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Baghdaddy: How Saddam Hussein Taught Me to Be a Better Father
As a child, he was raised in an unstable and violent home by a mother struggling with mental illness. An absent father with a firm belief in tough love left him with only his sister to understand or comfort him as they faced a home full of harshness, resentment, and physical abuse.
As a man, he braved the war-torn landscapes of Kuwait, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Having learned early from his father that only the strong survive, he enlisted in the Air Force after high school and began an impressive military career in intelligence analysis, communications, and supporting special operations, meeting incredible individuals along the way.
Baghdaddy is Bill Riley's memoir: an honest and colorful depiction of his journey through a turbulent youth and into a challenging adulthood. This very human account of living in some of the least humane environments delivers the message that no matter how different we seem, we are all trying to make the best of life and learn how to be the best versions of ourselves.
As a man, he braved the war-torn landscapes of Kuwait, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Having learned early from his father that only the strong survive, he enlisted in the Air Force after high school and began an impressive military career in intelligence analysis, communications, and supporting special operations, meeting incredible individuals along the way.
Baghdaddy is Bill Riley's memoir: an honest and colorful depiction of his journey through a turbulent youth and into a challenging adulthood. This very human account of living in some of the least humane environments delivers the message that no matter how different we seem, we are all trying to make the best of life and learn how to be the best versions of ourselves.
456 pages, Hardcover
Published May 7, 2019
2 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Bill Riley
3 books8 followersBill Riley is an award-winning author and retired U. S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel with interests in space exploration, coffee roasting, global communication, intelligence activities, and ancient ruins.
Bill was an intelligence analyst during the Cold War. Later, he specialized in strategy and communications. During his career, he’s worked with intelligence and special operations professionals from every service, virtually every intelligence agency, and several friendly foreign governments.
Bill’s deployments took him through combat zones across the Middle East where he played significant roles in Kuwait and Iraq, supported joint coalition operations, and helped nations rebuild after wars. He was the first U. S. Electronic Warfare Officer in Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom, he led the Air Force’s largest network operations and security center, and he was the first Cyberspace Operations officer to receive the Air Force Combat Action Medal.
He holds degrees in Literature, Public Administration, and Strategic Leadership, and he is a graduate of Air Command and Staff College and the Air Force Space Command VIGILANT LOOK program.
Bill lives in Idaho, just outside Boise, with his wife and two sons.
Learn more at: https://www.billrileyauthor.com
Bill was an intelligence analyst during the Cold War. Later, he specialized in strategy and communications. During his career, he’s worked with intelligence and special operations professionals from every service, virtually every intelligence agency, and several friendly foreign governments.
Bill’s deployments took him through combat zones across the Middle East where he played significant roles in Kuwait and Iraq, supported joint coalition operations, and helped nations rebuild after wars. He was the first U. S. Electronic Warfare Officer in Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom, he led the Air Force’s largest network operations and security center, and he was the first Cyberspace Operations officer to receive the Air Force Combat Action Medal.
He holds degrees in Literature, Public Administration, and Strategic Leadership, and he is a graduate of Air Command and Staff College and the Air Force Space Command VIGILANT LOOK program.
Bill lives in Idaho, just outside Boise, with his wife and two sons.
Learn more at: https://www.billrileyauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 18, 2021
The mark of a mature and robust human being is the ability to learn from experience and to grow in adversity.
In BAGHDADDY, Bill Riley details the key moments as he matured from an abused child into an upstanding officer, husband and father against odds that were stacked against him from the beginning.
The one rule that Bill Riley draws from the experiences of a dysfunctional family, exploits in support of covert operations in the Middle East, and the challenges of marriage and fatherhood is: Your word is your bond. You do what you promise to do, no matter what the cost.
Standing up straight with his shoulders back, Bill Riley shows us how he accepted the terrible responsibility of life – one that we all face to a greater or lesser extent -- with his eyes and his heart wide open.
All strength to him! A fascinating insight into one good man’s victory.
In BAGHDADDY, Bill Riley details the key moments as he matured from an abused child into an upstanding officer, husband and father against odds that were stacked against him from the beginning.
The one rule that Bill Riley draws from the experiences of a dysfunctional family, exploits in support of covert operations in the Middle East, and the challenges of marriage and fatherhood is: Your word is your bond. You do what you promise to do, no matter what the cost.
Standing up straight with his shoulders back, Bill Riley shows us how he accepted the terrible responsibility of life – one that we all face to a greater or lesser extent -- with his eyes and his heart wide open.
All strength to him! A fascinating insight into one good man’s victory.
May 15, 2019
This was more than a read, it was an experience.
Riley’s story could have easily been told in two separate offerings; both his upbringing and his later military experience could have filled volumes and stood alone in their own merit. But told together, a more complex undertaking for the author, the stories weave the fabric of how this man was made; how the childhood was utterly necessary for the final product adult.
