THE SHORT-TIMERS

by Gustav Hasford
THE SHORT-TIMERS cover
Good Books rating 4.07
Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Crime
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  • ID: 8143
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
  • Published: 1979-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

The Short-timers is a powerful and unflinching look at the Vietnam War through the lens of a young Marine recruit. The novel blends dark humor with intense action, offering a unique perspective on the horrors and absurdities of war. /n/n Written by a veteran, the book provides an authentic and visceral portrayal of the Marine Corps experience, capturing the camaraderie, fear, and disillusionment of soldiers in a brutal and unforgiving environment.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-12-20
brutal 4.20

The novel is a brutal and disturbing tale that delves into the savage nature of war. It's a gripping but unsettling read that leaves a strong impact.

Reviewers on Goodreads describe 'The Short-Timers' as a brutal and disturbing exploration of war's horrors. The novel's unflinching portrayal of violence and the dehumanizing effects of combat makes for a gripping but unsettling read. While some readers might find the content challenging, the raw and intense writing ensures it leaves a lasting impression. The novel's connection to the film 'Full Metal Jacket' adds to its appeal, but it's the stark and vivid storytelling that truly stands out.

Quick quotes

    A brutal tale. A disturbing tale. A vicious tale. A creepy, overwhelming tale.

    Get set to enter a savage world where men are turned into bloodthirsty killers.

    It's a gripping but unsettling read that leaves a strong impact.

Alex Lanz - Substack · Alex Lanz · 2022-02-13
fantastic 4.50

The novel is a fantastic piece of war fiction, capturing the essence of the Vietnam War with intense and vivid writing. It's a must-read for fans of war literature.

Alex Lanz highly recommends 'The Short-Timers', praising it as a standout in war fiction. They were impressed by the novel's intense and vivid portrayal of the Vietnam War, which feels authentic and unflinching. Lanz highlights the book's ability to immerse readers in the brutal reality of war, making it a compelling and unforgettable read. The novel's connection to the film 'Full Metal Jacket' adds an extra layer of interest, but it stands strongly on its own merits.

Quick quotes

    The novel by Gustav Hasford that ended up as Full Metal Jacket is a fantastic book, a true speeding bolt of war fiction.

    The source of the Kubrick film, but far more than just a source text.

    It's a must-read for anyone interested in the raw, unvarnished truth of war.

Drew Martin Writes · Drew Martin · 2018-02-13
engaging 3.50

The novel is a quick read, with a visceral and unglamorous portrayal of war. It's engaging, though the lack of a traditional narrative structure might leave some readers wanting more.

Drew Martin found 'The Short-Timers' to be a compelling, if unconventional, read. They appreciated the raw and unfiltered depiction of war, which stands out for its honesty and lack of glamour. The novel's brevity and ease of reading make it accessible, but the absence of a clear storyline might not satisfy everyone. Overall, it's a powerful exploration of the brutality of war, leaving a lasting impression despite its shortcomings.

Quick quotes

    A short novel at 180 pages, and rather easy to read as I got through it in a few days.

    I enjoyed, at least I think I enjoyed it.

    Hasford's writing is terse, visceral, and real.

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