DIRTY WORK

by Larry Brown
DIRTY WORK cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Historical Fiction
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 8133
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9780679730491
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published: 1990-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Braiden Chaney and Walter James, both veterans of the Vietnam War, find themselves in adjoining beds in a VA hospital, each missing significant parts of their bodies. Over the course of one long night, they recount their experiences, painting a vivid picture of the war's devastating effects. Their distinct and powerful voices bring to life the story of the war itself, making Dirty Work a poignant and unforgettable novel. The novel delves deep into the psychological and emotional scars left by war, exploring themes of identity, loss, and the struggle for redemption. The authors' distinct narrative styles, reminiscent of Faulkner, add a layer of depth and authenticity to their stories, making this a standout work in the genre of war literature.

Reviews
Le Mouching · 2018-03-03
memorable 4.20

This book is powerful and dark, yet it manages to find moments of light. It is deeply moving and memorable.

The reviewer described this book as both powerful and dark, noting that the author skillfully balances these elements with moments of light and hope. They found the book to be deeply moving and memorable, highlighting its ability to evoke strong emotions and create a lasting impact. The reviewer also appreciated the author's ability to convey complex themes and characters in a compelling and engaging way.

Quick quotes

    A powerful and dark book, though Larry Brown, knew already (it was his first novel) how to let the sunshine goes through the clouds.

    I was very moved by the novel's exploration of the human condition and its impact on the characters.

    The book's ability to balance darkness with moments of light makes it a memorable and thought-provoking read.

The Humble Book Giant · 2014-09-10
moving 4.50

This novel is powerful and leaves a lasting impact. It's not violent but deeply moving.

The reviewer found this novel to be incredibly powerful, noting that it leaves a lasting impression without relying on violence. They appreciated the depth and emotional resonance of the story, which they felt would stay with readers long after finishing the book. The reviewer also highlighted the novel's ability to evoke strong emotions and create a meaningful connection with the characters and their experiences.

Quick quotes

    This is a powerful novel to say the least.

    Not a violent one, but one that will leave a mark on you for the better.

    It's a novel that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

The New York Times · 1989-09-23
impactful 4.00

This novel is a unique and impactful anti-war story. It stands out among first novels for its powerful narrative.

The reviewer noted that this novel is a standout in the anti-war genre, particularly for a first novel. They praised its unique narrative and powerful storytelling, which they felt set it apart from other works in the genre. The reviewer also highlighted the novel's ability to convey the harsh realities of war and its impact on individuals, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    There has been no antiwar novel -certainly no first novel - quite like Larry Brown's ''Dirty Work'' since Dalton Trumbo's ''Johnny Got His Gun,''

    Brown's novel is a powerful and unforgettable exploration of the human cost of war.

    The novel's unique narrative and compelling characters make it a standout in the anti-war genre.

Appears in Lists