I am also a veteran, and although I did not serve with Lt Col Riley, ironically, I did deploy to the places he takes us in the book; his descriptions of the areas are not only dead on, but I appreciated his explanations of the cultural challenges, his interpretations of the middle eastern attitudes and the often untold “rest of the story” regarding the history of the goings on as well as the US military involvement.
His childhood was dysfunctional and violent, without a doubt, yet there is not a hint of martyrdom or victimization in his tone. In fact, I was intrigued by how he transported into his child-mind and told the story from the eyes of the boy-Billy Riley. Conversely, as his actions as a G.I. in the combat zone were unique and undoubtedly heroic, I didn’t sense the tone a guy looking for validation or hero-worship. I sensed a man who found himself in situations where did what he was duty-bound to do and didn’t always like it.
BAGHDADDY is a unique coming-of-age story with an odd combination of very poignant, emotional moments, violent twists and welcoming bursts of humor. This is a case, for sure, where the sum total of experiences, tragedy notwithstanding, make the man.
I strongly recommend this book to readers regardless of their preferred genre. I believe it offers much to a broad audience.
Riley’s story could have easily been told in two separate offerings; both his upbringing and his later military experience could have filled volumes and stood alone in their own merit. But told together, a more complex undertaking for the author, the stories weave the fabric of how this man was made; how the childhood was utterly necessary for the final product adult.
I am also a veteran, and although I did not serve with Lt Col Riley, ironically, I did deploy to the places he takes us in the book; his descriptions of the areas are not only dead on, but I appreciated his explanations of the cultural challenges, his interpretations of the middle eastern attitudes and the often untold “rest of the story” regarding the history of the goings on as well as the US military involvement.
His childhood was dysfunctional and violent, without a doubt, yet there is not a hint of martyrdom or victimization in his tone. In fact, I was intrigued by how he transported into his child-mind and told the story from the eyes of the boy-Billy Riley. Conversely, as his actions as a G.I. in the combat zone were unique and undoubtedly heroic, I didn’t sense the tone a guy looking for validation or hero-worship. I sensed a man who found himself in situations where did what he was duty-bound to do and didn’t always like it.
BAGHDADDY is a unique coming-of-age story with an odd combination of very poignant, emotional moments, violent twists and welcoming bursts of humor. This is a case, for sure, where the sum total of experiences, tragedy notwithstanding, make the man.
I strongly recommend this book to readers regardless of their preferred genre. I believe it offers much to a broad audience.
May 30, 2020
I was very aware of the wars fought in the Middle East in the 1990s and into the new millennium; they were impossible to miss with the advent of the 24 hour news cycle and the internet. The term 'embedded' applied to correspondents who travelled with the forces but this memoir takes things one step further and we see conflicts through the author's eyes. With flashbacks to a cruel childhood interlaced with first hand descriptions of skirmishes and hair-raising encounters with insurgents and local gangs, I expected this to be a forceful, direct account of time served abroad. It was, but it's beautifully written and left me with an indellible impression of small details like the desert after rain, and the stark, bleak beauty of the region. Parental skills courtesy of Saddam Hussein? That you'll have to discover for yourself.
March 6, 2019
BAGHDADDY, by Bill Riley, is a courageous and captivating memoir about a man who survived an abusive childhood, excelled as an Air Force officer, and applied lessons he'd learned to find peace as a father, husband, and human.
The first thing I noticed when reading this memoir was the high quality of writing, which shouldn't have surprised me considering Riley holds a degree in literature. (He earned two other degrees as well!) However, I found this to be an interesting dichotomy. Bill Riley grew up in a violent home, went on to survive violent combat missions, and yet somewhere, somehow, fostered his innate love for literature and writing.
The fact he lived past his childhood was a miracle by itself. Clearly, Riley was meant to live beyond his upbringing -- whether the purpose was to save fellow soldiers in combat, raise children in a healthier environment than he had, or merely to leave a mark of kindness on those along his path . . . Bill Riley is a survivor.
Of course, he didn't survive in isolation. Riley wrote, "I knew I had strong friendships, but I didn't realize, on a rational level, how wrong my life would have gone without them until I started connecting the dots" (page xi).
One of the lines that repeatedly struck me throughout the book was, "Why do they always use kids?" (page 14). Anyone who has endured or witnessed childhood trauma can grasp the depth of this question. Riley was "used" and abused in his childhood. During combat missions, he witnessed other children being used in atrocious ways. The question that repeated in my mind as a reader was, "Would Riley overcome these experiences to provide a better environment for his own children?"
BAGHDADDY by Bill Riley would make an excellent book club choice for any group of readers, because there are so many powerful situations, topics, and philosophies to be discussed.
The pages recounting his childhood abuse are hard to read, but they are so well written, they must be read. Additionally, these pages must be read to fully understand what Riley has endured and chosen to overcome to be the man of peace he is today.
I'm not a military buff, and I was concerned I would find the numerous pages of military stories boring, but I was wrong! Again, Riley is such a talented writer; with great skill, he painted vivid pictures and tapped into emotional wells, that I, as the reader, was compelled to read every word and turn every page.
