Reviews

Ghost Soldiers: The Epic Account of World War II's Greatest Rescue Mission by Hampton Sides

m1120's review against another edition

4.0

This book was the first time I've been exposed to a POW war novel. I really liked the back and forth between the raid and the lives of the POWs; it gave very good context into who the prisoners actually were and what they went through. OVerall, this is a very enjoyable, well-written book, and I would definitely recommend that everyone gives this a read, especially if you enjoy real stories from World War II.

fairysparklebutton's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional informative inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced

3.0

metlos's review against another edition

challenging dark emotional hopeful informative inspiring medium-paced

4.75

sjk1984's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted reflective sad tense medium-paced

5.0

Title: Ghost Soldiers by Hampton Sides - A Riveting Chronicle of Valor and Sacrifice

"Ghost Soldiers" by Hampton Sides presents an awe-inspiring narrative of courage and sacrifice, told with a remarkable openness by the individuals directly involved. The book stands as a tribute to those soldiers who, in times of war, endured the unimaginable for the sake of the United States.

Sides skillfully guides readers through the harrowing experiences of these men, offering a compelling blend of hellish nightmares and unadulterated glory. The author's ability to seamlessly weave between the rescue mission and the unsuspecting POW encampment provides readers with a comprehensive view of the events, creating a powerful and immersive reading experience.

The gratitude expressed by the author towards those who have served resonates throughout the narrative. The act of reading about war becomes a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. Sides succeeds in capturing the essence of the soldiers' experiences, leaving readers with a profound appreciation for the extraordinary men and women who shaped history.

"Ghost Soldiers" serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who faced unimaginable challenges. Through Sides' expert storytelling, the book becomes not just a historical account but a deeply moving acknowledgment of the bravery and existence of these remarkable individuals. In a world shaped by their sacrifices, readers are left with a sense of gratitude for the unsung heroes who have shaped the course of our collective history.

justbobbi's review against another edition

adventurous emotional hopeful informative inspiring tense fast-paced

4.75

areidbarnes's review against another edition

4.0

I don't normally read a lot of non-fiction but I was drawn to this book when I picked it up ages ago because of its promising story. Even tho I read a lot of WWII fiction I rarely read about the Japanese/American fight and even LESS about the occupation of the Philippines.

This retelling of the story was incredibly well written and captivating. It was a slow start (maybe due to my inexperience with non-fiction war writing) but I was so invested in the people and the story that I just had to keep reading. Excellent read.

kimball_hansen's review against another edition

3.0

Dang this book was sad. Not as graphic as the [b:The Rape of Nanking|95784|The Rape of Nanking|Iris Chang|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1348687411l/95784._SY75_.jpg|31912] but nevertheless.

Good book but the narrative could have been better.

shelbyschock's review against another edition

emotional informative inspiring medium-paced

5.0

Incredible true story with great perspectives from the POWs to the rangers who rescued them. 

glenden4411's review against another edition

3.0

I enjoyed this book very much. I did not know the story, and this was well written and gave interesting history and details of WWII in the Philippines and the prisoner camps and their rescue.

rheren's review against another edition

5.0

Great book. Well-paced, lots of good background information and a good feel for what it was like, both in the prison camp, and among the Rangers who broke them out of the camp. I also particularly liked the insights into Japanese psyche, and why things were done the way they were. It goes beyond the old stereotype of WW2-era Japanese as kind of fanatical barbarians, and explains a mindset that made perfect sense if you were raised in it, but seemed horrifying to us Americans, because it was so different. I feel like I understand the whole situation from both sides better for having read this book.