56 pages • 1 hour read
War
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Book Brief
287
Book • Nonfiction
Korengal Valley, Afghanistan • 2000s
2010
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
War by Sebastian Junger documents a year in the rugged highlands of Afghanistan, where Junger and videographer Tim Hetherington accompany the Second Platoon of Battle Company as they face arduous conditions and intense combat in the Korengal Valley. The platoon patrols to combat insurgent forces, with the deaths, injuries, and extreme resilience of the soldiers vividly portrayed.
Gritty
Suspenseful
Challenging
Emotional
Dark
Reviews & Readership
25,814 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Sebastian Junger's War, drawing on his time with a U.S. platoon in Afghanistan, has garnered praise for its raw and immersive reflection on combat experiences, psychological impacts, and camaraderie. Critics laud its vivid storytelling and deep human focus. However, some note it occasionally lacks broader geopolitical context. Overall, it's a compelling, gripping read.
Who Should Read War?
Readers who would enjoy War by Sebastian Junger are likely interested in modern warfare, personal soldier experiences, and psychological impacts of combat. Fans of Black Hawk Down by Mark Bowden and The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien will appreciate the camaraderie, intense realism, and human story aspects present in War.
25,814 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sergeant Brendan O’Byrne
Sergeant Brendan O’Byrne
A soldier in Second Platoon whose personal transformation and candid perspectives are frequently highlighted, reflecting common themes of camaraderie and post-combat struggles.
Juan Restrepo
Juan Restrepo
A beloved platoon medic remembered for his bravery and positive spirit, whose legacy is honored by his unit.
Sal Giunta
Sal Giunta
First Platoon team leader whose bravery during a Taliban ambush earned him the Medal of Honor, symbolizing the selfless actions common among his peers.
Jones
Jones
The sole Black soldier in Second Platoon, known for his tactical skill, distinctive sense of humor, and candid insights into military life.
Dan Kearney
Dan Kearney
Captain of Battle Company, recognized for his leadership efforts to engage with local populations amidst challenging conditions.
William Ostlund
William Ostlund
Battalion commander whose zealous efforts to collaborate with Afghan villagers illustrate broader applications of US military strategy.
Larry Rougle
Larry Rougle
A revered Scout squad leader known for his agility and stealth in enemy observation, whose leadership is valued by his unit.
Tim Hetherington
Tim Hetherington
Cinematographer and frequent collaborator with Junger, contributing to the visual documentation of soldiers' experiences without impacting the storyline.
287
Book • Nonfiction
Korengal Valley, Afghanistan • 2000s
2010
Adult
18+ years
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