Riley's stories about his time in the military gave me a peek behind a curtain I would never have experienced without reading this memoir. And I am thankful for that.
"When I arrived in Iraq, I found myself at the crossroads of who I could be and what I would be, and my time was running out" (page 10).
As if writing a novel, Riley employed techniques often used in fiction, such as knowledge gaps, rhetorical devices, and embedded tension. This type of writing is what makes a memoir compelling--fully engaging the reader.
My only criticism of the book was I wanted more scenes of resolution. If space was a concern, several existing scenes could have been cut without affecting the overall flow or impact, allowing closure stories from his fatherhood years. I wanted to know specifics of how he parented differently from his own parents. Did he ever hit his kids, even once? I wanted to know how he took the lessons he learned from his deployments and implemented them into his role as a father. Additionally, I wanted to know what his adult relationships were like with his sisters. I wanted to know if he ever sought out his friend Sarah. I wanted examples comparing and contrasting how Riley's father treated him as a child versus how Riley treated his own sons in similar situations.
For example, one of my favorite scenarios that connected his past, present, and future was when he described hunting rabbits with his father. Riley compared that experience to a combat mission where he utilized hunting lessons from his father to help save the lives of his team, and then Riley contrasted that to fatherhood and how instead of hunting, he taught his sons to fish.
But I suppose, any book that leaves you wanting more is a good book. Yes?
I highly recommend BAGHDADDY by Bill Riley to all readers. After reading it, you'll better understand your own childhood, better understand what the military does for our country, and better understand the value of a quiet night at home, listening to your child sleep peacefully.
[I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.]
The first thing I noticed when reading this memoir was the high quality of writing, which shouldn't have surprised me considering Riley holds a degree in literature. (He earned two other degrees as well!) However, I found this to be an interesting dichotomy. Bill Riley grew up in a violent home, went on to survive violent combat missions, and yet somewhere, somehow, fostered his innate love for literature and writing.
The fact he lived past his childhood was a miracle by itself. Clearly, Riley was meant to live beyond his upbringing -- whether the purpose was to save fellow soldiers in combat, raise children in a healthier environment than he had, or merely to leave a mark of kindness on those along his path . . . Bill Riley is a survivor.
Of course, he didn't survive in isolation. Riley wrote, "I knew I had strong friendships, but I didn't realize, on a rational level, how wrong my life would have gone without them until I started connecting the dots" (page xi).
One of the lines that repeatedly struck me throughout the book was, "Why do they always use kids?" (page 14). Anyone who has endured or witnessed childhood trauma can grasp the depth of this question. Riley was "used" and abused in his childhood. During combat missions, he witnessed other children being used in atrocious ways. The question that repeated in my mind as a reader was, "Would Riley overcome these experiences to provide a better environment for his own children?"
BAGHDADDY by Bill Riley would make an excellent book club choice for any group of readers, because there are so many powerful situations, topics, and philosophies to be discussed.
The pages recounting his childhood abuse are hard to read, but they are so well written, they must be read. Additionally, these pages must be read to fully understand what Riley has endured and chosen to overcome to be the man of peace he is today.
I'm not a military buff, and I was concerned I would find the numerous pages of military stories boring, but I was wrong! Again, Riley is such a talented writer; with great skill, he painted vivid pictures and tapped into emotional wells, that I, as the reader, was compelled to read every word and turn every page.
Riley's stories about his time in the military gave me a peek behind a curtain I would never have experienced without reading this memoir. And I am thankful for that.
"When I arrived in Iraq, I found myself at the crossroads of who I could be and what I would be, and my time was running out" (page 10).
As if writing a novel, Riley employed techniques often used in fiction, such as knowledge gaps, rhetorical devices, and embedded tension. This type of writing is what makes a memoir compelling--fully engaging the reader.
My only criticism of the book was I wanted more scenes of resolution. If space was a concern, several existing scenes could have been cut without affecting the overall flow or impact, allowing closure stories from his fatherhood years. I wanted to know specifics of how he parented differently from his own parents. Did he ever hit his kids, even once? I wanted to know how he took the lessons he learned from his deployments and implemented them into his role as a father. Additionally, I wanted to know what his adult relationships were like with his sisters. I wanted to know if he ever sought out his friend Sarah. I wanted examples comparing and contrasting how Riley's father treated him as a child versus how Riley treated his own sons in similar situations.
For example, one of my favorite scenarios that connected his past, present, and future was when he described hunting rabbits with his father. Riley compared that experience to a combat mission where he utilized hunting lessons from his father to help save the lives of his team, and then Riley contrasted that to fatherhood and how instead of hunting, he taught his sons to fish.
But I suppose, any book that leaves you wanting more is a good book. Yes?
I highly recommend BAGHDADDY by Bill Riley to all readers. After reading it, you'll better understand your own childhood, better understand what the military does for our country, and better understand the value of a quiet night at home, listening to your child sleep peacefully.
