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G.I. Joe & Lillie
Thousands of Americans left homes and families to fight against great evil during World War II. I was privileged to know many of them. After reading this remarkable book, I also feel that I know G.I. Joe and Lillie, real Americans who met the challenge. My thanks to Joe Bonsall for sharing this story.
Senator Bob Dole
I loved it. It moved me to tears. It reminds us all that America’s core values of love, loyalty, and faith are build upon compassion and commitment within each family.
Dr. Laura Schlessinger
It is one of the best stories about pleasure and hardship I have ever read.
Chuck Yeager
I’ve heard Joe Bonsall and the Oak Ridge Boys sing many times. Now I see the Joe writes as well as he sings – and presents a wonderful, true story in G.I. Joe and Lillie.
Dr. Robert Schuller
The sacrifices of the “G.I. Joes and Lillies” during WWII, and their subsequent adjustment to normal life is a story which we can all identify.
Dick Clark
A great story of enduring faith and true commitment….
Dr. Pat Robertson
Senator Bob Dole
I loved it. It moved me to tears. It reminds us all that America’s core values of love, loyalty, and faith are build upon compassion and commitment within each family.
Dr. Laura Schlessinger
It is one of the best stories about pleasure and hardship I have ever read.
Chuck Yeager
I’ve heard Joe Bonsall and the Oak Ridge Boys sing many times. Now I see the Joe writes as well as he sings – and presents a wonderful, true story in G.I. Joe and Lillie.
Dr. Robert Schuller
The sacrifices of the “G.I. Joes and Lillies” during WWII, and their subsequent adjustment to normal life is a story which we can all identify.
Dick Clark
A great story of enduring faith and true commitment….
Dr. Pat Robertson
141 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2003
26 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
January 23, 2019
WOW!!! An excellent book. The story comes out of WW2. The story revolves around a family that finds a way or makes one to survive the trials and heartaches of post-war problems.
Highly recommend this book.
Highly recommend this book.
March 20, 2024
This was my husband’s favorite book. It is heartwarming and a reminder of the amazing men and women who fought for our nation. It inspired me to love completely and sacrificially. It is a true story of unsung heroes of America, the everyday people who fought because they lived our nation!
September 17, 2010
This was the first book that made me cry. I thought it was such a tribute to a loving couple. I read it a few years ago, but I plan to read it again.
September 25, 2020
One of the Oakridge Boys tells the story of his parents . Their love and loyalty to each other, service to our country, and faith were inspiring to read during our morning time together.
April 5, 2024
I like World War 2 biographies.
May 31, 2016
There is no greater love than when a child honors his parents, and in G.I. Joe & Lillie, Oak Ridge Boys tenor Joseph S. Bonsall pays a beautiful tribute to his parents Joe and Lillie Bonsall with a beautifully written memoir as a testament of their true love for each other.
G.I. Joe and Lillie's love story begins when they are called to duty in World War II. Joe was a street kid from Philly and Lillie was a farmer's daughter from Roanoke Rapids, NC. Both had a difficult childhood and left high school in the 9th grade, and both had a desire to help the war effort in the best way that they could. Joe & Lillie's journey began in May 1943, when at the age of eighteen, Joe enlisted in the Army, while Lillie left home in 1943 at the age of sixteen and worked in a defense plant in Michigan before joining the Women's Army Corps. (WAC) at the age of seventeen in August 1944. These two young people met, fell in love, married, and served their nation in the armed forces. They had a special marriage that spanned fifty-five years, one that was based on love, faith, loyalty, commitment, and dedication to each other, no matter what trials and tribulations that they faced through the years.
Since his childhood, Author Joe Bonsall has been fascinated with the idiosyncrasies of war, so in addition to sharing G.I. Joe and Lillie's story with the reader, he interweaves a richly descriptive and historical account of World War II, with photos interspersed throughout the book.
G.I. Joe & Lillie is an inspirational and compelling memoir that documents the lives of two American heroes, their love, and the memories that will remain forever in the author and his family's heart. You can't help but feel the patriotism and pride that runs throughout the story, and feel the enduring love and deep family values that kept G.I Joe & Lillie's marriage going throughout the years. This lovely memoir will make the reader pause and consider what our military personnel go through as they serve overseas, and the serious trauma and other effects (PTSD) that they face when they come home, and how their families provide the love, support, and perseverance to help them get through it with dignity, honor, and grace.
