend this book as a quick read for anyone who loves dogs and has any curiosity about what war does to soldier's minds.
February 25, 2019
I started this book expecting to read more about Lava and her story. Probably in an earlier book I haven't read. What I do like about the book is the story about Lava and her assimilation into America and how it compares to returning veterans and their assimilation back into the American society. This book was published in 2010 and what it teaches is that pets can make the best therapists but everyone who goes through what Lt Col Ret Kopelman and Lava and did need the special person (or pet) to help them return.
April 17, 2019
I listened to the audio book and it’s really good. It’s both a comical and serious look at combat and PTSD filled with some great humor and military humor. Kopelman also discusses and shares his satirical point of view of some issues of today’s society too.
I now plan to read Kopelman’s other books too.
I definitely recommend this book.
I now plan to read Kopelman’s other books too.
I definitely recommend this book.
August 12, 2017
Book 2 was pretty good but more about PTSD than Lava, it was well worth the reading.
July 2, 2021
Enjoyed Baghdad to America
I really enjoyed this book. I found his relationship with Lava extremely amazing. Lots of genuine insight and help for others struggling.
I really enjoyed this book. I found his relationship with Lava extremely amazing. Lots of genuine insight and help for others struggling.
July 10, 2021
A little bit of Lava and a whole lot of Jay denying that he has post-traumatic stress disorder.
Nowhere near as good as his first book.
Nowhere near as good as his first book.
January 29, 2024
4*
A wonderful story of a stray dog in Iraq and the Marine who helped him get to America. The story itself is touching although you can tell a soldier wrote (dictated) it because it is often told more matter-of-factly than a fictional account would be. But that’s part of what makes it such a great story - it happened.
A wonderful story of a stray dog in Iraq and the Marine who helped him get to America. The story itself is touching although you can tell a soldier wrote (dictated) it because it is often told more matter-of-factly than a fictional account would be. But that’s part of what makes it such a great story - it happened.
May 18, 2023
A quick read, not for kids but also light as far as not for kids goes. Some witty commentary about life both in general as well as life as a veteran.
May 25, 2025
A great biographical account of how a soldier saved a dog from Iraq and in turn this dog saved the soldier from Iraq.
September 30, 2015
Imagine fighting in Fallujah, one of the most dangerous places in the world, and seeing some of the most horrific things a person can ever see in their life. But a companion helps you connect to the person you were before the terrible event. New York Times bestselling author Jay Kopelman gives us an insight into his amazing story about how a dog changed his life in the book From Baghdad to America. As a dog lover, this book was really interesting to me. I realized that dogs are not only family but a friend as well and have the ability to help us on a daily basis without even knowing it. Through reading this book I learned that dogs are not only pets and companions but they aid our veterans in their transition home.
This book book isn’t just about war. Jay Kopelman takes us through his life after the war and how his dog Lava and himself readjusted to life back home. Kopelman was not the only one affected by this war, his dog was as well. He talks about how his dog suffered from PTSD when they got home and how they work together to make their situation better. A war is not over once a soldier comes home, a whole new battle starts. Kopelman takes us into depth on the struggles that not only himself but other veterans returning from war face as well. From Baghdad to America shows us how a dog can take the edge off and how the dog can take the soldiers back to a simpler time allowing them to relax. I’ve never really recognized how much something as simple as a dog can change someone's life in such a positive way. Sometimes in life we need something to reconnect us to the simpler side of life and I think this book really shows that.
I think this book is aimed at an older audience but I would highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading about pets and to anyone who likes an inspirational story. This book gives us, as the audience, an insight into what our soldiers go through and how they cope and deal with it, during their service and once they come back home.
This book book isn’t just about war. Jay Kopelman takes us through his life after the war and how his dog Lava and himself readjusted to life back home. Kopelman was not the only one affected by this war, his dog was as well. He talks about how his dog suffered from PTSD when they got home and how they work together to make their situation better. A war is not over once a soldier comes home, a whole new battle starts. Kopelman takes us into depth on the struggles that not only himself but other veterans returning from war face as well. From Baghdad to America shows us how a dog can take the edge off and how the dog can take the soldiers back to a simpler time allowing them to relax. I’ve never really recognized how much something as simple as a dog can change someone's life in such a positive way. Sometimes in life we need something to reconnect us to the simpler side of life and I think this book really shows that.
I think this book is aimed at an older audience but I would highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading about pets and to anyone who likes an inspirational story. This book gives us, as the audience, an insight into what our soldiers go through and how they cope and deal with it, during their service and once they come back home.
May 22, 2013
I liked this book and I see it as a good vessel to push those who are suffering from PTSD into therapy. But I thought that this book would be more about Lava and less about the mental stability of those coming home from war.
I think dogs are the best therapy and I'm glad that Jay had the book and Lava as an excuse to push him into seeing someone about his issues. It's a lovely story about a dog and a man helping each other recover from what they saw and lived through during their stay in Fallujuah.