[I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.]
October 12, 2020
I have read a good pile of books this year and none of them have affected me in the way Baghdaddy by Bill Riley has. This is a very powerful memoir about Bill's life from the time he was a small child to his adulthood as an intelligence analyst in the Air Force.
I experienced chills and my eyes tearing up from chapter one. Reading about the childhood he was given broke my heart into more pieces I would ever be able to count. I will never understand child abuse, ever and I wish I could protect every single child from ever experiencing it. As I read I said silent prayers for Bill's sister Isabel, who loved Bill and took care of him when he could barely move after his mother was though with him. I also prayed for his childhood best friend, Sarah, who was his angel and helped him escape from reality as often as she could. I pray both these woman have found peace and happiness in their lives and have been blessed beyond anything they could ever hope for. I adored Sarah, who was a bit of Bill's very own, Winnie Cooper from The Wonder Years. Like Kevin and Winnie, they had a special attachment that made Bill's childhood a little more bearable. Like Kevin and Winnie, they don't end up with each other, but it's a reminder that God sends us who we need at certain times in our lives. I'm thankful they had adventures together, like the time they were shooting off rockets and making fire in the sky. It meant Bill got a little bit of a normal childhood.
When Bill escaped his mother's abuse and went on to join the Air Force where he met his beautiful wife Jodi, I rejoiced.
Reading about the things he accomplished while over seas for so many tours I lost count was eye opening. You hear the stories, but reading one mans account, as detailed as Bill is, was a new experience. He was so detailed I could hear the gunfire, see the rubble and taste the dry desert dust.
Bill mentions at one point that before Walt Disney came along, even fairytales didn't have happy endings. Well, I hope you've finally found yours Bill. It seems you were always battling something in life, your mother and father, bullies on playgrounds, camel spiders, assumptions and bullets. You touched my heart when you went to lay flowers at the ruins of your favorite cafe, took your helmet off and knelt to say a little prayer for a little girl in a yellow dress who made a family out of orphans and any life that had been lost there. When you gave your dad that four leaf clover, you showed what an extraordinary person you were and what love really is in that small moment.
Bill is a man who has walked through a life not allowing the odds being stacked against him to stop him. He has been a HERO his entire life. Surviving a childhood no child should have to experience and surviving multiple wars. I hope the tears you shed now are ones of happiness, because that is what you deserve. I and in awe of you and have the deepest respect for you, your wife and family and for every single soldier who has ever served for our country. It is people like Bill who make me proud to be an American.
I experienced chills and my eyes tearing up from chapter one. Reading about the childhood he was given broke my heart into more pieces I would ever be able to count. I will never understand child abuse, ever and I wish I could protect every single child from ever experiencing it. As I read I said silent prayers for Bill's sister Isabel, who loved Bill and took care of him when he could barely move after his mother was though with him. I also prayed for his childhood best friend, Sarah, who was his angel and helped him escape from reality as often as she could. I pray both these woman have found peace and happiness in their lives and have been blessed beyond anything they could ever hope for. I adored Sarah, who was a bit of Bill's very own, Winnie Cooper from The Wonder Years. Like Kevin and Winnie, they had a special attachment that made Bill's childhood a little more bearable. Like Kevin and Winnie, they don't end up with each other, but it's a reminder that God sends us who we need at certain times in our lives. I'm thankful they had adventures together, like the time they were shooting off rockets and making fire in the sky. It meant Bill got a little bit of a normal childhood.
When Bill escaped his mother's abuse and went on to join the Air Force where he met his beautiful wife Jodi, I rejoiced.
Reading about the things he accomplished while over seas for so many tours I lost count was eye opening. You hear the stories, but reading one mans account, as detailed as Bill is, was a new experience. He was so detailed I could hear the gunfire, see the rubble and taste the dry desert dust.
Bill mentions at one point that before Walt Disney came along, even fairytales didn't have happy endings. Well, I hope you've finally found yours Bill. It seems you were always battling something in life, your mother and father, bullies on playgrounds, camel spiders, assumptions and bullets. You touched my heart when you went to lay flowers at the ruins of your favorite cafe, took your helmet off and knelt to say a little prayer for a little girl in a yellow dress who made a family out of orphans and any life that had been lost there. When you gave your dad that four leaf clover, you showed what an extraordinary person you were and what love really is in that small moment.
Bill is a man who has walked through a life not allowing the odds being stacked against him to stop him. He has been a HERO his entire life. Surviving a childhood no child should have to experience and surviving multiple wars. I hope the tears you shed now are ones of happiness, because that is what you deserve. I and in awe of you and have the deepest respect for you, your wife and family and for every single soldier who has ever served for our country. It is people like Bill who make me proud to be an American.
October 31, 2020
What an extraordinary book this is. I think this is one memoir which I don’t believe I will forget. Let me say that Bill Riley is a remarkable man and after reading this raw and candid memoir I have a huge admiration for him and all he has overcome and achieved in his life. He has made a difference.
