Vietnam - Nonfiction
"Into the Green: A Reconnaissance by
Fire" by Cherokee Paul McDonald 
This book is published as a work of nonfiction, and as the cover jacket states "At times it's hard to believe this book isn't a work of fiction". I will accept that the book is based on actual incidents, but it does smack of some fiction. The author served his time as a forward artillery observer and spent a lot of time in the field and probably lived many of the incidents described in this book. If I am wrong, I apologize to Lt. McDonald.
This book walks the walk and talks the talk as only a veteran of Vietnam could write it. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, sometimes irreverent, but always on the mark, this book gives the reader an in-depth feel of what it was like to be there and what went on in the minds of the men who served in combat units. At times, this book will stir anger at the stupidity and waste that goes with war. A good memoir and worth reading by Vietnam era veterans.
Reviewed by Kenneth S. Smith 2/21/2002
Available from:
A PLUME Book
Penguin Putnam, Inc.
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
