3.9 AVERAGE


In 3rd grade we had to read a book and do a presentation on it. I did this book. Forever being a weirdo overachiever.

It is the height of the Cold War. A recent intelligence development has led the United States government to believe that the captain of a Soviet missile submarine intends to defect to America. This is the predicament facing Jack Ryan, an intelligence analyst for the CIA, in Tom Clancy’s: The Hunt for Red October. The book is a great example of a classic rivalry: America and the Soviet Union. As well, a rivalry appears between Jack Ryan and Marko Ramius, captain of the Red October. However, embedded within this rivalry develops a partnership between two men, each holding a deep respect for the other, as they work towards a common goal. Set across continents and oceans, the book tells the story of two men, one bent on betraying his country, the other dedicated to serving his nation. Both men are incredibly believable, and each one has a distinct personality all his own. The story moves at a slow but constantly suspenseful pace.
Told on a day to day basis, each chapter is devoted to the events of one day. The story jumps from Washington, D.C. to Moscow to the submarines Red October and USS Dallas. As Ryan and the U.S. government struggle to figure out the October’s revolutionary new propulsion system, which allows her to cruise virtually undetected, the sub draws ever nearer to America. The situation becomes even more tense when the CIA discovers that most of the Soviet Navy is chasing the submarine like a swarm of angry bees. The Soviets appear hell bent on retrieving- or even sinking, if necessary- the October before she reaches the safety of U.S. soil. It is through events and details such as these that Clancy is able to create a situation which very well could have happened during those tense years.
The book also provides a window into the author’s vast knowledge of military science and espionage; a topic shared among his many other books. While slightly drawn out and at times slow, flaws in the writing are well masked and difficult to notice. Highly recommended for war enthusiasts, history buffs and anyone looking to enjoy a great techno-thriller.
adventurous challenging tense medium-paced

I remember watching this movie as a young teen and always thought I would one day get around to reading it. 30 years later, I’m finally diving into this mega series.

This was written in the late 80s when the technology scene was only getting started. Which requires sooo many more details into the scenes as these Sailers did everything manually and by gut instinct.

I would recommend listening to the audiobook, because Scott Brick is amazing and makes you feel like you are on that submarine.
adventurous tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
adventurous tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

too technical and dense

Omg this took me so looooong ;◇;
adventurous funny informative tense slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Rated as "trashy holiday read" and as my enjoyment in such a mindset. You have to ignore the war porn and obvious propoganda. A rating based purely on literary merit would be lower.