I found it hard to read about the emotional and physical abuse he endured as a child. It was unbelievably traumatic. No child should have to suffer like that and yet as an adult looking back, he has accepted what happened and is at peace with it. He believes these experiences shaped his character. They certainly made him a person who faced up to problems and tackled them head on, yet they also made him a compassionate man.
After joining the Air Force, he was eventually posted to Iraq after the fall of Saddam Hussein. At the time, the news of events in the Middle East dominated the news. We were aware of the ‘war on terror’ without being aware of the terror of living there and enduring it. I found his accounts of the war incredibly moving and at times excruciatingly painful. I wept with him when he recounted the story of holding a gun to a child and the girl in the yellow dress. He is an exceedingly accomplished writer who can describe both the beauty of a desert night and the terror of being trapped in a building under attack by insurgents. I found it eye opening to see things from the viewpoint of those who had been sent to rebuild the country and yet were frequently regarded with suspicion by the locals and regarded as legitimate targets. I was decidedly relieved when he made it safely back home. Early on he was terrified of being a father – I don’t think he needed to worry. I salute you Lt. Colonel Riley.
I found it hard to read about the emotional and physical abuse he endured as a child. It was unbelievably traumatic. No child should have to suffer like that and yet as an adult looking back, he has accepted what happened and is at peace with it. He believes these experiences shaped his character. They certainly made him a person who faced up to problems and tackled them head on, yet they also made him a compassionate man.
After joining the Air Force, he was eventually posted to Iraq after the fall of Saddam Hussein. At the time, the news of events in the Middle East dominated the news. We were aware of the ‘war on terror’ without being aware of the terror of living there and enduring it. I found his accounts of the war incredibly moving and at times excruciatingly painful. I wept with him when he recounted the story of holding a gun to a child and the girl in the yellow dress. He is an exceedingly accomplished writer who can describe both the beauty of a desert night and the terror of being trapped in a building under attack by insurgents. I found it eye opening to see things from the viewpoint of those who had been sent to rebuild the country and yet were frequently regarded with suspicion by the locals and regarded as legitimate targets. I was decidedly relieved when he made it safely back home. Early on he was terrified of being a father – I don’t think he needed to worry. I salute you Lt. Colonel Riley.
April 12, 2023
Baghdaddy is an astonishing autobiographical triptych chronicling three distinct yet inextricably linked phases of the author’s life. An abusive childhood, an exemplary military career, the responsibility of being a father; each situation brings its own set of challenges and, in the words of the author, “is about how we navigate conflict to overcome obstacles to achieve a goal.”
As a child, Bill Riley was subjected to extreme physical and emotional cruelty. The reader cannot fail to be horrified by the levels of violence he endured at the hands of his mother, but by the time he reached adulthood and enlisted in the US Air Force, he was already equipped with a well-honed capacity to survive.
The author outlines his previous involvement in the Middle East before returning to Iraq to support coalition operations in 2003, and the role of the US forces is usefully contextualised without the propaganda or sensationalism so often found within this genre. Events are recounted with compassion and candour, and the well-paced, hard-hitting military action is interspersed with moments of humour and passages of beautifully evocative and descriptive prose.
With the birth of his first child imminent, the author’s trepidation is palpable. He looks deep within himself and questions how he will handle being a father and the responsibilities inherent in that role. Through his encounters with children inside the war zone, along with flashbacks to his own boyhood, he identifies how adverse circumstances can provide valuable lessons for life.
Lt. Col. Bill Riley is a man of outstanding courage and conscience. His memoir is a gripping and remarkable read.
As a child, Bill Riley was subjected to extreme physical and emotional cruelty. The reader cannot fail to be horrified by the levels of violence he endured at the hands of his mother, but by the time he reached adulthood and enlisted in the US Air Force, he was already equipped with a well-honed capacity to survive.
The author outlines his previous involvement in the Middle East before returning to Iraq to support coalition operations in 2003, and the role of the US forces is usefully contextualised without the propaganda or sensationalism so often found within this genre. Events are recounted with compassion and candour, and the well-paced, hard-hitting military action is interspersed with moments of humour and passages of beautifully evocative and descriptive prose.
With the birth of his first child imminent, the author’s trepidation is palpable. He looks deep within himself and questions how he will handle being a father and the responsibilities inherent in that role. Through his encounters with children inside the war zone, along with flashbacks to his own boyhood, he identifies how adverse circumstances can provide valuable lessons for life.
Lt. Col. Bill Riley is a man of outstanding courage and conscience. His memoir is a gripping and remarkable read.
