Amazon.com
From the author of How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents comes this tale of courage and sisterhood set in the Dominican Republic during the rise of the Trujillo dictatorship. A skillful blend of fact and fiction, In the Time of the Butterflies is inspired by the true story of the three Mirabal sisters who, in 1960, were murdered for their part in an underground plot to overthrow the government. Alvarez breathes life into these historical figures--known as "las mariposas," or "the butterflies," in the underground--as she imagines their teenage years, their gradual involvement with the revolution, and their terror as their dissentience is uncovered.
Alvarez's controlled writing perfectly captures the mounting tension as "the butterflies" near their horrific end. The novel begins with the recollections of Dede, the fourth and surviving sister, who fears abandoning her routines and her husband to join the movement. Alvarez also offers the perspectives of the other sisters: brave and outspoken Minerva, the family's political ringleader; pious Patria, who forsakes her faith to join her sisters after witnessing the atrocities of the tyranny; and the baby sister, sensitive Maria Teresa, who, in a series of diaries, chronicles her allegiance to Minerva and the physical and spiritual anguish of prison life.
In the Time of the Butterflies is an American Library Association Notable Book and a 1995 National Book Critics Circle Award nominee.
Book Description
An ALA Notable Book. Julia Alvarez's eagerly awaited second novel is a powerful story of courage, innocence, and political martyrdom in the Hispanic Caribbean. Based on actual events--the death of three sisters on November 25, 1960--the novel immerses us in an epoch in the life of the Dominican Republic. The "Butterflies," as they were known, lived daringly and dangerously under a regime that imprisoned, tortured, and killed with impunity. "Brimming with warmth and vitality . . . Mesmerizing."--Kirkus Reviews, starred; "Potent and luminous."--Philadelphia Inquirer. A BOOK-OF-THE-MONTH CLUB and QUALITY PAPERBACK BOOK CLUB SELECTION.
Customer Reviews:
Very Moving.......2007-10-09
A well written fictionalized account of the revolutionary struggles against Trujillo by three of four sisters in the Dominican Replublic. Memorable. The trouble with fictionalized history for me is that after awhile the lines between fact and fiction blur and I don't remember fact from fiction. I tend to stay away from books like this because of my eventual confusion. But, this book is worth it.
After the book and the film.......2007-04-05
The story of the Mirabal sisters is alive and well today in the Dominican Republic. Still the generation that survived the Dicatorship of General Trujillo seats on elite ground in the Island of the Hispaniola.
Comparing the book , the film and the history we can see gaps, hits and misses. The true story of the island is still covered under a veil of mystery, still to this date most of the characters of the book; maybe even their killers walk freely and with no remorse.
The island in itself is a beautiful set, the human casualties of the Trujillo era has been uncovered ever so gently . Until just recently the horrors of the era were exposed and freely written by authors like Balaguer, in "La isla al revez", by Mario Vargas Llosa" La muerte del Chivo", and Julia Alvarez is brilliant in her descriptions.
She teaches in Middlebury College,VT; I personally love her writing style and descriptive style of colors,enviornments and characters.
Fantastic!.......2007-03-28
This books is absolutely fantastic. I personally really enjoy books that cover the same story from several points-of-view so I didn't find it confusing at all. The story is so moving, especially because it is based on real events. Even though I knew what was coming, by the end I broke down into sobs. Beautiful.
confusing.......2007-03-11
I found this book to be very confusing because of all the spanish names and words. It is really hard to keep track of all the characters also. Each chapter is a different sister. All the sisters are married or going out w/someone and then there are their children and on top of that are all the government officials. I was just lost throughout the whole book.
Las Mariposas.......2006-07-08
This book is really good because it is realistic and it shows the struggle of four young girls growing up in the Dominican Republic during the rise of the Trujillo dictatorship. The way it is written is a little bit odd since it shifts narrators between the four girls and they each talk about a different time period, but it is still very informative and hard to put down. And not only do I recommend this book, but the movie is also terrific and possibly a little easier to follow since it runs straight through without switching points of view.
Book Description
Based on remarkable new research, acclaimed historian Alexander Rose brings to life the true story of the spy ring that helped America win the Revolutionary War. For the first time, Rose takes us beyond the battlefront and deep into the shadowy underworld of double agents and triple crosses, covert operations and code breaking, and unmasks the courageous, flawed men who inhabited this wilderness of mirrors—including the spymaster at the heart of it all.
In the summer of 1778, with the war poised to turn in his favor, General George Washington desperately needed to know where the British would strike next. To that end, he unleashed his secret weapon: an unlikely ring of spies in New York charged with discovering the enemy’s battle plans and military strategy.
