IN COUNTRY

by Bobbie Ann Mason
IN COUNTRY cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 8140
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9781555040222
  • Publisher: John Curley & Associates
  • Published: 1985-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

In Country is a deeply moving novel that explores the personal and historical impact of the Vietnam War through the eyes of a young girl. The story delves into the emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by those left behind, intertwining public history with private suffering. The novel is praised for its brilliant narrative and its ability to evoke a sense of both personal and collective anguish. It is a powerful exploration of how war shapes lives long after the battles have ended. The novel's setting and themes provide a rich backdrop for the characters' journeys, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction and the human experience.

Reviews
Sixties: A Journal of History, Politics and Culture · Sixties: A Journal of History, Politics and Culture · 2025-12-20
powerful 4.00

The story is told through the eyes of a young girl, offering a unique coming-of-age perspective. It's a powerful narrative that explores themes of loss and identity.

The reviewer notes that Mason doesn't try to think like a veteran but instead tells the story through the eyes of a young girl, providing a unique coming-of-age perspective. They find the narrative powerful and engaging, exploring themes of loss and identity in a way that resonates with readers. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the emotional impact of the story, making it a compelling read. They believe it's a valuable contribution to the literature on the Vietnam War and its aftermath.

Quick quotes

    To begin with, Mason doesn't try to think like a veteran. The story is told not through Emmett's eyes, but through Sam's.

    This is a coming-of-age story, finally, that explores themes of loss and identity in a powerful way.

    The novel offers a unique perspective on the Vietnam War and its impact on those who did not fight but were deeply affected by it.

The Universe Disturbed · The Universe Disturbed · 2013-07-17
engaging 4.00

The novel challenges the typical white male perspective on Vietnam, offering a unique and engaging narrative. It's a compelling read that stands out for its fresh viewpoint.

The reviewer highly recommends this novel for its ability to challenge the conventional white male perspective often associated with Vietnam. They find Mason's approach refreshing and engaging, providing a unique lens through which to view the Vietnam War and its aftermath. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the story, which offers a compelling narrative that stands out in the literary landscape. They believe it's a must-read for those looking for a different take on the Vietnam War.

Quick quotes

    I'd recommend this novel, because it challenges the white male perspective we usually associate with Vietnam.

    Mason provides an interesting and engaging narrative that stands out for its unique viewpoint.

    The novel offers a compelling read that challenges conventional perspectives on Vietnam.

Los Angeles Times · Los Angeles Times · 1985-09-22
brilliant 4.50

The novel is a brilliant and moving work that intertwines public history with private anguish. It's a moral tale that resonates deeply with readers.

The Los Angeles Times praises 'In Country' as a brilliant and moving work that masterfully intertwines public history with private anguish. They highlight the novel's ability to create a profound and resonant narrative that explores the moral complexities of the Vietnam War. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the emotional impact of the story, making it a standout piece of literature. They believe it's a must-read for anyone interested in the human experience during and after the Vietnam War.

Quick quotes

    In Country, a brilliant and moving work, uses them to furnish a moral tale that entwines public history with private anguish.

    One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its ability to explore the moral fallout of the Vietnam War.

    The novel resonates deeply with readers, offering a profound and emotional journey.

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