84 pages • 2 hours read
Sunrise Over Fallujah
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Iraq • 2000s
2008
YA
14-18 years
780L
Super Short Summary
Sunrise Over Fallujah by Walter Dean Myers follows eighteen-year-old Robin "Birdy" Perry from Harlem as he enlists in the U.S. Army and is stationed in Iraq during the early stages of the Iraq War in 2003. The novel explores Birdy's motivations for joining, his experiences and challenges while serving, and his evolving perspective on war and his initial beliefs, particularly after enduring personal losses during combat situations. Sensitive topics in the book include wartime violence, death, and psychological trauma.
Gritty
Suspenseful
Emotional
Challenging
Dark
Reviews & Readership
5,457 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Sunrise Over Fallujah by Walter Dean Myers offers a gripping portrayal of modern warfare through the eyes of a young soldier. Critics commend its realistic depiction and complex characters. However, some find its pacing uneven and character development lacking depth at times. Overall, it's a compelling and thought-provoking read that illuminates the costs of war.
Who Should Read Sunrise Over Fallujah?
A reader who enjoys Sunrise Over Fallujah by Walter Dean Myers is likely drawn to contemporary war stories, political dynamics, and personal growth narratives. Fans of Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried or Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner would appreciate the gripping, emotional, and insightful portrayal of soldiers' experiences in Iraq.
5,457 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
CHARLIE "JONESY" JONES
CHARLIE "JONESY" JONES
A soldier with a love for the blues, known for speaking in riddles and providing both comic relief and wisdom. He befriends Birdy and has dreams of opening a blues club upon returning home.
MAJOR SPRING SESSIONS
MAJOR SPRING SESSIONS
A commander in the Civil Affairs unit known for her toughness, yet has moments that reveal her vulnerability and humanity. She is highly respected yet unexpectedly passed over for promotion, raising questions among her soldiers.
CAPTAIN COLES
CAPTAIN COLES
The officer responsible for Birdy’s squad, known for his kindness and dedication to his troops. Though he jokes about wanting to return home to his family, he is deeply committed to his duty.
MARLA KENNEDY
MARLA KENNEDY
A sarcastic and skilled soldier who initially clashes with Birdy but becomes a good friend. She is a former orphan from New York with a knack for finding hidden dangers and is an integral member of the First Squad.
320
Novel • Fiction
Iraq • 2000s
2008
YA
14-18 years
780L
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