Washington’s small band included a young Quaker torn between political principle and family loyalty, a swashbuckling sailor addicted to the perils of espionage, a hard-drinking barkeep, a Yale-educated cavalryman and friend of the doomed Nathan Hale, and a peaceful, sickly farmer who begged Washington to let him retire but who always came through in the end. Personally guiding these imperfect everyday heroes was Washington himself. In an era when officers were gentlemen, and gentlemen didn’t spy, he possessed an extraordinary talent for deception—and proved an adept spymaster.
The men he mentored were dubbed the Culper Ring. The British secret service tried to hunt them down, but they escaped by the closest of shaves thanks to their ciphers, dead drops, and invisible ink. Rose’s thrilling narrative tells the unknown story of the Revolution–the murderous intelligence war, gunrunning and kidnapping, defectors and executioners—that has never appeared in the history books. But Washington’s Spies is also a spirited, touching account of friendship and trust, fear and betrayal, amid the dark and silent world of the spy.
Customer Reviews:
Washington's Spy Ring.......2007-07-14
The subject-of this book held great promise that was never realized. It did not capture what must have been exciting and dangerous events. They were described in a flat unemotional way. All sense of the great fear these men worked under to supply Washington with what he considered as vital information was missing. It was written like a text book rather than a vibrant unseen force bravely defeating the British attempts to catch them. These were rank amateurs up against the most powerful army in the world at that time. We could see their footprints in the sand of time, but no living bodies who made them.
New Side of George.......2007-07-12
Thoroughly researched and a fascinating look at a side of Washington that other histories do not show - his attention to detail. Also underscores the military bumbling by Washington (he was many things positive but NOT a great military leader), by the British commanders, and by the first French fleet. A "characters you will meet" reference section and an occasional 'cut-out' box of what was happening in the Revolution (both militarily and politically) would have both been helpful.
Plodding Effort on Little Known Topic.......2007-04-07
What should have been an interesting, illuminating history of a little known aspect of the Rev War becomes a plodding bore here. The author digresses incessantly, and concerns himself with a lot of local history of families, relatives, etc. The actual work of the Culper Spy Ring in New York City during the British occupation seems to get lost in the process. The book suffers from too much excessive detail without a clear annalysis.
The author often repeats information throughout the course of the book. I distinctly recall re-reading passages about Arnold, Andre and others several times during the story. The narrative jumps around a lot and is difficult to follow at times. The author should have organized his information better. As it stands now it seems what he did here was merely expand what was a Master's Thesis of some sort into a full length book. This is ok to do, but the end result should be more coherrent than what we have here. After plodding through 384 pages of rambling history I was left with one essential question: What did the Culper Ring accomplish for Washy and and the Rebel cause?
So much of the book spends time talking about the emotional condition of the main characters, their feelings and the back and forth efforts of communication that much of the actual accomplishment of this so-called first American espionage effort gets lost in the process. The interesting parts of the book are probably the on-going Petit Guerre that occurs on Long Island and parts about. There was a significant amount of this activity especially in the stalmate years of the war after the British consoldiated back into New York in 1778. Still, after a while even this runs a bit dry with constant raids back and forth over the Long Island Sound and nearby areas.
The author should have organized his story better, and given us a clearer idea of what these indivduals actually accomplished. I am a Rev War buff and I found much of this book redundant and tiring with too much local detail and not enough emphasis on how these efforts actually helped Washy's war effort. Those who like local New York history will enjoy it somewhat, but a lot of that info. has already been presented in other books about the city during the war. Those seeking how these early spies might have influenced the military aspects of the war will be disappointed. Perhaps a few souls interested in the development of espionage both in the US and Europe during the 18th century may find this work of some value. The author spends a whole chapter on how codes were made and broken in this period. Perhaps Da Vinci Code people may like that! It did little for me. An interesting topic, but a slow and tedious read.
Quick Read.......2007-04-06
Very quick read as the book flows quickly. Well researched with interesting biographies of the major players.
A great resource for Revolutionary War buffs!.......2007-04-05
I used this book in a graduate class at the University of Rochester and found it extremely interesting and helpful. The stories Rose uncovered of derring-do and the inventions of fairly sophisticated codes and spying techniques made me realize for the first time how true to life Cooper's novel "The Spy" really was. It's a well-written book that tells an often-untold story, but one that is very important for truly understanding the Revolution and the role ordinary men and women (even Quakers!) played in the American victory.