It took me longer than it should have, yet I expected it to be full of "dog stories" and not about the policies and paperwork of the Marines. I guess if I wanted to know more about what forms you had to fill out before and after deployment I might either do some research or join myself. But I understood the point since I have no idea what these men and women have to go through for our country so it was a good eye opener to all the steps they have to go through. It has also given me perspective in how unaccepting PTSD is to the forces. If we're seeing such a high rate of suicides, divorces and substance abuse in those coming home why are sergents and officers stressing that "if you dare to say "yes" on any part of your PDHA" you're forced to explain and be humiliated in front of your fellow brothers and sisters. I can't find the exact quote but it felt like to me that these soldiers are too afraid to express how they really feel. I hope with this book it helps others push themselves into therapy or find better ways to cope- like getting a dog perhaps ;)
I think dogs are the best therapy and I'm glad that Jay had the book and Lava as an excuse to push him into seeing someone about his issues. It's a lovely story about a dog and a man helping each other recover from what they saw and lived through during their stay in Fallujuah.
It took me longer than it should have, yet I expected it to be full of "dog stories" and not about the policies and paperwork of the Marines. I guess if I wanted to know more about what forms you had to fill out before and after deployment I might either do some research or join myself. But I understood the point since I have no idea what these men and women have to go through for our country so it was a good eye opener to all the steps they have to go through. It has also given me perspective in how unaccepting PTSD is to the forces. If we're seeing such a high rate of suicides, divorces and substance abuse in those coming home why are sergents and officers stressing that "if you dare to say "yes" on any part of your PDHA" you're forced to explain and be humiliated in front of your fellow brothers and sisters. I can't find the exact quote but it felt like to me that these soldiers are too afraid to express how they really feel. I hope with this book it helps others push themselves into therapy or find better ways to cope- like getting a dog perhaps ;)
June 17, 2013
Less focused than the first book, From Baghdad, With Love: A Marine, the War, and a Dog Named Lava, this one mainly deals with life after Iraq, both for Kopelman and for Lava. I think the main message is an important one--that a lot of soldiers get out and don't get the help that they need because they feel their macho image needs to be upheld, and that it's not right. Kopelman himself gets help only reluctantly, and under cover of doing research for the book, but admits that it was needed and that he'll be going back for more, and who cares what other people think about that. It's a lesson he attributes to his dog, who doesn't censor his behavior and is on medication to help with symptoms of PTSD. I appreciate Kopelman's honesty, though I have a hard time with those old-fashioned macho attitudes he's talking about and that he exhibits himself at times. I'm glad I read this sequel, and I liked learning more about how he and Lava handled coming home, but I think the first book is a much more even and compelling read. I definitely support the changes Kopelman is working towards though.
October 1, 2015
I picked up this book, because: dog, and di$count. But if I could do it over again, I would read the first book (From Baghdad With Love) first, before this one. This is, as another reviewer said, like an extended epilogue. It's also a book that I think is less targeted to a civilian reader and more for repatriated vets -- the message being, please acknowledge and get the support you need to move forward in life; there's no shame, because it is what it is.
Actually, I guess that's a pretty universal message, despite the message being very much in the context of post-traumatic stress.
His pup Lava mirrors the healing process, since it had grown up in a war zone. Dogs are a lot less ambiguous with their emotions, so in some ways, it seemed like Jay was describing his own recovery as he described Lava's. (I did have a personal reaction to that, since I experienced something similar psychologically when I adopted a pet.)
The latter third of the book is a bit of a dissertation on PTS, which is good information for people who aren't familiar with the topic. I give the book 3 stars because while the content is good, it just seems like the message would be much more effective if it was organized for a specific target audience.
Actually, I guess that's a pretty universal message, despite the message being very much in the context of post-traumatic stress.
His pup Lava mirrors the healing process, since it had grown up in a war zone. Dogs are a lot less ambiguous with their emotions, so in some ways, it seemed like Jay was describing his own recovery as he described Lava's. (I did have a personal reaction to that, since I experienced something similar psychologically when I adopted a pet.)
The latter third of the book is a bit of a dissertation on PTS, which is good information for people who aren't familiar with the topic. I give the book 3 stars because while the content is good, it just seems like the message would be much more effective if it was organized for a specific target audience.
July 30, 2008
I believe that some of these first reviews are mixing up the first book "From Baghdad With Love" with this one "From Baghdad To America".
This book is more about Kopelman's and Lava's adjustment to life back (in Kopelman's case) and life (in Lava's case)in America. Kopelman's anger management issues, falling in love with the love of his life because "Lava bit" a child! How Lava helped Kopelman meet this woman, marry and have a child of his own. How Kopelman, under the guise of research, finally seeks professional help with his adjustments back in America, etc.
There are copies of letters from retired military telling their stories of dogs they met, fell in love with, and wanted to, tried to, bring them back to America when their tours were over.
You see it's an entirely different book.
Read it again for the first time and you'll see.
It was an interesting book all the same, but 75% about Jay and 25% about Lava. Touching and meaningful.