G.I. Joe & Lillie is an emotional memoir that will tug at the heartstrings and stir the soul.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
G.I. Joe and Lillie's love story begins when they are called to duty in World War II. Joe was a street kid from Philly and Lillie was a farmer's daughter from Roanoke Rapids, NC. Both had a difficult childhood and left high school in the 9th grade, and both had a desire to help the war effort in the best way that they could. Joe & Lillie's journey began in May 1943, when at the age of eighteen, Joe enlisted in the Army, while Lillie left home in 1943 at the age of sixteen and worked in a defense plant in Michigan before joining the Women's Army Corps. (WAC) at the age of seventeen in August 1944. These two young people met, fell in love, married, and served their nation in the armed forces. They had a special marriage that spanned fifty-five years, one that was based on love, faith, loyalty, commitment, and dedication to each other, no matter what trials and tribulations that they faced through the years.
Since his childhood, Author Joe Bonsall has been fascinated with the idiosyncrasies of war, so in addition to sharing G.I. Joe and Lillie's story with the reader, he interweaves a richly descriptive and historical account of World War II, with photos interspersed throughout the book.
G.I. Joe & Lillie is an inspirational and compelling memoir that documents the lives of two American heroes, their love, and the memories that will remain forever in the author and his family's heart. You can't help but feel the patriotism and pride that runs throughout the story, and feel the enduring love and deep family values that kept G.I Joe & Lillie's marriage going throughout the years. This lovely memoir will make the reader pause and consider what our military personnel go through as they serve overseas, and the serious trauma and other effects (PTSD) that they face when they come home, and how their families provide the love, support, and perseverance to help them get through it with dignity, honor, and grace.
G.I. Joe & Lillie is an emotional memoir that will tug at the heartstrings and stir the soul.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
August 23, 2017
Oh. My. Goodness. I LOVED THIS BOOK!! This is seriously the sweetest, best love story I have like ever read. It's definitely not the usual – boy meets girl, boy kisses girl, they get married and live happily ever after. Uh, nope. More like this – girl meets boy, girl kisses boy, they get married, their marriage last 55 years through many ups and downs, happiness and heartache. Yep, it's soooo good.
All that said, I have to add, this is the best book (I'm so repetitive) I've ever read to show that just because the soldiers are home, the war isn't over for them. The memories will always remain. The nightmares are there.
And then what came later on... :'( I was totally not expecting that!! (I'd like to call it a plot twist, but it's a nonfiction book. xD)
So yeah. If you want to cry over the cruelty of war, read this book. If you want to get that swelling, patriotic feeling deep in your heart, read this book. If you want to be inspired by an amazing true story of love and loyalty no matter what, read this book.
All that said, I have to add, this is the best book (I'm so repetitive) I've ever read to show that just because the soldiers are home, the war isn't over for them. The memories will always remain. The nightmares are there.
And then what came later on... :'( I was totally not expecting that!! (I'd like to call it a plot twist, but it's a nonfiction book. xD)
So yeah. If you want to cry over the cruelty of war, read this book. If you want to get that swelling, patriotic feeling deep in your heart, read this book. If you want to be inspired by an amazing true story of love and loyalty no matter what, read this book.
June 12, 2012
This is a beautiful love story with an ending so tender and triumphant - in the eternal sense - the story lingers in my heart and mind. I left the book wishing I had met Lillie and could glean from her faith, take in a bit of her wisdom, or share a laugh.
Lillie and her G. I. Joe were both heroes who fought the war together for years after peace was dclared and the battle fields cleared. The author writes their story with transparency - a courageous thing for a son to do.
Lillie and her G. I. Joe were both heroes who fought the war together for years after peace was dclared and the battle fields cleared. The author writes their story with transparency - a courageous thing for a son to do.
April 24, 2017
Amazing, moving story of a GI and the lady who fell in love with him ... True story but, I won't give a 'spoiler.' A must read for music fans, Oak Ridge Boys' fans and anyone who loves a touching story, love stories and God. The Oaks' Joe Bonsall has proved himself to be, not only the consummate entertainer but, also, an excellent story-teller.
November 5, 2010
Sooo enjoyable! Touching and really fun to read. This is a quick read and very engaging.
May 28, 2011
I can't even find the words to tell you how beautiful this book is. A sweet & true love story full of patriotism, perserverance and family values.