July 9, 2022
Bill Riley is no stranger to violence. When growing up in a military family in New York, his mother beat him senseless whenever she felt that he needed to be reminded of his annoying existence and the cause of her unwanted marriage. At the same time his father pushes him into unwanted fights with bigger school bullies to strengthen his resolve and show his mettle and manliness. In his well-written book on his life as a child, adult, air force officer and father, Riley documents his struggles in life: How he works as a communications and information technology specialist in the military but finds himself in all kinds of firefights in Baghdad. How he anguishes over the choice of crushing a swarm of young children who have purposely immobilized his Humvee by crawling into the wheel bay of his vehicle while he observes their leader trying to use a cell phone to blow up the vehicle. How he agonizes over starting a family, fearing that he will follow the footsteps of his abusive parents.
This colorful, candid, searing and insightful story documents the absurdities of a war. It discusses how war can forge everlasting bonds between some of its characters, while leaving others in drunken stupor when faced with difficulties. The narrative shows how determination, character and love can help an individual overcome seemingly overwhelming odds. A masterful story worth its place on everyone’s bookshelf.
This colorful, candid, searing and insightful story documents the absurdities of a war. It discusses how war can forge everlasting bonds between some of its characters, while leaving others in drunken stupor when faced with difficulties. The narrative shows how determination, character and love can help an individual overcome seemingly overwhelming odds. A masterful story worth its place on everyone’s bookshelf.
October 6, 2024
Bill Riley’s unflinching exploration of themes such as war, duty, courage, loss, and the sharp turns life can take that break us apart and then put us back together again, stronger and wiser than before, makes readers sit up and take notice. Profoundly affecting, this book stands out as one of the best I’ve read in a long time.
May 21, 2021
Hands down the BEST book I’ve read this year!!
I finished reading Bill Riley’s book and had to sit a few moments to digest all I had read. Riley’s well-written and superbly delivered narrative had gripped me from the start and did not loosen its grip on me until the end.
I ran the gauntlet of emotions in this memoir and I loved every high (and even the lows). And no one can dispute Riley’s phenomenal sense of humour either. I laughed so hard and so loud in parts that it earned me some weird side-eye from my teenage sons.
This author undoubtedly has a grasp of storytelling and I gasped when exactly at the 50% mark of the book, he brought us back around to what was happening in the opening chapter (after spending the first half of the book explaining how he got to that point). Skilful and clever writing!
With a son heading into the armed forces, I lapped up every second of military life Riley shared. In fact, I’ve encouraged my young man to read this book!
What a refreshing read to see a man—who by childhood design and career choice must appear a tough nut—be so open, vulnerable and humble with his thoughts and fears on the page. Bravo, Bill. As a mother of four sons, I applaud you for this.
Thank you for taking me on a journey to hot dusty market places with fragrant tea and sweet nutty delights, and then carrying me off to tropical waters, before taking me into the heart of your home and family.
I finished reading Bill Riley’s book and had to sit a few moments to digest all I had read. Riley’s well-written and superbly delivered narrative had gripped me from the start and did not loosen its grip on me until the end.
I ran the gauntlet of emotions in this memoir and I loved every high (and even the lows). And no one can dispute Riley’s phenomenal sense of humour either. I laughed so hard and so loud in parts that it earned me some weird side-eye from my teenage sons.
This author undoubtedly has a grasp of storytelling and I gasped when exactly at the 50% mark of the book, he brought us back around to what was happening in the opening chapter (after spending the first half of the book explaining how he got to that point). Skilful and clever writing!
With a son heading into the armed forces, I lapped up every second of military life Riley shared. In fact, I’ve encouraged my young man to read this book!
What a refreshing read to see a man—who by childhood design and career choice must appear a tough nut—be so open, vulnerable and humble with his thoughts and fears on the page. Bravo, Bill. As a mother of four sons, I applaud you for this.
Thank you for taking me on a journey to hot dusty market places with fragrant tea and sweet nutty delights, and then carrying me off to tropical waters, before taking me into the heart of your home and family.
May 18, 2020
This well-written book covers adversities the author faced growing up both outside his home and at home where he should have been able to feel safe. Then it carries us through a substantial part of his career in the Air Force and his time as an officer deployed to the Middle East. Those two periods of his life are so different that, not knowing any better, would seem to be the stories of two different people. Skillfully intertwined in the middle of the story, they paint an amazing picture of survival and transformation that many couldn’t endure. So many others have been crushed by circumstances of their childhoods, and reading about the author’s journey underscored for me, the positive impact a few key people entering the picture at the right time can have on a life.
I read it twice. In the end, I was left knowing that this book covered only a portion of the author’s life experience, and I wanted to know more about the characters. For me, that’s the sign of a great story.
I read it twice. In the end, I was left knowing that this book covered only a portion of the author’s life experience, and I wanted to know more about the characters. For me, that’s the sign of a great story.
December 29, 2020
Whatever genre you enjoy reading, you'll enjoy this.
You know those books that you read, and you just sit there after, gazing into space?
Well ... Bill Riley's, Baghdaddy has got me sitting at the table right now. Just gazing ...
One of the best books I've ever read.
Ever. Read.
Raw. Honest. Authentic. Compassionate. Rich with humanity. And a good dose of "edge of my seat" stuff.
And so freaking interesting - omg, no words. Loved the insight into the type of intelligence and communication work he did.