Customer Reviews:
what a waste of trees..........2007-03-21
Not without my daughter, is now known, was a fictional story to the still married Betty Mahmoody....as in still married to her "tyrannical" husband. He also recieved many of the proceeds that the book and movie made. This book is utterly distasteful, and a waste of time. I am tired of seeing Iran portrayed through such racial and prejudice views. The sad thing is that people will actually buy this book, and believe it. If I could rate this book with something other than one through five stars I would give it a NEGATIVE five stars. Don't waste ur time.
A wonderful read.......2000-04-21
I met Ms. Bell at a book signing and I found her to be genuine. She was willing to answer any and all questions about the book. I believe her story is the truth. Be prepared it is very honest.
Criticism is Transparent.......2000-03-29
I know many women who have similar stories to tell.
I foundthe story well told and an important warning to any woman consideringtraveling to the Middle East with her husband, especially when there are children involved.
You can believe I'd think twice.
More accurate than many would like to believe!.......2000-03-20
Being an American woman married to a Middle Eastern man, I was compelled to buy this book to see the accuracy of its content. Although many would like to turn a blind eye to the degrading and abusive nature of women in Middle Eastern society, especially American women inside this culture, it is a reality that must be reckoned. Sarah Harris and Barbara Mosallai Bell should be applauded for their efforts in relaying the events of Ms. Bell's life while in Iran. I think this serves as a powerful message to those who might consider leaving their country, their citizenship, all in the name of love. Not only is this book a fascinating, heart-wrenching story that many readers can empathize, but it can serve as reference to many women so they, too, do not make the same mistakes. I'd highly recommend this book!
Pure, Utter Trash.......1999-07-14
I can't even bring myself to write anything about this racist, inaccurate book. Don't waste your money.
Book Description
Millions of American families have turned to The Book of Virtues and The Moral Compass by William J. Bennett for moral guidance in troubled times. Our Sacred Honor offers inspiration and instruction as well...this time of a particularly American sort.
The lessons it contains are especially welcome. We live in a time when the practice of representative government in the United States of America is under siege from both the left and the right. Scandals abound. We are first shocked, then wearied, to learn that our national leaders have feet of clay. We live in a time, in short, which demands that we return to our origins to discover the common principles that make us essentially American. Our Sacred Honor reveals those common principles. They are articulated by the flawed but deeply admirable men and women who first wrote what it is to be American. The pledge made by the Founders to one another that hot July day in 1776—the pledge of "our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor"—has been redeemed many times in the centuries since, but the nation they founded has never failed to profit from their example.
It is time to profit from their advice.
In Our Sacred Honor, William J. Bennett has collected the best that has been thought and said by and about the men and women who founded America. And what a group they are: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John and Abigail Adams, and so many more that otherwise first-rate intellects such as John Dickinson, Benjamin Rush, and George Mason are relegated to the status of footnotes in the popular imagination. Not since Periclean Athens has such a small nation been led by so many larger-than-life figures. The only characteristic they shared more widely than revolutionary ardor was their talent (and inclination) for advice. Here is that advice on virtually every aspect of "the good"—good government, good relations between individuals and nations, and what it means to live a good life. Here are Thomas Jefferson on piety ("Adore God. Murmur not at the ways of Providence"); James Madison on justice ("It ever has been, and ever will be pursued, until it be obtained, or until liberty be lost in the pursuit"); and Patrick Henry on patriotism ("Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?"). Here are Abigail Adams on love ("When he is wounded, I bleed..."); Benjamin Franklin on industry ("Have you somewhat to do tomorrow, do it today"); and George Washington on friendship ("Be courteous with all, but intimate with few"). Here are the lyrics to "Yankee Doodle," Longfellow's celebration of the midnight ride of Paul Revere, and the Declaration of Independence. Here are the stories of the Liberty Bell, Washington at Valley Forge, and Nathan Hale. Here are selections from The Federalist Papers, and Ralph Waldo Emerson's "Concord Hymn," with "the shot heard round the world." Here are Poor Richard's Almanack, the extraordinary correspondence between John and Abigail Adams, and George Washington's Farewell Address.
The stories, songs, letters, and speeches collected in Our Sacred Honor are an inspiring celebration of American exceptionalism, produced by a collection of exceptional Americans. It is the best book of advice in more than two hundred years.
Customer Reviews:
Our Sacred Honor..........2007-10-06
As always, Bennett tosses us a great story about our founding fathers. His writing is coordinated and he points out the best of the dramatic tales (real) that they endured--as individuals, as well as family heads. If only, when future historians look back on our current days, they would be able to say..."Those were great days." Alas, I doubt it. Although the founders were what might be called "normal mortals", to challenge each other to create our great nation makes one proud to be able to say "we belong!" They were clearly heroes.
