THE BEST AND THE BRIGHTEST

by David Halberstam
THE BEST AND THE BRIGHTEST cover
Good Books rating 3.75
History, Political, Military, Adventure
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  • ID: 8118
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9781588360984
  • Publisher: Modern Library
  • Published: 2002-03-26
  • Reviews: 3

David Halberstam's masterpiece delves into the intricate web of politics, ego, and misjudgment that culminated in America's involvement in Vietnam. Through vivid portraits of key figures and a meticulous examination of the forces driving them, Halberstam offers a compelling narrative that answers the enduring question of why America became entangled in Vietnam and why the war was ultimately lost. This definitive account is not just a historical analysis but also a profound reflection on the American psyche and its idealistic soul. /n/n Praised for its comprehensive and engaging narrative, The Best and the Brightest is a classic that has stood the test of time. It provides a rich, entertaining, and profound reading experience, offering insights into the tragic chain of events that led to one of the most significant and devastating chapters in American history. Halberstam's work is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities and consequences of U.S. foreign policy.

Reviews
The Washington Post · Eugene Robinson · 2022-08-31
critical 3.50

The book offers a critical look at the Vietnam War and its lasting impact on American politics. It's a reminder of the dangers of self-congratulatory populism.

Eugene Robinson reflects on the enduring legacy of Halberstam's work, particularly its critique of the Vietnam War. He notes that the book's title has become a part of the political lexicon, symbolizing the hubris and miscalculations of the era. Robinson appreciates how the book exposes the flaws in the decision-making process, but also cautions against the complacency that can come from looking back. He finds the book's insights still relevant today, as they highlight the risks of political arrogance and the importance of humility in governance.

Quick quotes

    A lingering legacy of Vietnam, partly perpetrated by Halberstam's memorably titled book, is a comfortable, self-congratulatory populism.

    The book offers a critical look at the Vietnam War and its lasting impact on American politics.

    It's a reminder of the dangers of self-congratulatory populism.

Cannonball Read · Jake · 2019-02-23
rewarding 3.75

The book is an exhausting but rewarding read, with detailed analysis and some redundancy. It's a testament to Halberstam's skill as a writer.

Jake found the book to be both exhausting and rewarding, noting that Halberstam's attention to detail is impressive but can sometimes feel redundant. He appreciates the depth of the analysis and the insight into the political landscape of the time. While the book is dense, Jake believes it's a valuable read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the Vietnam War. He admires Halberstam's ability to weave together historical facts and personal anecdotes, making the narrative both informative and engaging. Despite its length, Jake recommends the book for its thoroughness and the unique perspective it offers.

Quick quotes

    This book is an exhausting read. Halberstam is a first rate scribe but there is a lot of attention to detail and some redundancy.

    It's a testament to Halberstam's skill as a writer.

    While the book is dense, Jake believes it's a valuable read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the Vietnam War.

The Independent · 2010-01-29
insightful 4.00

The book is a comprehensive study of the US involvement in Vietnam, but it is far from dull. It provides a gripping account of the political decisions and missteps that led to the war.

This 700-page study might sound like a dry read, but it's anything but. The reviewer found it engaging and insightful, highlighting the intricate web of political decisions that led the US into the Vietnam War. It's a masterful piece of journalism that sheds light on the human aspects of policy-making. The book doesn't just present facts; it tells a story, making it accessible and compelling. The reviewer appreciates how Halberstam humanizes the figures involved, making their mistakes and successes relatable.

Quick quotes

    It sounds unspeakably dull and ponderous; it was not.

    The book was a 700-page study of how the US came to be mired in the disastrous war in Vietnam.

    It's a masterful piece of journalism that sheds light on the human aspects of policy-making.

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