Official Review: Expendable and Necessary by Ralph Harris

[CommMayo]

I had a coworker, a huge towering man, who would get tears in his eyes every time he would talk about serving in Vietnam. I agree with the comments of others that reading about war as a memoir does so much more to enlighten a person than simply reading a history book.

[NL Hartje]

I had a coworker, a huge towering man, who would get tears in his eyes every time he would talk about serving in Vietnam. I agree with the comments of others that reading about war as a memoir does so much more to enlighten a person than simply reading a history book.

Wow, I don't personally know any Vietnam vets. After reading two Vietnam memoirs recently, I would love to meet one and ask them questions but I know how insensitive that would be. I've just become curious to learn more I suppose.

[qsusan]

This seems to be a highly engaging read. I particularly like its healing potential because I am aware of just how damaging war can be. I also like the perspective it provides to civilians of the sacrifices inherent in every battle.

[Libs_Books]

These events showed readers how heart and hope could stay alive in the direst of situations.

Love that line - and that sentiment.

From being constantly sent to point for the most traumatic missions to being denied promotions for voicing his concerns, Harris got the distinct feeling that he and his “soul brothers” were nothing more than expendables being used as a means to an end.

His open-minded commentary on the race war within the political conflict, however, was refreshing and revealing. ... Through his experiences, Lance Corporal Ralph Harris came away with a newfound appreciation for life, laughter, tears, and pain. I hope that all who read this book come away with the same. I certainly did.

I can't really think of a high recommendation. You make the book sound absolutely fascinating and a very worthwhile read.

[NL Hartje]

These events showed readers how heart and hope could stay alive in the direst of situations.

Love that line - and that sentiment.

From being constantly sent to point for the most traumatic missions to being denied promotions for voicing his concerns, Harris got the distinct feeling that he and his “soul brothers” were nothing more than expendables being used as a means to an end.

His open-minded commentary on the race war within the political conflict, however, was refreshing and revealing. ... Through his experiences, Lance Corporal Ralph Harris came away with a newfound appreciation for life, laughter, tears, and pain. I hope that all who read this book come away with the same. I certainly did.

I can't really think of a high recommendation. You make the book sound absolutely fascinating and a very worthwhile read.

Thank you so much for your kind comments! I really learned mountains about the war in this read, plus it was actually entertaining!

[NL Hartje]

This seems to be a highly engaging read. I particularly like its healing potential because I am aware of just how damaging war can be. I also like the perspective it provides to civilians of the sacrifices inherent in every battle.

There is definitely potential for both civilians and veterans to find enjoyment and peace in this book. I truly hope the author can find an audience, his book is worth reading.

[Spirit Wandering]

Given our current political climate, this sounds like an important reminder of where race relations were in the past and how far we have (and have not) come in the last 50 years. Thanks for the great review.

[revna01]

I do enjoy your writing! This is not a book I would shy away from, although for me, the timing has to be just right. Thank you for a thorough and beautifully-written review!

[Sahani Nimandra]

I really like the way how the author expresses the idea of been cheerful in ugly situation and some are pretty humorous as you said about a rat climbing on top of a official who was a sleep. Great review!

[Yoli García]

Sounds like an eye-opening book about the Vietnam War, military operations, and racism during that time. Thanks for the review!

[Lu_rire]

It is an unadvoidable truth that war changes people and often breaks them. Books lkke this open our eyes to the ugly realities of war.

[Clinical1]

The Vietnam War was a civil war in their county, but very much was a non-military civil war here in the US. Our veterans were treated horribly. Black veterans were treated even worse. And here we are, 2018, and we are still segregating. Shameful.

[Rhedreading]

I found your review inviting and descriptive. I live in Vietnam as an expat and I'm intrigued by the accounts of veterans returned after the war because their memories and stories are not easily translated for an audience outside of war. It's humbling to come across a voice, raw and relatable, that can deliver a message through the thickness of taboo and tragedy. It sounds like Harris is one of those voices. Thanks for sharing your great review.

[NL Hartje]

I found your review inviting and descriptive. I live in Vietnam as an expat and I'm intrigued by the accounts of veterans returned after the war because their memories and stories are not easily translated for an audience outside of war. It's humbling to come across a voice, raw and relatable, that can deliver a message through the thickness of taboo and tragedy. It sounds like Harris is one of those voices. Thanks for sharing your great review.

Thank YOU for reading. It was truly a moving book.