52 pages • 1 hour read
Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War
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Book Brief
400
Book • Nonfiction
Mogadishu, Somalia • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
970L
Super Short Summary
Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War by Mark Bowden is a non-fiction account detailing the Battle of Mogadishu, where US forces aimed to capture lieutenants of Somali warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid. The mission on October 3, 1993, led to intense urban combat when Somali militias ambushed the soldiers after two Black Hawk helicopters were shot down, resulting in a fight for survival over the next 14 hours. The book provides vivid, brief chapters from various perspectives, detailing the political and military intricacies of the conflict. Violence and intense battle scenes are depicted.
Gritty
Suspenseful
Dark
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
67,931 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Mark Bowden's Black Hawk Down is widely praised for its intense, meticulous account of the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu. Readers commend its gripping narrative and rich details, making complex military operations accessible. However, some critics feel the extensive focus on firefights overshadows broader political context. Overall, it's hailed as a compelling, if narrowly focused, war chronicle.
Who Should Read Black Hawk Down?
Readers who enjoy Black Hawk Down by Mark Bowden are typically captivated by detailed, true accounts of military conflict and heroism. Similar books include Band of Brothers by Stephen E. Ambrose and Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell. These readers appreciate precise, gripping narratives that highlight the intensity and chaos of battle.
67,931 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sergeant First Class Mike Howe
Sergeant First Class Mike Howe
Leader of the Delta unit known for his lethal fighting skills and disdain for non-Delta troops, highlighting inter-unit conflicts.
Captain Mike Steele
Captain Mike Steele
Respected and disciplined leader who values military regulations and grapples with the consequences of critical decisions during the mission.
Warrant Officer Mike Durant
Warrant Officer Mike Durant
Pilot of the second downed Black Hawk, demonstrating bravery and empathy as he navigates captivity and cultural understanding.
Major General William F. Garrison
Major General William F. Garrison
Commander of Task Force Ranger, a seasoned veteran facing political pressures and bearing responsibility for mission outcomes.
400
Book • Nonfiction
Mogadishu, Somalia • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
970L
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