One Inspirational Read.......2007-05-14
I was tasked to find an appropriate book to give to outstanding high schoolers for our local Rotary Club. I felt this book well represented the ideal of the club. This book should serve as a valuable resource in future years as these young men and women matriculate to higher learning, and careers.
Bennett chose material well.......2007-03-26
Bennett chose his material well. Historians may argue with some of the details in his commentary (e.g., that Burr shot to kill Hamilton, aiming directly at his chest). Others may take issue with some of the "nuclear family" biases inherent in his commentary. That isn't the meat of the book. The importance of the book rests in the quotes of the founding generation, and Bennett went beyond some of the most famous quotes and speeches, although these are represented as well, to give us a true feeling of a generation that approached life with a genuine goal of self-improvement. Most interesting were some passages from Abigail Adams, from her "tough love" to John Quincy through her disdain for french dancers. Anything regarding Bennett's personal life is irrelevant for assessing the value of this work.
The greatest generation speaks .......2006-07-09
The United States of America was blessed with a generation of founding fathers who were at the same time people of action, and people of thought. They were an incredibly brilliant group of political and moral thinkers. Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Franklin, Hamilton, Madison had a profound understanding of both human nature and the unique circumstances bound up with the founding of the United States. Their dream was of creating a nation like no other before, one based on principles of freedom, and dignity of the individual The ideal formulation is of course in one of the documents central to this collection, ' The Declaration of Independence' , life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
In this anthology of the founding fathers' writings in story, letter song, speech and hymn we feel the spirit of a new and great nation and vision for mankind.
God Bless America.
Quite Enjoyable.......2005-12-31
Bill Bennett has collected some of the greatest pieces of rhetoric and stories of our founding fathers. This work includes everything from patriotism, the meaning of freedom, and romance to ethics and advice. It's a wonderful collection, one that will connect the listener to the intellect of the greatest Americans, at least the greatest of the early Americans. Bennett doesn't read any of his selected pieces, only some of the introductory material. However, the people who do read the work do a magnificent job. It's an abridgement of the source work and runs about 4 hours. It's a perfect collection for long drives.
Book Description
1793, Philadelphia. The nation's capital and the largest city in North America is devastated by an apparently incurable disease, cause unknown . . . In a powerful, dramatic narrative, critically acclaimed author Jim Murphy describes the illness known as yellow fever and the toll it took on the city's residents, relating the epidemic to the major social and political events of the day and to 18th-century medical beliefs and practices. Drawing on first-hand accounts, Murphy spotlights the heroic role of Philadelphia's free blacks in combating the disease, and the Constitutional crisis that President Washington faced when he was forced to leave the cityand all his paperswhile escaping the deadly contagion. The search for the fever's causes and cure, not found for more than a century afterward, provides a suspenseful counterpoint to this riveting true story of a city under siege. Thoroughly researched, generously illustrated with fascinating archival prints, and unflinching in its discussion of medical details, this book offers a glimpse into the conditions of American cities at the time of our nation's birth while drawing timely parallels to modern-day epidemics. Bibliography, map, index.
Customer Reviews:
A non-fiction book that reads like good fiction.......2007-06-21
This is the story of the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1793 that decimated Philadelphia. Most folks don't know much about this plague; I didn't til I had to research it for a class I'm taking (for a class I would teach).
This book, written for young adults, is captivating. The illustrations are relevant and extremely interesting; the text flows and is full of foreshadowing and detail that are the hallmarks of good writing. It's short enough to finish in a timely manner, and has all sorts of "excerpt" quality passages that one could read to students.
Although it would be best placed as a resource book in a classroom, I found it entirely readable as a book on its own. Though I got it for a class, it will stay on my shelf as a favorite. That's a rare accomplishment for non-fiction, in my world!
(*)>
An American Plague - One Review.......2007-03-17
I found this book to be very informative. Although aimed at grades 6-10, it would be a great read for any age. There is much about epidemics and medical practices that is not included in the typical history of our country, but they are important to the complete historical picture. Mr. Murphy has done a great job in relating a story in such a compact way. The only fault I find is that he did not include who history gives the most credit to in eradicating yellow fever and malaria - William Crawford Gorgas. Overall, this book would be a great addition to a classroom.
This book is great!.......2006-10-09
I loved this book. It is very descriptive and made me feel as though I was there. I don't think that four year olds can understand it though.