The interweaving of different parts of his life is 👍 One section, he recounted a childhood experience and shortly after, he takes the reader back to Baghdad and I'm hanging on every word bcos I'm making links to that childhood experience and understanding just how he was able to save his life and that of a couple of colleagues. Crikey!
Bill Riley, you smashed this one out of the ballpark.
You know those books that you read, and you just sit there after, gazing into space?
Well ... Bill Riley's, Baghdaddy has got me sitting at the table right now. Just gazing ...
One of the best books I've ever read.
Ever. Read.
Raw. Honest. Authentic. Compassionate. Rich with humanity. And a good dose of "edge of my seat" stuff.
And so freaking interesting - omg, no words. Loved the insight into the type of intelligence and communication work he did.
The interweaving of different parts of his life is 👍 One section, he recounted a childhood experience and shortly after, he takes the reader back to Baghdad and I'm hanging on every word bcos I'm making links to that childhood experience and understanding just how he was able to save his life and that of a couple of colleagues. Crikey!
Bill Riley, you smashed this one out of the ballpark.
September 1, 2020
A War Memoir with a difference. Raw and Powerful.
From a difficult childhood to Lieutenant Colonel in the US Air Force, this is a remarkable story of fortitude and survival on several levels. We learn not just about the intricacies of the military presence in Kuwait and Iraq, but also about the author’s childhood, growing up and surviving in an abusive family situation. His attention to detail, both in his military training and work, but also in his ability to describe and remember smaller details of his childhood, really bring this memoir to life. Ultimately this is a message of hope in adversity, reconciliation in a time of war, and peace during conflict.
From a difficult childhood to Lieutenant Colonel in the US Air Force, this is a remarkable story of fortitude and survival on several levels. We learn not just about the intricacies of the military presence in Kuwait and Iraq, but also about the author’s childhood, growing up and surviving in an abusive family situation. His attention to detail, both in his military training and work, but also in his ability to describe and remember smaller details of his childhood, really bring this memoir to life. Ultimately this is a message of hope in adversity, reconciliation in a time of war, and peace during conflict.
September 1, 2020
This author, when writing this story, left himself bare - held nothing back, and you will continuously be humbled by his compassion and courage. This is a movie worthy making story of someone's real life. He is detailed in chronicling his military history, so losing interest will only happen if you can't stay focused during those passages. Need inspiration on coming out of a really dark place and rising far above it, read this book!
October 3, 2020
I didn’t know exactly what to expect from this book but sure I didn’t expect to be captivated so much by the story and the fact that is a memoir makes it even more valuable. One of those book/story that simply stays with you.
December 26, 2019
We often describe people and events with simple adjectives as if they are one-dimensional. But we are not portrayed accurately by a single descriptor. Baghdaddy dives into this complexity. A place can be hellish without being absent of beauty or people act kind without being loving. Each character defies a simplistic interpretation even when it would be easier to dismiss some as hopeless and see others as saviors.
While set in Lt Col Riley’s childhood and Iraq, this is not simply a war memoir. Baghdaddy is relatable even if the place and experiences are foreign because its complexity exists in all our lives. Some of the worst experiences lead to deep friendships and a belief that people can be good despite the abundance of evil. Today, many voices characterize things in absolutes, but Bahgdaddy reminds us that absolutes don't exist in the real world.
Its vivid descriptions and fast pace makes Baghdaddy an engaging book that was hard to put down. I find it even harder to stop thinking about. The ultimately hopeful message pulled from experiences that could have easily led to cynicism and bitterness is something that inspired me and I will carry with me.
While set in Lt Col Riley’s childhood and Iraq, this is not simply a war memoir. Baghdaddy is relatable even if the place and experiences are foreign because its complexity exists in all our lives. Some of the worst experiences lead to deep friendships and a belief that people can be good despite the abundance of evil. Today, many voices characterize things in absolutes, but Bahgdaddy reminds us that absolutes don't exist in the real world.
Its vivid descriptions and fast pace makes Baghdaddy an engaging book that was hard to put down. I find it even harder to stop thinking about. The ultimately hopeful message pulled from experiences that could have easily led to cynicism and bitterness is something that inspired me and I will carry with me.
February 10, 2025
Powerful. Gripping. Emotional and deep. There are places that will rip your heart out as well as places where the joy or peace feel as palpable as if you were the one experiencing it instead of just reading about it.
Don't be put off by the title. He isn't saying Saddam was a good father. This book is about abuse and war and survival. More importantly though, it's about lessons in courage, strength, perseverance, and a deep goodness that were learned in the midst of what felt like too much darkness to ever produce any light.
This was a very difficult read. I had to tackle it in several small chunks as it was too much to take in all at once. The writing is excellent and superbly done, but the content matter in places is hard to face, especially the memories from his childhood. That being said though, it was also a great read. This book will leave its mark on you long after the last page has been turned.
