Book Review: The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien

Genre: Fiction
Ages: 14 and Up
Rating: 10/10

     What a powerful read. This book is quite honestly one of the best I've ever read. O'Brien's powerful storytelling connects readers to the deeply emotional experiences of the soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War, in a way that no documentary or history textbook ever could. More importantly though, this anecdotal work of fiction carries a timeless message about grief and hope, which is certainly applicable to any individual that just so happens to pick up a copy of this book. If you are unfamiliar with the writings of Tim O'Brien, I highly recommend that you check out The Things They Carried. The deeply heartfelt truths displayed in this novel are unlike any I have ever read before, and I know that anyone who wants to better their understanding of themselves and the world will genuinely appreciate it.

About: 
     Tim O'Brien was just a boy when we was drafted into the Vietnam War. Within a matter of months, his entire world was turned upside down. The distinction between reality and fantasy suddenly become blurred, and before he knew it he was surrounded by a sea of memories, some terribly melancholic, and others triumphantly joyous. As O'Brien recounts his stories from the war, he simultaneously reveals the heat-rending effects that tragedies can have on an individual.

Memorable Quote: 
"War is hell, but that's not the half of it, because war is also mystery and terror and adventure and courage and discovery and holiness and pity and despair and longing and love. War is nasty; war is fun. War is thrilling; war is drudgery. War makes you a man; war makes you dead."

     Have you read The Things They Carried, or any other war story before? If so, tell us what you thought about it right here at Reading Soup! It's always a pleasure to hear your literary thoughts and opinions. Have a great day, and keep on reading!

-The Soup Chef