This book is alright .......2005-11-29
From what I've read of the book, An American Plague by Jim Murphy I think this book is okay. I thought that all the pictures in the story were unnecessary. But I liked the information it gave, in most stories the author won't show every theory from scientists. If you are really interested in the yellow fever it is recommended that you buy this book.
Riveting and Terrifying History.......2005-07-01
This dramatic account of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793 is riveting. It is packed with historical facts and presents the horror of the disease, the implications for the city of Philadelphia and neighboring areas, and the reaction of both the townspeople as well as those in power with vivid detail.
Politicians, the medical community, common people, orphans, the poor are all brought to life before our eyes and we feel their pain, we share their misery, and we gain insight into what life was like for them during this terrifying time.
Author Jim Murphy chronologically follows the beginning of this epidemic, making us feel as if we were actual witnesses to this American Plague, using quotes from those who were there, newspaper clippings, period engravings and portraits.
Additionally, we are shown true acts of courage and selfless behavior as Mr. Murphy tells us of great men and woman who risked their lives to help their fellow people, and some who ultimately sacrificed their lives. He also unravels the controversies, particularly among the medical community in regards to the reaction to the disease and discusses bloodletting, ingesting poisons, bathing in vinegar, purging air with gunpowder, inhaling black pepper as well as other practiced modes of treatment.
Some people may find the descriptions of the disease and the progression of the illness horrifying, but it is truth nonetheless, Yellow fever is nothing short of horrific. I believe this fascinating book is truly deserving of the many awards it has earned. This very visual and brilliantly written book is a great tool for you to use in teaching this part of our nation's history to your children.
Book Description
The first and only successful slave revolution in the Americas began in 1791 when thousands of brutally exploited slaves rose up against their masters on Saint-Domingue, the most profitable colony in the eighteenth-century Atlantic world. Within a few years, the slave insurgents forced the French administrators of the colony to emancipate them, a decision ratified by revolutionary Paris in 1794. This victory was a stunning challenge to the order of master/slave relations throughout the Americas, including the southern United States, reinforcing the most fervent hopes of slaves and the worst fears of masters.
But, peace eluded Saint-Domingue as British and Spanish forces attacked the colony. A charismatic ex-slave named Toussaint Louverture came to France's aid, raising armies of others like himself and defeating the invaders. Ultimately Napoleon, fearing the enormous political power of Toussaint, sent a massive mission to crush him and subjugate the ex-slaves. After many battles, a decisive victory over the French secured the birth of Haiti and the permanent abolition of slavery from the land. The independence of Haiti reshaped the Atlantic world by leading to the French sale of Louisiana to the United States and the expansion of the Cuban sugar economy.
Laurent Dubois weaves the stories of slaves, free people of African descent, wealthy whites, and French administrators into an unforgettable tale of insurrection, war, heroism, and victory. He establishes the Haitian Revolution as a foundational moment in the history of democracy and human rights.
Customer Reviews:
Good Read if you hate people like Karl Baxter.......2006-09-13
The Amerikkkan government has repeatedly blocked loans to Haiti from the IMF, that would raise Haitians quality of life by providing clean water, roads and medical supplies. Why would such a super hyper-power as the U.S. stoop so low as to block much needed aid to it's tiny island neighbor, after the International Monetary Fund was ready to release the loans?
Apparently their "is somebody to blame for their grinding poverty" besides "bad karma".
The Haitians represent the unconquered slave, the valiant Africans who's military genius and tactics are studied even today. Those Haitians who sent Napoleons 60,000 plus army back across the sea, allowing a ungrateful America to acquire the Louisiana Territory.
It is clear to me now, as it was to Dessalines then, that more "whites chopped up by angry blacks" should have taken place, (rather than a loyalty to a country they never saw, France) as it is really all that ignorant Europeans and their European-American cousins understand.
They lack the requisite moral courage and intelligence to right any wrongs as it pertains to Africans through out the diaspora.
Mr. Baxter would undoubtedly have become the victim of a sugar cane machete, at the very least for suggesting that " slavery was better than the conditions back home", which would seem funny were it not so sad of a commentary.
Great: Detailed, but goes down easy.......2006-03-19
This book was a true pleasure to read. DuBois is the kind of historian who deserves to be teaching high school students (I mean this as a compliment) because while makes sure to include all relevant details about the Haitain revolution, he makes this book read like a fascinating story. This is a wonderful and well developed book, suitable for both laymen and scholars.
I am pleased that DuBois kept his editorializing to a minimum and described the events of the Haitian revolution in a very much nuanced manner. I recommend this this book to anyone looking for a detailed, but surprisingly easy to read discussion of that famous "first successful slave rebellion."