November 20, 2013
What a beautiful tribute to two great people!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lQk27... (Have a tissue in hand)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lQk27... (Have a tissue in hand)
July 27, 2020
What can I say? It's a true story, set mostly during/around WWII, and it's about love (so a little romance) and imperfect people who are also loyal. It is also a book showing highest honor to one's parents/heritage.
Setting: G.I. Joe was born in Philadelphia and Lillie was born in North Carolina, but the story takes these characters all over the country, and also across the pond to the beaches of Normandy. A large part of the book is set during WWII (G.I. Joe turned 18 in 1943), but G.I. Joe and Lillie's lives are also documented in their later years, until 2001.
There were several aspects to this book that I liked. One: the true story aspect. Two: the photographs interspersed throughout the story. Three: Lillie. Four: Lillie's loyalty, compassion, determination, and her entire personality. Five: G.I. Joe, because who wouldn't love a WWII private soldier hero with serious struggles? In some instances he reminded me of my own grandfather. Six: the details of the World War II terms, whether it be the planes, the divisions/regiments/armies (I never can get all those numbers straight), or various acronyms.
I know everyone doesn't have the miraculous, heartwarming story of Joe Bonsall's parents, but I believe there should be more stories of real people, more books devoted to honoring the legacies of one's parents, grandparents, or other ancestors. Our history should never be forgotten, and this book is a step in the right direction.
Setting: G.I. Joe was born in Philadelphia and Lillie was born in North Carolina, but the story takes these characters all over the country, and also across the pond to the beaches of Normandy. A large part of the book is set during WWII (G.I. Joe turned 18 in 1943), but G.I. Joe and Lillie's lives are also documented in their later years, until 2001.
There were several aspects to this book that I liked. One: the true story aspect. Two: the photographs interspersed throughout the story. Three: Lillie. Four: Lillie's loyalty, compassion, determination, and her entire personality. Five: G.I. Joe, because who wouldn't love a WWII private soldier hero with serious struggles? In some instances he reminded me of my own grandfather. Six: the details of the World War II terms, whether it be the planes, the divisions/regiments/armies (I never can get all those numbers straight), or various acronyms.
I know everyone doesn't have the miraculous, heartwarming story of Joe Bonsall's parents, but I believe there should be more stories of real people, more books devoted to honoring the legacies of one's parents, grandparents, or other ancestors. Our history should never be forgotten, and this book is a step in the right direction.
July 27, 2020
Simply put this book will make you cry. Joseph Bonsall, of the famous Oak Ridge Boys, writes his parents story in the third person. His parents story is a great love story and he doesn't gloss over the hard times but you can see the love they all had for one another. His father always downplayed his role in the war and in plain English G.I. Joe is a true hero.
The men and women who go into the military really give up a lot for our country and they should never be forgotten. A true homage to all who have been and currently are in the military.
Also...do a youtube search on G.I. Joe & Lillie and listen / watch the Oak Ridge Boys perform the song that Joseph Bonsall wrote in honor of his mom and dad. You will not be disappointed.
The men and women who go into the military really give up a lot for our country and they should never be forgotten. A true homage to all who have been and currently are in the military.
Also...do a youtube search on G.I. Joe & Lillie and listen / watch the Oak Ridge Boys perform the song that Joseph Bonsall wrote in honor of his mom and dad. You will not be disappointed.
January 15, 2022
I found this at a library book sale. Of course, as a long-time fan of the Oak Ridge Boys I recognized Jon Bonsall's name. This info was all new to me about his parents. It was well-written and constructed. As an author of WWII books, I appreciated the way the military info was dispersed -- not heavy handed but accurate and informational. His mother's story of being poor and from a large family in the south was equally interesting. I've encouraged my husband to read it as well as he is retired military and loves stories about WWII.
February 24, 2024
This book was ok. I liked it, but it was definitely not the best book I have read.
A few things I liked about the book include: I appreciated how the background and childhood experiences were explained for both Lillie and Joe. I liked how the the author explained all of Joe's PTSD. I think the night mares and the emotional issues a solider has is sometimes glossed over. I liked how tough Lillie was. She was an admirable person and wasn't afraid to work hard. I loved the relationship Lillie and Joe had with one another.
Pretty good read.
