Review by Finnsnana, Professor Emerita of Psychology

Let me begin by saying that I am a pacifist, a feminist, and an introvert. I am not a fan of war, dick jokes, or the “boys will be boys” camaraderie I associate with fraternities and athletic teams. That said, I loved this book. Although I had read novels set in the world wars, I had never read novels (or watched films) relating to Viet Nam. I “knew” a lot (perhaps too much) about Viet Nam, having come of age in the ‘60s. Yet, I truly appreciate Templeton’s attention to detail and not pushing things too far. He manages to develop authentic characters I care about without creating superheroes or villains. He communicates the complexity of the cultural, geographic, ethnic, racial, and religious diversity that many “boys” encountered in the military. It’s clear that there is terror, horrific injury, and death along with on-going tensions between periods of great boredom and abject fear. Throughout, there is MASH-like humor and an easy narrative. To the extent that a good novel entertains and enlightens, Boot masterfully achieves both goals.