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In this emotional and evocative memoir, Richards blends his own harrowing story with his father's collected memories of serving in Vietnam. The author also endures a harrowing tragedy involving his closest friend, which coincides with his father's decline. Meanwhile, he learns to live with a life-changing injury, one that leaves him in constant pain and with unpredictable immobility. Richards also examines America's controversial involvement in the Vietnam War, and the book highlights the dire circumstances many Vietnam veterans faced during and years after their return from Vietnam. From the CDC's decision to stop research on Agent Orange's effects to the closing of the Settlement Fund, this book reveals a side of the Vietnam War many have never seen or known existed. Simultaneously, the author's painful journey through brokenness and healing gives the book's audience a gentle reminder: beauty still exists where it cannot always be seen.
This book is a powerful testimony about love and perseverance. Throughout the narractive, Richards' relationship with his father deepens, and so does his understanding of his father's personality and silences. Other stories within the book remind its audience about the significance of determination. This example is best set by the author's friend, Steven, who works tirelessly to overcome his own nearly debilitating injuries in order to throw the first pitch at a Red Sox game. This section offers a key, memorable mantra: "Simply put, follow through is the physical manifestation of intention." Inspiring and necessary, this memoir will give all who receive it a new look at life, love, and hope. It is definitely a must-read, one that will guide individuals through the darkest of times.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review of Books