Rad Reads

Decided to reread this book a little since the movie came out recently.  I always like to reread books when their respective movies come out to give me a more recent idea of the book to make my unfair judgments and criticisms over.  While I have yet to see the movie, I read the book freshman year and wanted a refresher. Get it?  Freshman, refresher?  Anyway, this book is still an excellent perspective on the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. While many war novels and movies focus on the war side of things, few go in depth about the effects of war.  "American Sniper" shares the protagonist's, Chris Kyle, insight and experience with the wars affects on his family life, his relationship with his wife, and his addiction to serve.  He mentions the fact that anytime after his first deployment he felt useless in the U.S. and wanted to be back over seas serving his country.  While this devoted patriot is admirable, this had a alienating affect on him and his wife, and the choice was clear that he wanted to be in the fight rather than with her.  The segments that she wrote are particularly insightful and honest, as she writes about her sadness and jealousy for the war, and her constant fear that she may never see him again.  This is also the first book that I have read while the author was still alive and after he died.  This is definitely food for thought as it gives the average U.S. citizen real appreciation for the sacrifices our troops make for our freedom. 5 stars no doubt.