47 pages • 1 hour read
The Yellow Birds
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Book Brief
256
Novel • Fiction
Iraq, United States • 2000s
2012
Adult
18+ years
1010L
Super Short Summary
The Yellow Birds by Kevin Powers follows the retrospective narrative of John Bartle, recounting his experiences during and after the Iraq War, centered around the town of Al Tafar in 2004. Bartle reflects on events including the death of his friend Murph, his own return home and struggle with PTSD, ultimately leading to his imprisonment and eventual release, ending with his attempt to find peace. The book contains depictions of violence, death, and war-related trauma which may be sensitive for some readers.
Melancholic
Dark
Contemplative
Gritty
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
28,610 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kevin Powers' The Yellow Birds is lauded for its lyrical prose and harrowing depiction of war. Readers appreciate the emotional depth and realism, although some criticize it for a disjointed narrative and underdeveloped secondary characters. Despite minor flaws, it remains a powerful, evocative account of a soldier’s experience.
Who Should Read The Yellow Birds?
Readers who appreciate The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien or Redeployment by Phil Klay will find The Yellow Birds by Kevin Powers compelling. This novel appeals to those interested in the psychological impact of war, poetic prose, and deep character studies. Ideal for readers looking for a poignant, introspective read on modern warfare.
28,610 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Daniel Murphy (Murph)
Daniel Murphy (Murph)
A key soldier and friend to Bart, whose death profoundly affects Bart and drives much of his reflection on the war.
Sergeant Sterling
Sergeant Sterling
A complex and formidable figure in the platoon, whose leadership and harsh methods strongly influence Bart and Murph.
Mrs. LaDonna Murphy
Mrs. LaDonna Murphy
Murph’s mother, whose interactions with Bart highlight the emotional aftermath of her son's death.
The Lieutenant (LT)
The Lieutenant (LT)
A distant and reserved officer whose competent, though enigmatic, presence marks the platoon and influences the dynamic.
256
Novel • Fiction
Iraq, United States • 2000s
2012
Adult
18+ years
1010L
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