Ordinary heroes

by Scott Turow
Ordinary heroes cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Biography and Memoir
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  • ID: 8490
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • ISBN: 9780330441339
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2006-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Ordinary Heroes,' Stewart Dubinsky embarks on a journey to understand his father's experiences during wartime. Through his investigation, he uncovers the harrowing decisions and emotional turmoil his father faced on the battlefield, in the courtroom, and in matters of the heart. This deeply personal exploration not only sheds light on the father's character but also provides a stark portrayal of the brutal nature of war. As Stewart pieces together the past, he gains a profound understanding of his own history and the enduring impact of his father's choices.

Reviews
Amy's Scrap Bag · Amy · 2013-10-21
captivating 4.50

The book is a captivating page-turner that offers a complex puzzle. It's a deeply engaging narrative that leaves a lasting impression.

Amy describes Ordinary Heroes as a compelling page-turner that keeps readers hooked with its intricate plot. The novel is more than just a thriller; it's a thoughtfully crafted puzzle that challenges and engages the reader. Amy appreciates the depth and complexity of the story, noting its ability to leave a lasting impression. The review highlights the novel's strength in balancing suspense with thoughtful storytelling, making it a memorable and enjoyable read. Amy's enthusiasm for the book is evident, as she praises its ability to captivate and entertain.

Quick quotes

    Ordinary Heroes was a page-turner and puzzle I truly enjoyed.

    My above review is overly simplified compared to the novel itself; I cannot do it justice.

    The novel is more than just a thriller; it's a thoughtfully crafted puzzle that challenges and engages the reader.

Literary Hoarders · 2012-06-18
heartfelt 4.50

The book is a heartfelt tribute to the author's father, blending intrigue, humor, and sadness. It explores themes of war, love, and the complexities of human nature.

This novel is a beautiful homage to the author's father, who served in World War II. It's not just a war story; it's a deeply personal narrative that weaves together elements of intrigue, humor, and heartbreak. The characters are richly drawn, and the storytelling is both engaging and emotionally resonant. It's a tender nod to the ordinary heroes who shaped our history. The book's strength lies in its ability to balance the grim realities of war with moments of warmth and humor, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    It has intrigue, secrets, love, war, humour, sadness and heartbreak.

    At the heart of it, I feel it is a tender nod to Turow's father, his ordinary hero who served in World War II.

    The characters are richly drawn, and the storytelling is both engaging and emotionally resonant.

The Guardian · Steven Poole · 2006-02-18
powerful 4.00

Turow's departure from legal thrillers is a success, offering a gripping battle story with profound moral dilemmas. The narrative is both powerful and thought-provoking.

Steven Poole praises Turow's shift from legal thrillers to a battle story, highlighting its gripping narrative and profound exploration of moral choices. The novel is a powerful thriller that delves into the complexities of wartime decisions, making it a standout in Turow's repertoire. Poole appreciates the depth and intensity of the story, noting its ability to captivate readers with its emotional and ethical dilemmas. The Guardian review underscores the novel's strength in blending action with thoughtful reflection, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    Scott Turow, master of the legal thriller, has written a first-rate battle story with Ordinary Heroes.

    A powerful thriller that strips bare wartime's moral choices.

    The novel is a standout in Turow's repertoire, blending action with thoughtful reflection.

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