Boot: A Sorta Novel of Vietnam by Charles L Templeton

Boot: A Sorta Novel of Vietnam by Charles L. Templeton is a riveting read about the Viet Nam war that is slightly reminiscent of Catch-22 by Joseph Heller. This book follows the stream of consciousness of its main character, G.O., or George Orwell Hill. We follow his life from the beginning of his military journey through his time in Viet Nam, and returning home, as he makes us laugh, ponder, and become entrenched in the absolute absurdity of war. The relationships between the soldiers are well described, intense, and at times serious. Rescue missions provide some solemnity, but overall the tone is rather light considering the subject, because if you can't see the irony of war, why participate in it at all? A great read, one that will illuminate your understanding of this important moment in history and its lingering effects.