The Greatest Books of All Time on Vietnam War
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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 410 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.
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1. The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien
The book is a collection of linked short stories about a platoon of American soldiers fighting in the Vietnam War. The story is semi-autobiographical, based on the author's experiences in the war. The narrative explores the physical and emotional burdens the soldiers carry during the war, as well as the lingering effects of war on veterans. It delves into themes of bravery, truth, and the fluidity of fact and fiction.
The 351st Greatest Book of All Time -
2. American Pastoral by Philip Roth
This novel tells the story of Seymour "Swede" Levov, a successful Jewish-American businessman and former high school athlete from Newark, New Jersey. Levov's happy and conventional upper middle class life is ruined by the domestic social and political turmoil of the 1960s during the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson, which in the novel is seen through the eyes of the narrator, Nathan Zuckerman, a budding writer who idolizes the Levovs. The novel portrays the impact of this turmoil on Levov and his family, particularly his rebellious daughter who becomes involved in revolutionary political activities.
The 402nd Greatest Book of All Time -
3. Rabbit Redux by John Updike
The novel is a sequel in a series following the life of Harry "Rabbit" Angstrom, a middle-aged man living in a small Pennsylvania town. When his wife leaves him for another man, he finds himself alone and struggling to make sense of the rapidly changing world around him. In his loneliness, he takes in a young runaway and her racially divisive boyfriend, leading to a series of events that force Rabbit to confront his own prejudices and fears. The book is a vivid portrayal of the American social and political climate of the 1960s.
The 474th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving
The book is a tale of two childhood friends, one of whom believes he is God's instrument. The story is set in a New England town during the 1950s and 1960s and follows the lives of the two boys, one small and with a strange voice, who has visions of his own death and believes he is an instrument of God, and the other, the narrator, who struggles with faith. The novel explores themes of faith, fate, and the power of friendship against a backdrop of historical and political events, including the Vietnam War.
The 523rd Greatest Book of All Time -
5. Dispatches by Michael Herr
This book is a first-hand account of the Vietnam War from a war correspondent's perspective. The author vividly describes the chaos, violence, and absurdity of the war, providing a raw and unfiltered look at the experiences of soldiers on the ground. The narrative is filled with gritty details and intense imagery, capturing the fear, boredom, and disillusionment that characterized the war. The book is considered a classic of war reportage, lauded for its honest and brutal portrayal of the realities of combat.
The 609th Greatest Book of All Time -
6. The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen
"The Sympathizer" is a gripping spy novel set during the Vietnam War. The protagonist is a half-French, half-Vietnamese army captain who is a communist double agent. After the Fall of Saigon, he moves to America with other South Vietnamese refugees and struggles to reconcile his dual loyalties as he continues to spy on his fellow countrymen in exile. The novel explores themes of identity, war, and politics, while providing a unique perspective on the Vietnam War and its aftermath.
The 760th Greatest Book of All Time -
7. The Armies of the Night by Norman Mailer
History as a Novel, the Novel as History
This book is a unique blend of historical fact and autobiographical fiction, providing a detailed account of the October 1967 March on the Pentagon. It describes the author's experiences during the anti-Vietnam War demonstrations, where he was arrested and spent the night in jail. The narrative explores the author's interactions with other protesters, his observations on the nature of political activism, and his personal reflections on the Vietnam War. It also delves into the author's struggles with his personal beliefs and his role as a public figure during this turbulent period in American history.
The 2392nd Greatest Book of All Time -
8. Dusklands by J. M. Coetzee
Two Novellas
"Dusklands" is a novel divided into two distinct parts, each examining the theme of imperialism. The first part follows a psychologically unstable American government researcher during the Vietnam War, who is tasked with developing propaganda to justify the conflict. The second part is a historical narrative set in the 18th century, exploring the violent colonization of South Africa by the Dutch. The stories parallel each other, highlighting the destructive nature of imperialism and the psychological effects it has on individuals.
The 2685th Greatest Book of All Time -
9. Machine Dreams by Jayne Anne Phillips
"Machine Dreams" is a novel that explores the lives of the Hampson family, set against the backdrop of major American events from the Great Depression through the Vietnam War. Told from different perspectives, the book delves into the individual and collective experiences of the family, their relationships, and their struggles. It provides an intimate look at the impact of war, economic hardship, and societal changes on a typical American family.
