THE PHANTOM BLOOPER

by Gustav Hasford
THE PHANTOM BLOOPER cover
Good Books rating 3.87
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 8144
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • Publisher: Bantam
  • Published: 1990-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

The Phantom Blooper is another major novel from one of the most startling and able chroniclers of the Vietnam experience. This book promises to deliver a powerful and immersive narrative that captures the essence of the war and its impact on those who lived through it. The author's unique perspective and vivid storytelling bring the Vietnam War to life in a way that is both harrowing and deeply human. /n/n This novel is not just a story of conflict and battle, but also a profound exploration of the emotional and psychological toll that war takes on individuals. It delves into the personal journeys of its characters, revealing the complexities and contradictions of human nature in the face of extreme adversity. The Phantom Blooper is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War and its enduring legacy.

Reviews
Montclair State University · 2025-12-20
poignant 4.00

The book is dedicated to the veterans of the Vietnam War and teaches the reader more about the conflict than most history books. It's a poignant and informative read.

This reviewer notes that the book is dedicated to the three million veterans of the Vietnam War, highlighting the betrayal they felt by their country. They found the book to be a poignant and informative read, teaching more about the conflict than most history books combined. The reviewer suggests that the book is a powerful exploration of the Vietnam War, highlighting the emotional and psychological impact on those involved. They also note that the book is a moving experience that stays with the reader long after finishing it.

Quick quotes

    This book is dedicated to the three million veterans of the Viet Nam War.

    Three million loyal men and women who were betrayed by their country.

    This novel is a book that between the covers will teach the reader more about what went on in Vietnam over 40 years ago than most history books combined will.

The New York Times · 1990-04-15
gripping 3.50

The book effectively renders the chaos of battle and the futility of war. It's a gripping and intense read.

This reviewer appreciated how the book effectively renders the chaos of battle and the disintegration of authority. They found the portrayal of the futility of war to be particularly gripping and intense. The reviewer suggests that the book is a powerful exploration of the Vietnam War, highlighting the emotional and psychological impact on those involved. They also note that the book is a gripping read that keeps the reader engaged throughout.

Quick quotes

    Hasford effectively renders the chaos of battle.

    The disintegration of authority is a recurring theme.

    The futility of taking part in a war that cannot and perhaps should not be won is a powerful theme.

Goodreads · 1990-01-01
brilliant 4.10

Each chapter is a brilliant portrayal of the war, and together they form a Vietnam epic. The book is a powerful and moving experience.

This reviewer found each chapter to be a brilliant and singular portrayal of the war. They believe that together, these chapters form a kind of Vietnam epic. They highlight the book's power and emotional impact, suggesting it's a must-read for those interested in the Vietnam War. The reviewer also notes that the book is a moving experience that stays with the reader long after finishing it.

Quick quotes

    Taken individually, each is a brilliant & singular portrayal of the war.

    Taken together, we have a kind of Vietnam epic.

    If you can find The Phantom Blooper, it's a must-read.

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