Excellent, Engaging Story That Needs To Be Heard.......2006-01-09
The story of the sucessful slave rebellion, complete with perhaps a dozen illustrations. This work is very engaging, and the subject is rarely studied by today's students. I have recommended this book to many people, it is really great.
The Right Book for Such an Important Historical Event.......2005-05-17
It was about time that a book like this would appear. In this book Dubois masterfully walked a fine line between several traditional approaches to the Haitian Revolution. While avoiding the extremes of old racists' historians that have blamed slaves for bringing chaos to the island of Hispaniola, he also avoids the hero-making excess of CLR James. Dubois also appropriated lots from Carolyn E. Fick's valuable approach of the revolution from below while still on the sobering side of David P. Geggus.
With the exception of James', there is no work on the Haitian Revolution that is more readable and engaging than this book. Dubois' prose is crisp and vivid-the perfect writing for such a colorful story. The book is not short. But each chapter is full with interesting stories that you can hardly notice you are reading a scholarly history book.
However, there are three issues you should be aware of while reading it. Probably due to the large amount of information and the inclusion of many little stories, the reader can easily lose track of the chronology. So, having besides you a chronology of the events can help you follow each one without problems. Also, because of the scholarly practice of the use of evidence, Dubois habit of story-telling, and his efforts to avoid being judgmental, at first impression the reader may feel that the author is siding with evil. But Dubois evaluation is subtle, and yet very powerful and accurate. And finally, a few typos, responsibilities of the publishing house and not of the author, should not affect the reader's enjoyment of a good and important reading.
A good new account.......2004-04-06
Although this book excuses and uses moral relativism to explain the violence of the rebellion it nevertheless succeeds in explaining and documenting the slave revolt of 1871 against the French the subsequent victory, the first of its kind by slaves, against the Europeans. Decidedly American in nature, although the author argues it was inspired by the French revolution, the Haitian revolt against both Spain and against England and Spain helped create the second independent republic in the Americas. Toussaint, the leader, became a folk hero and the consequences reverberated all across the Americas, as images of slaves putting their masters to death were scene in the daily papers. Of course the most important political implications is that the Haitian rebellion ended Napoleonic hopes for an expanding empire in the Americas.
This is an important analysis and account of the Haitian rebellion, interesting in light of the recent problems in Haiti, which has unfortunately become the poorest country in the Americas, in direct opposition to its American neighbor who gained independence a mere dozen years prior.
Seth J. Frantzman
Book Description
When he was a student in Paris, Truong Nhu Tang met Ho Chi Minh. Later he fought in the Vietnamese jungle and emerged as one of the major figures in the "fight for liberation" -- and one of the most determined adversaries of the United States. He became the Vietcong's Minister of Justice, but at the end of the war he fled the country in disillusionment and despair. He now lives in exile in Paris, the highest level official to have defected from Vietnam to the West. This is his candid, revealing and unforgettable autobiography.
Customer Reviews:
A Rich Kid Goes To War.......2007-08-09
Basically this is a personal account of a priviledged Saigon family member who joins the Viet Cong and then becomes very disillusioned with the 'final victory'. While I enjoyed reading parts of this book, most of it reads like a personal diary with many names and characters who few even know.
As a very educated man, the author did not seem to understand that politically aggressive countries like the Soviet Union, the US, China, and even North Viet Nam need to control. So when the South Viet Nam government fell after the US left, North Viet Nam and the Soviet Union swept right into power. How could anyone not see this coming who actually lived most of his life there and dealt with these governments almost daily?
The author also had lived a very comfortable life in Paris for years as a student and later as a Viet Cong official. Later he would also make official visits to Eastern Bloc countries and the Soviet Union getting a good view of their poverty and bread lines. I was amazed that after he saw the contrast between communist countries and capitalistic countries he could ever embrace a communist ideology for his own country. He doesn't really explain his polictical expectations for Viet Nam.
The book describes the Viet Nam struggle from a personal view but never really measures the sacrifice of millions from many countries. The book talks about the 'glorious' meetings in the jungle and the words of 'Uncle Ho' in their hearts but it never discusses the 22,000 buried alive in the Cu Chi Tunnels, or the hundreds of thousands killed during B-52 attacks along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, or the millions dead in the Killing Fields of Cambodia, etc, etc. The irony of this war is that In the end, market forces are driving Viet Nam to a market-based economy where the communist government becomes more irrelevant every day. Capitalism was the enemy for so long and now it is consuming their country. Maybe the author should update his book because now the future is starting to look very bright for Viet Nam!
