A review by julesmq
The Women by Kristin Hannah

challenging dark emotional informative reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I was born during the Vietnam war, so I have always been familiar with the era of this book. Because I was a teenager in the 1980s, I have also always assumed that the women of Vietnam were known. I watched the TV series “China Beach” about those very women! So this story of forgotten service was a revelation to me. It’s sad, it’s awful, it’s angering. But it’s not surprising since Vietnam veterans have never been honored and female veterans even less. 

This book is difficult to read but in another author’s hands might not have had the resonance that Kristin Hannah brought to this story. I especially appreciate that she didn’t wrap up anything tidily and didn’t shy away from harsh realities. 

If you’re the least bit curious about the Vietnam era, or even if you’re just a history buff, this book should be on your reading list.
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