Dave Han’s Reviews > Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice > Status Update

Finished Devotion, and I’ve been wondering why the book was named Devotion, and now I know it. That moment when Tom refuses to leave Jesse shows what true devotion really is. Loyalty beyond orders, beyond survival. The last section of the book reflects that, and it made the ending hit even harder. I enjoyed how the Makos was able to build tension, and while reading the book, I was fully engaged in the book.

Daisy receiving the letter after Jesse’s death really made me emotional. I felt heartbroken, especially since I was so deep into the story at that point. I didn’t expect to get this emotionally invested in a book and I am impressed by how Makos was able to show the lasting impact of sacrifice, not just in war but on the people left behind. How do families even move forward after something like this?

Hudner’s decision really questions me. I kept thinking, would I have done the same? The loyalty between him and Brown feels real, and I feel that they've made an incredible bond. I noticed how fear and duty clash here. I believe that Makos is trying to show how war forces impossible choices and highlights the meaning of sacrifice and friendship. How does someone even decide in that moment?

The intensity of the book is increasing as the war gets intense, with the Chinese joining the battle. I am amazed by how Makos gives the readers meticulous detail about the plan for an attack, allowing me to understand and be more focused on the story. Also, I'm curious if Coderre survived the grenade explosion. I like how the author continues the tensions of the battle by not showing if he survived the explosion.

I was struck by the moment when Tom flies back through enemy fire instead of leaving his wingman behind. I saw how strong their loyalty was, and it made me think about courage as acting despite feeling scared. This story feels more personal because I'm Korean, and this pulled me deeper into what comes next. I wonder why Tom chose to risk his life to turn back for his wingman, even when the odds were against him.

I was inspired watching Jesse face enemy fire and freezing temps, and amazed that Tom rejected Harvard to serve his country, showing real determination and bravery. I started to admire him for that. Their friendship continues to grow, and Jesse’s thoughts of Daisy made me see his courage and sacrifices. I felt empathetic toward Daisy, knowing Jesse might not return from a mission.

I’m starting to see the bond forming between Jesse and Tom during squadron life. Their first interaction was awkward. However, Jesse proves himself under pressure, and Tom grows to respect him. I believe that the Andover ring shows the different paths they had in life. Tom had a smoother journey, while Jesse faced racism and hardship. Adam Makos is showing the two men, from distinct backgrounds, growing together.

Something I will keep an eye on is the relationship between Tom and Jesse as I read Devotion. Tom is shown as an 8th grader in a strict school where even sitting with the opposite gender could lead to ridicule, and he follows the rules. This makes his later friendship with Jesse more meaningful. I think Makos is showing how personal connections can challenge and overcome the rules and prejudices people grow up with.