Here in Chicago, a local school recently tried to ban this book, among others. I don't understand the purpose of banning this book, or any book for that matter. (OK, if you want to ban Debbie Does Dallas - The Novel, I can understand.) The Things They Carried, along with O'Brien's other books, Going After Cacciato and If I Die in a Combat Zone are superb reads. Most think they are just books about the Vietnam War, but they aren't. With eloquency and surrealism, O'Brien takes us on a journey through the insanity of war and how the mind copes. I would suggest If I Die in a Combat Zone first, as it is a memoir and a prelude the the other two. Violent and graphic? Yes. But O'Brien goes beyond just the surface violence, he delves into the psyche of the soldier, how they dealt with their environment, how they supported each other and the brain's dire need to make sense of it all. The Things They Carried should be mandatory reading for all high schools. O'Brien's tallent for writing should not be missed, his words will move you.Read full review
Received it today, although it isn’t in perfect condition; the pages and words are in good condition on paper! It came early which makes me happy. Very good price.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Was hoping it'll be more factual about the war but this book deals with human emotions. It was recommended as one of the top Vietnam war books but not what I'm looking for unfortunately. Seller is great; book is bleak.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I ordered The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien and got a completely different book. It looks nothing like the photo of the item I ordered, so I don’t understand how this could’ve happened, even accidentally. I’m peeved.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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