This book is more about Kopelman's and Lava's adjustment to life back (in Kopelman's case) and life (in Lava's case)in America. Kopelman's anger management issues, falling in love with the love of his life because "Lava bit" a child! How Lava helped Kopelman meet this woman, marry and have a child of his own. How Kopelman, under the guise of research, finally seeks professional help with his adjustments back in America, etc.
There are copies of letters from retired military telling their stories of dogs they met, fell in love with, and wanted to, tried to, bring them back to America when their tours were over.
You see it's an entirely different book.
Read it again for the first time and you'll see.
It was an interesting book all the same, but 75% about Jay and 25% about Lava. Touching and meaningful.
October 18, 2010
I could basically copy paste my review for "From Baghdad with Love" (with a few minor edits) but that's cheating.
Basically, while many complain that Jay is an inexperienced and unpolished writer, I think he has a perfect voice for his stories. His books are about surviving hell on earth only to come back to what you thought would be heaven and find out it's just as hellish (if not more so) only different. I think his writing catches people off guard with his honesty and openness and makes it easy to relate to and connect with his story even though it's a very personal one.
This book doesn't feature Lava as a main character as much as the first book did, but it's interesting to learn a bit more about Jay as well.
I loved this book (almost) as much as the first and it's one of the first books i recommend to people asking for suggestions.
Basically, while many complain that Jay is an inexperienced and unpolished writer, I think he has a perfect voice for his stories. His books are about surviving hell on earth only to come back to what you thought would be heaven and find out it's just as hellish (if not more so) only different. I think his writing catches people off guard with his honesty and openness and makes it easy to relate to and connect with his story even though it's a very personal one.
This book doesn't feature Lava as a main character as much as the first book did, but it's interesting to learn a bit more about Jay as well.
I loved this book (almost) as much as the first and it's one of the first books i recommend to people asking for suggestions.
January 25, 2009
I was really more interested in reading the first book that he wrote, but the library didn't have it. This book was easy to read, but I didn't think it was well written. He talks about what it was like after coming back from Iraq and the dog's "adjustment" to life in America. I'm sorry, but a dog doesn't know if it's in America or Iraq or Timbuktu for that matter. Maybe he was using the dog to represent his own adjustment to coming back to America. He also talked about how the dog had PTSD, because it would go crazy anytime it heard loud noises or knocks at the door. My dog does that, and he does NOT have PTSD. I think this book is trying to justify all the time and effort and money that was spent on getting this dog out of Iraq. But I haven't read the first book...
January 1, 2014
Considering this a is a follow-up to -From Baghdad, With Love-, I was expecting it to be more about Lava. Instead, it seems to primarily be Kopelman's way of wrestling with the PTSD he surely has, but won't admit to. It was a bit too "oo-rah" for me and some of Kopelman's offhand statements rubbed me the wrong way (for example, his comment about nurturing children to be exclusively the mother's job). I also find it frustrating that he makes such a big point of encouraging others to go seek help for PTSD but steadfastly denies his own need for such help, instead using Lava as an example of a creature suffering from such a disorder. Points for encouraging others, but it seems to fall a little flat with his own denial.
August 18, 2015
If I could give this book 10 stars I would.
I have done many research papers on PTSD in my Psychology degree and Masters. Reading and thinking of ways that could our men and women who are coming home from deployment. Your book has finally has answered so many questions. Has helped write the conclusion to my latest paper, and gives me hope that maybe if more Vets read this it will break the barrier of silence and they will feel it is OK to seek help. Stop the stigma of finding someone who can stop the flashback , night terrors, and anxiety. So thank you LT Colonel Kopelman and Lava for sharing your most amazing storing.
I have done many research papers on PTSD in my Psychology degree and Masters. Reading and thinking of ways that could our men and women who are coming home from deployment. Your book has finally has answered so many questions. Has helped write the conclusion to my latest paper, and gives me hope that maybe if more Vets read this it will break the barrier of silence and they will feel it is OK to seek help. Stop the stigma of finding someone who can stop the flashback , night terrors, and anxiety. So thank you LT Colonel Kopelman and Lava for sharing your most amazing storing.
October 29, 2010
Short & to the point. I would think that I would have the same feelings about life in general as the author, if I were a soldier and lived his experiences. Heck, I have a lot of the same feelings already, without the selfless work of a military man. The pettiness and entitlement the average American exudes sicken him as they do me. I cannot imagine the depth of those thoughts if fostered by war.
I have not read 'From Baghdad with Love,' but I think I would like to, even out of order, just to learn what this brave man went through to save the dog that, in essence, saved him.
I have not read 'From Baghdad with Love,' but I think I would like to, even out of order, just to learn what this brave man went through to save the dog that, in essence, saved him.
January 29, 2013
I didn't like this book as much as I did the first one, From Baghdad with Love, but I did enjoy it quite a bit. Col. Kopelman focused on life with Lava after returning home from Iraq. He not only focused on how Lava adjusted, but also how he adjusted and how he could relate to Lava. Col. Kopelman shed light on issues a lot of servicemen encounter after coming home from Iraq and shared the many problems of negative stigma of mental health in the military. This was of great interest to me. Col. Kopelman should be rewarded for opening up about his experiences.
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