A Vietcong Memoir: An Inside Account of the Vietnam War & Its aftermath.......2007-02-15
As a Vietnam veteran who survived the Tet Offensive, I was deeply moved to read about the war from the "other" side. Mr. Truong Nhu Tang describes in depth how dedicated the Vietcong leaders were. They were "nationalists" who were intent on saving their country from politicians whom they perceived to be corrupt elitists. After reading his description of life in the jungle it is a wonder any of them survived the hardships of such an existence. The evolution of the Ho Chi Minh Trail was fascinating. I was amazed at The dedication of the workers who were responsible for keeping the trail open...bomb craters from night bombing runs were either filled or detoured around.
Poignant personal account of optimism, revolution, and political disillusionment.......2006-11-25
This is more than an inside story of the Vietcong, it is a personal account of one young man's journey through political optimism to revolutionary zeal to political disillusionment. It is a moving personal tale of the cost paid by so many for what their strongly-held convictions and then the realization that what they fought to win was worse than what they defeated. It is the personal side of revolution and the demise of so many revolutionaries once the struggle is over. A very moving account of the power of an idea and its demands on the lives of those it touches.
HEAVY ON POLITICS, NOT ON GUERILLA WARFARE.......2005-05-24
I gladly award this book a 4-star rating. The author expresses himself well, and certainly has a lot to say about Vietnam's military struggle. He details Vietnam's fight against (1) the French; (2) the U.S.; and (3) North Vietnam and their Soviet supporters.
What's missing is a more gritty description of guerilla warfare. As I was reading this I wrote in the column "So who invented the perkinje pit?", and "How effective were the coca-cola cans you guys turned into bombs?" and "How did you convince housewives to become snipers and kill people?" There is nothing like that here. According to the author the Viet Cong were one big, happy family that had fun together when they weren't being tragically bombed by American B-52s.
Tang's description of Vietnamese politics is even a bit sketchy. He talks quite a bit about Ho Chi Minh's beliefs in "independence," and what a humble, sweet guy "Uncle Ho" was. He never says what Ho's beliefs about guerilla warfare were. Really, how did this "Sweet guy" resolve to have his people put on black pajamas and become killers?
With his high and mighty position in the Viet Cong administration, Tang would have known where the V.C.'s supplies were coming from. He mentions the Ho Chi Minh trail, but nothing about who gave all those poor vietnamese the gear they used. He says that in 1975 the South Vietnamese army (enemies of the Viet Cong) were going to be "outgunned." I remember writing in the column "WHERE'D YOU GET THE GUNS, TANG?"
Basically, this is a very good book. It is NOT a definitive account of guerilla warfare, however.
A Biography, with little analysis/explanation of the NLF.......2003-11-12
I chose to read this book because of my interest in the Vietnam War. I like a balanced approach, and wanted to see what the opposition had to say, other than the official Communist party line.
While the author is impressive, and lead an interesting life, I ws dissapointed by the book. Its mostly his biography, with little analysis.
What I was looking for was a book by someone from the COmmunist side on the forming, organisation, and running of the NLF. What were their concerns, difficulties etc. A few pages address this, but the vast majority are about the author and some of his friends.
As a biography its fine, but as a book on the NLF theer isnt enough there. It could have been cut by 2/3.
I can't recommend it for students of the Vietnam War.
Book Description
Ben Franklin was an amasing American because he was:
* a printer and businessman who created Poor Richard's Almanac
* the inventor of the lightining rod and the Franklin stove
* a community leader who started the first public library in America
* a statesman who helped to gain our country's freedom from British
These are only a few ways in which Ben was amazing. This book tells you much more about him.
Customer Reviews:
Benjamin Franklin Amazing American.......2000-05-11
This is a book of high interest to my 5th and 6th grade students. Benjamin Franklin came alive on the pages of this book, and even inspired one young man to do further research into the life of this truly amazing American. The language is simple and straight forward making comprehenshion possible even for my students who are struggling with a very limited knowledge of the English language. I believe that this book is not only appropriate for children, but also an enjoyable reading experience for adults that are reading along with their children, or adults who are building their own reading skills. It never "talks down" to the reader. The world is hungry for heroes, and leaders who live and teach old-fashioned virtues. This book meets this need in an entertaining way.
The Story of Benjamin Franklin Amazing American.......2000-04-25
This book has been very informative for both my 6th grade and my college-aged ESL students. It brings to life one of the most inventive and creative personalities in American history. He is presented in a very positive way, making him a role model that can be an example to younger and older people alike. This book is written in language that is easily understood by young or foreign readers. While it uses vocabulary that stretches the limits of a young person's ability, it also gives explantion for difficult passages. It gives thoughtful insight into American history preceding the Revolutionary War and the reasons for the War.
