Viet Journal

New York: Delacorte Press, 1974. First Printing [stated]. Hardcover. Very good/Good. The format is approximately 5.75 inches by 8.5 inches. [12], 257 pages. Name in ink on fep. DJ has some wear and is in a plastic sleeve. James Ramon Jones (November 6, 1921 - May 9, 1977) was an American novelist known for his explorations of World War II and its aftermath. He won the 1952 National Book Award for his first published novel, From Here to Eternity, which was adapted for the big screen immediately and made into a television series a generation later. The Modern Library Board later named it one of the 100 best novels of the 20th century. His wartime experiences inspired some of his most famous works, the so-called war trilogy. He witnessed the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to his first published novel, From Here to Eternity (1951). The Thin Red Line (1962) reflected his combat experiences on Guadalcanal and Whistle (posthumous, 1978) was based on his hospital stay in Memphis, Tennessee, recovering from surgery on an ankle he had reinjured on the island. From a review found on-line: This book is a vivid and candid picture of Vietnam only days before the American troops were supposed to withdraw. If you are interested in Vietnam and the aftermath of the war, this is the book for you. James Jones does a wonderful job of showing the leadership and humanity of the soldiers and commanders in South Vietnam. Filled with great descriptions of Hue, Saigon, Dak Pek, Pleiku, and other areas. This is a very fast read and one that will help aid in understanding of the mindset of the American men who fought in America's most controversial war. Derived from a Kirkus review: A day-by-day account of the novelist's travels around Vietnam right before the US troop pullout. A chance acquaintance with General Weyand, head of MACV (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam) helps Jones obtain not only a visa to the South but crucial military cooperation in getting around the land. The climax of the trip comes with a brief semi-licit copter hop with a Special Forces pal to a much fought over Border Ranger outpost inside enemy territory. On the way home Jones stops in Hawaii to review the scenes he lived both as himself and Private Prewitt in From Here to Eternity.