The 2810th Greatest Book of All Time -
10. Tree of Smoke by Denis Johnson
"Tree of Smoke" is a war novel that explores the chaos, violence, and moral ambiguity of the Vietnam War. The story follows a diverse cast of characters, including a CIA operative, a young soldier, and a pair of missionaries, all of whom are trying to navigate the uncertainties and horrors of the war. The novel delves into themes of faith, fate, and the human capacity for both good and evil, offering a gritty and complex portrait of a turbulent period in history.
The 2971st Greatest Book of All Time -
11. The Sorrow Of War by Bao Ninh
The book is a poignant tale about a North Vietnamese soldier, Kien, and his experiences during and after the Vietnam War. It's a graphic and emotional exploration of the traumas of war, the loss of innocence, and the struggle to make sense of life post-conflict. The narrative is non-linear, shifting between his horrific war experiences, his post-war life in Hanoi, and his attempt to come to terms with his past. The novel also highlights the broader societal impact of the war, particularly on the Vietnamese people.
The 3284th Greatest Book of All Time -
12. Dog Soldiers by Robert Stone
In this novel, a disillusioned war correspondent, a morally compromised professor, and a woman caught between them become embroiled in a dangerous plot involving heroin smuggling from Vietnam to California. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of addiction, violence, and betrayal, the characters are forced to confront the devastating consequences of their choices. The book explores the dark underbelly of the American dream and the brutal realities of war.
The 3715th Greatest Book of All Time -
13. The Best And The Brightest by David Halberstam
The Men Who Led America into Vietnam
The book provides a critical examination of America's involvement in Vietnam, focusing on the political and military decisions made by the intellectuals and policymakers of the Kennedy and Johnson administrations. It delves into how the arrogance and flawed judgments of these highly educated and seemingly well-intentioned men led to disastrous consequences in Southeast Asia. The narrative combines deep research with extensive interviews, offering detailed portraits of the key figures and their decision-making processes, ultimately questioning the wisdom and morality of their actions during the Vietnam War.
The 3731st Greatest Book of All Time -
14. A Bright Shining Lie by Neil Sheehan
John Paul Vann and America in Vietnam
"A Bright Shining Lie" is a detailed account of the Vietnam War through the eyes of a charismatic and controversial American military advisor. The book provides an in-depth examination of the war, delving into the complex political and military strategies, the culture of corruption and deceit, and the impact on both Vietnamese civilians and American soldiers. The narrative also explores the protagonist's personal life, including his troubled marriage and his eventual disillusionment with the war. The book is not just a biography, but a critical analysis of the American involvement in Vietnam.
The 3774th Greatest Book of All Time -
15. Shadow 81 by Lucien Nahum
A Novel of Suspense
"Shadow 81" by Lucien Nahum is a gripping thriller that follows the life of an undercover agent, code-named Shadow 81, as he navigates a dangerous world of espionage and deception. Set against the backdrop of international espionage and political intrigue, the book takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. Shadow 81 must rely on his wit, skills, and instincts to uncover a sinister plot that threatens global security, all while trying to maintain his cover and protect his own life. With its fast-paced narrative and complex characters, "Shadow 81" keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
The 3863rd Greatest Book of All Time -
16. Nixonland by Rick Perlstein
The Rise of a President and the Fracturing of America
"Nixonland" is a detailed historical account of the political and social climate in America from the mid-1960s to mid-1970s, focusing on the rise and fall of President Richard Nixon. The book explores the divisive issues of the time, including the Vietnam War, civil rights, and the Watergate scandal, and how Nixon's manipulation of public fears and prejudices led to a new era of American conservatism. It also delves into the impact of these events on American politics and society, creating a landscape that still resonates today.
The 5953rd Greatest Book of All Time -
17. Falling Through The Earth by Danielle Trussoni
A Memoir
"Falling Through The Earth: A Memoir" is a powerful and poignant memoir by Danielle Trussoni that explores her relationship with her father, a Vietnam War veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Trussoni recounts her childhood memories of growing up with a father who was haunted by his experiences in the war and the impact it had on their family. She also shares her own journey of self-discovery and understanding as she confronts the legacy of her father's trauma and the toll it has taken on her own life. Through vivid and evocative prose, Trussoni offers a deeply personal and moving account of the lasting impact of war on those who have served and their loved ones.