Book Description
It began in Boston, with angry colonists objecting to the tyranny of a king who ruled from an ocean away.
It was voiced by patriots such as Sam Adams and Patrick Henry and echoed by citizens from New England all the way to the Carolinas.
It was fought by many -- colonists and patriots, Loyalists and slaves, Frontiersmen and Indians, British and French soldiers.
Over more than ten years, sides were taken, guns drawn, lives lost. But through it all, one man -- a general from Virginia named George Washington -- held the young colonies together and led them to victory, beating almost impossible odds.
History lovers Betsy and Giulio Maestro tell this true story of extraordinary times, incredible drama, and the birth of a new nation.
Book Description
The fifty-six signers of the Declaration of Independence, the foundation of America's freedom, created a nation and launched a freedom movement the world had never seen. Today it seems inevitable that the thirteen colonies would declare their independence from Britain. And yet in 1776 it was not so. Here is the extraordinary story of drama and daring, sacrifice and selflessness, danger and potential death. The signers concluded their work with a plea for Providential protection and a selfless vow to sacrifice "our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor." Many of them did just that to create a country in which "all men are created equal, . . . endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these, are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."
Award-winning historian Rod Gragg brings to life the drama of 1776 like no other book. The removable artifacts, including a full-size (24-1/4" x 29-1/2") replica of the Declaration of Independence, bring to life the events of 1776 like no other presentation.
Customer Reviews:
A Must Read For All Americans and Immigrants.......2006-11-15
Museum in a book indeed! And it's not just for the youth either. The fact is our history is lost to most Americans, especially when it comes to the Colonial/Revolutionary War era of our nation. This book - The Declaration of Independence: The Story Behind America's Founding Document and the Men Who Created It - can change that. In my opinion, it should be in every American school, in every American library, and in every American home. It should be required reading for every public school child and immigrant. Of course, that would never happen - the ACLU wouldn't allow such a dastardly thing - imagine forcing school children and American-wannabe's to learn about what made this country great - and it IS great. The greatest, in fact, even with its faults.
What our fore-fathers did was something that one would never see today - people willing to give one's life, to possibly suffer in a torcherous prison - by signing a document to ensure a free and independent country where one would not have to be controlled by a tyrant. Where a peanut farmer, an actor, or a backwoods lawyer could become the President. And this book gives not only wonderful written descriptions on how that all came about, but allows the reader to experience, through replicas of original documents that one can actually hold and read as if grasping the original (including a draft of the Declaration) writings that made the formation of our great United States.
By the way, there is no political correctness in this book - just pure factual American history - so if your are looking for the anti-European revisionist history books mandated by the liberal left, this one isn't for you.
Inspiring and Enlightening.......2006-11-01
Rod Gragg has done an excellent job of accurately portraying the events leading to the declaration of independence. Furthermore, he did an excellent job of remaining true to the actual historical events, rather than approaching the subject with a political agenda. I highly recommend this book to any person desiring a deeper understanding of America's founding fathers and the events that led to our independence. I can not wait to read more of Mr. Gragg's books.
Absolutly Astounding for Young Learners.......2006-06-27
This book I just purchased a week ago and it has served me well. I am a graduate of 8th grade and I know that this book would be useful in so many branches of school work such as oral presentations and visual aids. This book describes in a lot more detail than I could ever have emagined. I'd recommend this book to history teachers any time and for 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th graders learning about this subject. GREAT BOOK!!!
A historical thrill.......2005-12-05
This is an absolutely wonderful book. It makes the summer of 1776 come alive in ways few books can achieve. The attached replicas of key documents (including a full-size copy of the Declaration) are sure to draw readers, teachers, students, librarians...and anyone with even the remotest curiosity about what is arguably the most important document from our country's founding. This one is a treasure!
Books:
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- Invading Mexico: America's Continental Dream and the Mexican War, 1846-1848
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- Jayne's Intelligence Review - The Royal Manticoran Navy (Honor Harrington)
- JFK: The CIA, Vietnam and the Plot to Assassinate John F. Kennedy
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- Leadership and the New Science: Discovering Order in a Chaotic World
- Lone Star Lawmen: The Second Century of the Texas Rangers
- Los Cuatro Acuerdos: Una Guia Practica para la Libertad Personal
- My Name Is America: journal Of Rufus Rowe, Witness To The Battle Of Fredricksburg (My Nam Is America)
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