Ghosts of War
Ghosts of War
Nonfiction | Biography | YA | Published in 2009
Book Brief
360
Biography • Nonfiction
Iraq • Early 2000s
2009
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Ghosts of War by Ryan Smithson chronicles his experience as a young Army Reservist, starting with his choice to enlist at seventeen, influenced by the events of September 11, 2001, through his subsequent deployment in Iraq as a construction engineer. He navigates the challenges and trials of military life, forming deep bonds with fellow soldiers and experiencing personal growth through both harrowing and uplifting moments. The book includes descriptions of combat situations and PTSD.
Challenging
Emotional
Inspirational
Contemplative
Dark
Reviews & Readership
1,692 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ryan Smithson's Ghosts of War receives commendation for its raw and honest portrayal of a soldier's experience in Iraq, offering vivid insights into the psychological and emotional impacts of war. However, some readers find the narrative pacing uneven and critique the lack of deeper contextual analysis. Overall, it’s a poignant, firsthand look at military life.
Who Should Read Ghosts of War?
Readers who appreciate Ghosts of War by Ryan Smithson are typically interested in personal accounts of military service and the psychological aftermath of war. Fans of Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell or The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien will find Smithson’s memoir compelling for its raw, firsthand perspective on a soldier’s experience.
1,692 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
360
Biography • Nonfiction
Iraq • Early 2000s
2009
YA
14-18 years
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