Don't be put off by the title. He isn't saying Saddam was a good father. This book is about abuse and war and survival. More importantly though, it's about lessons in courage, strength, perseverance, and a deep goodness that were learned in the midst of what felt like too much darkness to ever produce any light.
This was a very difficult read. I had to tackle it in several small chunks as it was too much to take in all at once. The writing is excellent and superbly done, but the content matter in places is hard to face, especially the memories from his childhood. That being said though, it was also a great read. This book will leave its mark on you long after the last page has been turned.
April 27, 2020
Most militerary tell alls aren't anything more than a ghost writer sucking up to the six months a spec ops dude spent in Iraq in 2004. I was MORE than pleasantly surprised that this book was not that. In this book we're given a human element in a genre that more often than not centers around an unrelatable braggart. As a combat veteran, I can tell you that most of those books are complete BS, and Baghdaddy is a breath of fresh air. This book isn't all blood guts. Bill Riley tells us his story from a very personable perspective and actually elicits emotion in a story that has true meaning. If you're tired of Navy Seals and Green Berets insisting that you recognize how cool they are for 300 pages and want a REAL story, READ THIS BOOK!
April 14, 2020
I have just finished reading Bill Riley's memoir, Baghdaddy. What can I say? The book is so praiseworthy. It relates his hard childhood and your heart goes out to the little boy, yet amid the pain and anger shines his intelligence, honesty and resilience - all attributes he demonstrates in adulthood when facing combat. I remember seeing on the news those troubled, difficult and complicated months in Iraq and reading this memoir gives an insider's view and experience. The descriptive prose is wonderful. He finds the right wat to convey each episode. Congratulations to Bill. Highly recommended.
June 24, 2024
Baghdaddy: How Saddam Hussein Taught Me to Be a Better Father by Bill Riley is a poignant memoir that chronicles the author's turbulent upbringing and military career. Raised in a violent household with a mentally ill mother and an absent father, Riley's early life was marked by harshness and physical abuse. Enlisting in the Air Force after high school, he navigated war-torn regions like Kuwait, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia, excelling in intelligence analysis and special operations support. This heartfelt narrative explores Riley's quest for self-improvement and resilience, illustrating the universal struggle to become the best version of oneself despite life's challenges
August 24, 2022
Baghdaddy was a fascinating read and I enjoyed it immensely.
It starts with the author describing his early home life in brutal honesty before moving onto his career in the US Air Force stationed in Kuwait and Iraq. Tough lessons from his childhood form important flashbacks in the storytelling and build a picture into how he and many others coped in extreme and trying circumstances.
This is a well written and gripping story with plenty of life lessons and insights. I highly recommend it.
It starts with the author describing his early home life in brutal honesty before moving onto his career in the US Air Force stationed in Kuwait and Iraq. Tough lessons from his childhood form important flashbacks in the storytelling and build a picture into how he and many others coped in extreme and trying circumstances.
This is a well written and gripping story with plenty of life lessons and insights. I highly recommend it.
August 21, 2019
Baghdaddy
I really enjoyed this book. Bill’s passion and integrity shines through, and he portrays a vivid picture of his experiences. Loved the eloquence of his descriptions of Baghdad.
I really enjoyed this book. Bill’s passion and integrity shines through, and he portrays a vivid picture of his experiences. Loved the eloquence of his descriptions of Baghdad.
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July 10, 2019MWSA Review
Baghdaddy: How Saddam Hussein Taught Me to Be a Better Father by Bill Riley is an insightful look at a time in history and into the life of a real warrior. It is an emotional journey that is so well told it feels like a classic novel. The author has a great way with words so that it feels like art on a canvas of paper and words. This book captures a piece of our lives and times that most of us just saw on the television news. The author constructs a background story of his childhood that allows the reader an insightful understanding of who this man was and why he saw his world around him as he did. His childhood was one of abuse and violence from his own father, all of which sets the outlook on the life of the author, as he treads down his own passageway of life. Lessons learned in childhood not only helped him deal with the war itself but also with his own fatherhood. The author is a talented wordsmith. The narrative truly fixes images into the mind and heart of the reader—a well written human experience, not just a war memoir.
Review by Bill McDonald (July 2019)
Baghdaddy: How Saddam Hussein Taught Me to Be a Better Father by Bill Riley is an insightful look at a time in history and into the life of a real warrior. It is an emotional journey that is so well told it feels like a classic novel. The author has a great way with words so that it feels like art on a canvas of paper and words. This book captures a piece of our lives and times that most of us just saw on the television news. The author constructs a background story of his childhood that allows the reader an insightful understanding of who this man was and why he saw his world around him as he did. His childhood was one of abuse and violence from his own father, all of which sets the outlook on the life of the author, as he treads down his own passageway of life. Lessons learned in childhood not only helped him deal with the war itself but also with his own fatherhood. The author is a talented wordsmith. The narrative truly fixes images into the mind and heart of the reader—a well written human experience, not just a war memoir.
Review by Bill McDonald (July 2019)
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