38 pages 1 hour read

Philip Caputo

A Rumor of War

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1977

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In his 1977 memoir, A Rumor of War, Philip Caputo recounts his experience as a Marine lieutenant in Vietnam, detailing his journey from an idealistic young man to a disillusioned soldier haunted by the brutal realities of war and the psychological toll it takes on combatants. This memoir includes intense depictions of violence, death, and moral conflict experienced by soldiers.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Philip Caputo's A Rumor of War is widely praised for its unflinching depiction of the Vietnam War, reflecting the author's personal experiences with raw honesty. Readers appreciate its vivid storytelling and emotional depth. However, some criticize its graphic content and perceived bias. Overall, it is regarded as a powerful, albeit controversial, memoir.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Rumor of War?

Fans of A Rumor of War by Philip Caputo typically appreciate vivid, personal war narratives and reflective memoirs. Comparable to readers of Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried or Michael Herr's Dispatches, they seek poignant explorations of the Vietnam War, deeply human experiences, and the psychological impacts of combat.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Military / War

History: U.S.

History: World

Themes

Society: War

Period

Vietnam War

Genre

Biography