The 7179th Greatest Book of All Time -
18. Going After Cacciato by Tim O'Brien
The novel is a surreal exploration of a young infantryman's experience in the Vietnam War. The protagonist and his squad are tasked with chasing down Cacciato, a fellow soldier who has gone AWOL and is attempting to walk from Vietnam to Paris. The narrative is interspersed with flashbacks and hallucinations, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy as the protagonist grapples with the horrors of war, the concept of courage, and the boundaries of sanity.
The 9126th Greatest Book of All Time -
19. Fire in the Lake by Frances FitzGerald
The Vietnamese and the Americans in Vietnam
This book is an in-depth analysis of the Vietnam War from the perspective of the Vietnamese people and culture. The author explores the historical, cultural, and social factors that contributed to the conflict, providing a comprehensive understanding of the war beyond the American involvement. It delves into the roots of Vietnamese nationalism, the impact of French colonialism, and the ideological differences between North and South Vietnam, giving the reader a nuanced view of this complex period in history.
The 9806th Greatest Book of All Time -
20. A Good Scent from a Strange Mountain by Robert Olen Butler
This collection of short stories provides a poignant look at the Vietnamese immigrant experience in America, specifically Louisiana. Each tale is told from the perspective of a different character, ranging from a former translator for the Australian army, to a woman who believes she is possessed by the spirit of Ho Chi Minh. The stories delve into themes of cultural identity, assimilation, memory, and the lingering effects of the Vietnam War, offering a deeply humanizing perspective on a community often marginalized or misunderstood.
The 10076th Greatest Book of All Time -
21. The Barracks Thief by Tobias Wolff
Set in an army base in Washington during the Vietnam War, this book follows three young paratroopers who are trying to navigate their way through the complexities of war, manhood, and their personal lives. Their experience is further complicated by a series of thefts happening in the barracks, causing suspicion and tension among the soldiers. The novel explores themes of camaraderie, betrayal, and the loss of innocence in a war-torn era.
The 10099th Greatest Book of All Time -
22. Paco's Story by Larry Heinemann
This novel follows the life of Paco Sullivan, the lone survivor of a Vietnam war massacre, as he struggles to reintegrate into civilian life. Haunted by the ghosts of his fallen comrades and burdened by survivor's guilt, Paco grapples with the physical and psychological scars of war while working as a dishwasher in a small Texas town. The narrative explores the harsh realities of post-war trauma and the societal neglect of veterans.
The 10019th Greatest Book of All Time -
23. Matterhorn by Karl Marlantes
A Novel of the Vietnam War
"Matterhorn" is a gripping novel set during the Vietnam War, focusing on a young Marine lieutenant and his comrades stationed at a remote jungle outpost. The narrative explores the physical and psychological challenges they face, from the harsh conditions and deadly combat to the internal conflicts and racial tensions within their own ranks. The story provides a raw, unfiltered depiction of war, revealing the bravery, fear, camaraderie, and moral dilemmas experienced by the soldiers.
The 10232nd Greatest Book of All Time -
24. Being Nixon by Evan Thomas
A Man Divided
This biography delves into the complex and often misunderstood life of a pivotal American president, exploring both his notable achievements and his notorious downfalls. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, the book paints a nuanced portrait of a man who was deeply ambitious yet plagued by self-doubt and a craving for approval. It sheds light on his significant contributions to foreign policy, including détente with the Soviet Union and opening relations with China, while also not shying away from the darker aspects of his presidency, such as the Watergate scandal that ultimately led to his resignation. By examining his personal and political life, the book attempts to understand the paradoxes of his character, offering readers a comprehensive view of a figure who has often been vilified or misunderstood.
The 10535th Greatest Book of All Time -
25. Tragic Magic by Wesley Brown
"Tragic Magic" is a novel about an African American man who, after being released from prison, struggles to reintegrate into society. The protagonist, a former civil rights activist and playwright, navigates through the complexities of life in a racially charged America, grappling with his past, his identity, and the societal pressures that come with being a black man in a predominantly white society. The narrative explores themes of race, identity, and the struggle for personal and political freedom.
The 10615th Greatest Book of All Time
Reading Statistics
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