A few things I liked about the book include: I appreciated how the background and childhood experiences were explained for both Lillie and Joe. I liked how the the author explained all of Joe's PTSD. I think the night mares and the emotional issues a solider has is sometimes glossed over. I liked how tough Lillie was. She was an admirable person and wasn't afraid to work hard. I loved the relationship Lillie and Joe had with one another.
Pretty good read.
May 20, 2019
This was such a heart-warming biography of 2 World War II veterans told by their son. It brought back so many memories of growing up as a "baby boomer" child with a veteran parent who taught love for country, devotion to a marriage and love for Jesus, and a commitment to work hard and provide for a family no matter how hard the trials. I watched the music video of the Oak Ridge Boys singing "G.I. Joe and Lillie" afterwards and it was such a great thing after reading their story.
November 3, 2021
GI Joe and Lillie by Joseph S. Bonsall is the story of his parents, Joseph Sloan Bonsall Sr (1925-2001) and Lillie Maude (nee Collins) Bonsall (1924-2001). From their very different childhoods to their journeys to their service to their country during WWII and their marriage and their lives together. They would have ups and downs, health issues but they refused to give up. They are an inspiration and an example of what it means to stand true to your commitment to each other.
September 7, 2024
beautifully written love story
I had to wipe my eyes many times reading this book. I loved this real life love story told by a loving son. I wish I had found it while the author was still alive so that I could send him a personal thank you for writing it but since he passed away 2 months ago, I will thank him here. Rest In Peace GI Joe and Lillie and thank you mighty Oak tenor Mr. Bonsall❤️
I had to wipe my eyes many times reading this book. I loved this real life love story told by a loving son. I wish I had found it while the author was still alive so that I could send him a personal thank you for writing it but since he passed away 2 months ago, I will thank him here. Rest In Peace GI Joe and Lillie and thank you mighty Oak tenor Mr. Bonsall❤️
March 23, 2021
Cleaning out the house of a loved one who passed away when I discover this amazing book. It was still in the box and had never been read. With so much sadness over our loss I was happy to find this little gem. I read it in one day and could not put it down. Love, love, love this sweet story! Such an inspiration at a time that I really needed it!
August 10, 2025
This is both a very personal book for the author and an example of what so many experienced following WWII as soldiers came back with both mental and physical wounds that they dealt with in their own ways. It's a story of love and devotion that overcomes the many obstacles that occur in life. Well written. Simple and straight forward.
March 17, 2019
This is a heartfelt homage to Bonsall's (a member of the Oak Ridge Boys singing group) parents, reminding us of families' lives both as service members and on the Homefront, as well the continued struggles and joys, long after WWII. A quick, heartwarming read.
February 7, 2020
I love this story and it’s another important reminder of the sacrifices of the men and woman during WWII. However, the writing was choppy and sometimes difficult to follow. Not my favorite writing style.
January 20, 2024
I love stories about overcoming difficult situations. I'm sorry for the families Joe and Lillie grew up with. What a gift they gave their children by loving each other and letting their children know they were deeply loved. Beautiful!
December 16, 2024
4⭐️
Read by Clark for story time during fall 2024 term of CCBCY. I laughed, I cried, and I enjoyed this story of resilience, daily life, and love thouroughly. Most of all I enjoyed the kind and wise narrator and his homemade hot chocolate.
Read by Clark for story time during fall 2024 term of CCBCY. I laughed, I cried, and I enjoyed this story of resilience, daily life, and love thouroughly. Most of all I enjoyed the kind and wise narrator and his homemade hot chocolate.
November 19, 2018
Love & loyalty
A thought-provoking recounting of one family's decision to endure. A refreshing recollection that faith and love can triumph over the hardships of life.
A thought-provoking recounting of one family's decision to endure. A refreshing recollection that faith and love can triumph over the hardships of life.
December 18, 2018
It made me cry and think a lot about my own family (in a good way) and how lucky I am. If you want a quick read about someone’s life (a normal everyday person who did remarkable things) read this.
January 15, 2020
Incredible
So great to get a touch of love and history. Respect of the family and just a well-written story. I was honored to read this book
So great to get a touch of love and history. Respect of the family and just a well-written story. I was honored to read this book
June 23, 2020
I couldn't put this book down. It was a very good read.
December 3, 2020
Beautiful true life story of love and war . So well written . A son telling story of his parents in the era of World War 2. Loved reading stories as these . A bittersweet ending.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews