Asia Books

The information is this book is good, but focuses more on the budget traveler. If you want to make a tour of south east asia as cheap as possible, this book is probably a great resource.

What is really different about this book is the maps. There are tons of maps, all hand drawn in style and these maps have notes scribbled all over them. It isn't that great for finding something specific but it a very good idea for finding out what is near where you are. If you are not a planner, and just like to go and see what is going on once you are there, then this book may be great for you.

If you are a planner, and you don't arrive anywhere without a itinerary, then this book is likely to be a hindrance since so much information is organized ON the maps.

This book seems to have all crucial information you will ever need when backpacking in SE Asia. Thin as a leaflet compared to many other traveller guides, but with at least as much information. Just be prepared to spend a smallish amount of time to learn how to use it and to remember the most important symbols.

This book was awesome.
I used it in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
I had a lonely planet somewhere deep in my backpack, but it never saw daylight until I left it in my room in Hanoi. Pretty much every place I went, I just took a quick look at the map and had a reasonable idea of what to do next or where to go.

I met a lot of travelers who were impressed with it as well. I ended up giving it away as a gift on my way out.

If you like a little more adventure than something like a lonely planet and don't want to bury your head in a guidebook, go with this.

Also, the book emphasizes the philosophy that meeting people is what travelling is all about, more so than just seeing things. And I completely agree with that. So if that's your bag, then this book is certainly for you.

Lastly, it is slightly dated (like prices, specific bus timings, etc.). But the information is still very usable.

This book became a close, guarded part of my experience in South East Asia. Mark Elliot has excellent insider tips and maps for things to see and do in every area of that part of the world!

This guidebook is indispensable. It's easy to use once you figure out the map key, lightweight, and had tons of very accurate useful information. I loved it!! I ended up having the most reliable guidebook of anyone else I met.

This book really enhances, enlarges and clarifies one's understanding of Lady Muraski's world and though not necessary reading really enriches one's reading of The Tale of Genji.

Mr Morris is my hero! He manages to make an extremely complex subject a joy to read and study...Gosh, i wish other subjects could be this engaging. In the world of the shining prince everything has a protocol and a reason to been, Mr Morris manages to explain many important details that may, at first, be just tiny observations and passing glances in the story. This study book provides readers with tools to better understanding the kilometric "Tale of Genji"

This book is just what I needed after reading The Tale of Genji. Besides providing extremely detailed historical information on the time period, it is just a good read in general, being extremely well written. Ivan Morris also draws dozens of interesting parallels between Heian Japan and other societies throughout world history. I would definitely recommend this book.

Although forty years have passed since the first publication of Ivan Morris' "The World of the Shining Prince," no other book has appeared that can challenge either its elegance or its utility in introducing a Western audience to the glories of Heian-period Japan. Although written to provide cultural context for readers of the 11th-century "Tale of Genji" novel, Morris' study has serendipitously come to serve as well the growing legions of Westerners fascinated by Japanese religion, fashion and textiles, art, military sports, and fantasy folklore.

"The World of the Shining Prince" begins by looking at the broad political and societal nature of the Heian period (794-1185). It then works toward an increasingly specific examination of the "Tale of Genji" itself and the novel's author, Murasaki Shikibu. Along the way, individual chapters are devoted to those aspects of Heian culture that feature prominently in the book, namely religion, superstitions, the court elites, the cult of beauty, and the role of women. Appendices, meanwhile, provide welcome genealogical tables and a glossary.

What do most people think about when someone mentions Japan? Samurai, ninjas, tea ceremony, karate, and kabuki? Can you imagine a Japan without these things? Actually this book describe just such a Japan. In the Heian period (950-1050AD), Japan was dominated by life at the imperial court. The ideal man was a gentle, poetry-writing aristocrat and the women were some of first novel writers in the world. It contrasts greatly from the macho military culture that Japan is known for.

Morris gives a run-down of the world of Heian Japan. As he gives this cultural information, he also offers passages fro "The Tale of Genji," a literary masterpiece written by a woman (Murasaki Shikibu) in this period.

This book is great for people who are reading "The Tale of Genji." It gives you a lot of background and cultural information that will help you understand it. Also it's great for those who want to learn about a totally different Japan. It's a definite must read.

Boy Genius is the book the world has been waiting for, but even as I have just heard of it and read it, is still draped out from the millions who are longing to read a piece as timeworthy and creative, informative and realistically imaginative and even controversial as Boy Genius. This book carries more themes and understandings of the real-world than reading the New York Times of the passed forty years. Some of the actions and interpretations are almost directly attached to our present wartime era and crime rate, so connected that the tale, like its characters is very psychic. The Revenge/Mystery storyline also delivers a suspenseful climb that keeps the reader addicted as well as its creative comic relief and a cartoon/comic realism that definitely adds a new dynamic edge.
Mr. Park, if you're reading this, I recommend that you get it into the theaters; each message or theme in the book is not only to stand out in the book but should stand out as a "matter-of-fact" to the population.

Adam M.
author of "Pulchritude for the Mind"
"Reflections of the Dream Panorama"
"Keeping Life Well-Rounded Vol.1"

'Boy Genius' by Yongsoo Park is as invigorating as the original screenplay by Terry Southern for 'Dr. Strangelove'. (The movie was terrific, of course, but Southern's screenplay was even more so.) Park dissects, then Frankenstein's, then dissects again every conceivable myth about global capitalism with high hilarity and maximum inventiveness. The Boy Genius of the title grows up in the slums of Seoul, but soon his brilliance comes to the attention of the All-Supreme Dictator who quite surprisingly grants him enormous privilege, then in a fit of pique the A-S-D chews him up and spits him out. And then we see what BG is made of. He finds his way to present day America under the most appalling circumstances (the plight of a Filipino migrant farm worker in the 30's comes to mind), begins to rebuild his life and that of his family (also vilified by the A-S-D) and finally, yes finally, has his revenge. Characters as vivid as those played by Peter Sellers and George C. Scott in the Kubrick movie and every bit as outrageously funny and mordantly satiric. This is a rollercoaster with all the splendor of the one in 'The Third Man' and all the tension and excitement of that confrontation between Joseph Cotton and Orson Welles. (Hey, am I saying this is a prime candidate for a terrific movie? You bet.) Can't wait for the next Park....

Although I probably read more than the average person, I've never written a review before and in fact I avoid reading them in general, particularly before picking up the book or seeing the movie upon which a review is based. I just finished 2 of this author's books, "Las Cucarachas" and "Boy Genius," and out of curiosity I decided to read what others had to say. Interestingly, many of the reviewers take time comparing this book to other books. I'm going to frankly describe what I myself thought rather than make these comparisons.

First of all, both of this author's books are worth reading, and they should be read as a pair. I would recommend reading "Las Cucarachas" and then "Boy Genius," in that order. I was born and raised in New York City, and I'm from approximately the same generation as the main character in "Las Cucarachas;" to me it's incredible how well the author brings to life what my own childhood was like, growing up and hanging out in the streets of New York- not desperately poor, but poor enough so that the kids from what was called the "middle class" seemed rich by comparison, and were luckier than any of them ever seemed able to see. It's as though the author lived this NYC childhood, with all its obstacles, frustrations and pains, freeze dried it, moved on in his own life, and then went back to it and set it down exactly, precisely, missing nothing, not a single thought, feeling, experience or idea. You read "Las Cucarachas" and you experience the raw, real life of a tough, smart street kid in a big city where money is everything- absolutely, totally everything- and where the kid knows that it's not that society wants him to fail; rather, society is so completely and profoundly indifferent that it can't even be bothered to have an interest in his success or failure either way. Nobody from any middle or upper class background can ever truly know the alienation this situation creates, but by reading "Las Cucarachas" they can sure get a good goddamn taste of it. "Las Cucarachas" is the story of a boy that's forced to gear everything around slickness and toughness, and who's trying to make something happen against impossible odds and what seems like an endless stream of jerks and idiots holding him back and getting in his way. When I finished reading "Las Cucarachas" I felt a strange urge to contact the author, congratulate him for making it through, and thank him for creating such an honest, vivid, and truly touching testimonial to youth.

"Boy Genius" should be read after "Las Cucarachas;" in fact it's remarkable to me that "Boy Genius" was actually written by the same author. "Boy Genius" is so completely different, and not just the subject matter, but the whole style of the book as well. "Las Cucarachas" is raw and gritty; "Boy Genius" begins right off the bat with fantastic events that continue unfolding throughout. The narrator in "Boy Genius" gets you to suspend your disbelief so completely that I myself often looked up from the book while reading and felt an embarrassed smile on my face, as though realizing once again that I was the victim of this author's ongoing, intelligent, playful mischief. Bringing this together- the surreal storyline, the narrator's ever present, eccentric, hilarious and intelligent take on things- and you've got a book, "Boy Genius," that once again is not only wonderful, honest and real, but that's also simply enjoyable to read... and that's something that's important to me for any book that I pick up! I'm still a New Yorker, and I know I've got a book I love when I can take that book onto a crowded train during rush hour on my way to work- and lose myself in it totally and completely, in spite of the fact that I'm being jostled and crushed by stressed and impatient New Yorkers who'd prefer I put the book away, hold onto the handrail and stare at the ceilings and walls like everyone else. Both of the books written by this author passed my test, and I enjoyed both of them enough to not only recommend them and pass them on (I've lent out both of my copies) but also, to look forward to reading the author's next book too.

BOY GENIUS is a surreal dream of paranoia and vengeance played out on a global scale. It's Terry Giliam's BRAZIL played out in the wake of the Cold War. Naturally, the most surreal events in the book are too uncomfortably close to reality. It's a book that stars clever wild dogs who masquerade as children and a title character who's just too smart for his own good. Equal parts ADVENTURES OF HUCK FINN and THE ODYSSEY, BOY GENIUS is for any reader who's ever felt an outsider. It was my first novel and took me three years to write. After numerous rejections from publishers, a 16-year-old summer intern at Akashic Books lobbied for the unsolicited manuscript to be published.

Needless to say, I put pretty much everything of myself into the book. Put simply, the book is what it feels like to be displaced and to always long for a place to call home. Thank you to Akashic Books and to all who have supported this book. And please check out LAS CUCARACHAS, my second novel, which is out in 2004.

---Yongsoo Park

Part of Brooklyn based Akashic Books' Urban Surreal series, BOYGENIUS an example of a) the continued gutsiness and necessity of small presses and b) what really should be a cross-over hit.

In this hilarious and perfectly paced Candide update, Boy Genius tumbles the journey from KBS television-star-child-prodigy to east coast street urchin to west coast new economy suit to avenging ghost. Yet the story never succumbs to its (lesser) cartoon possibility, but functions, despite its fantastic plot, within the wound of reality. And it is a wound, a constantly renewed scarification that Boy Genius first discovers, then weeps for, and finally raises a finger to.

A fierce satire which maintains its humanity, Boy Genius is also a unique event in Korean-American fiction. It recasts the confessional prose of assimilation-conflict driven narratives -- via the imagination -- into a scathing accusation of geopolitical corruption as well as a description of the defiance immigrants currently wage in (as they always have) of bricholaging a consistent sense of self. A new landmark in the landscape of Korean-American literature.

I visited Budapest several times from 1997 through 2001 and am very glad I purchased this guidebook at a bookstore in that city (and I'm happy I still have the copy, especially considering the prices people are asking for it these days). It stands apart from all the other travel guidebooks I know -- Andras Török's humor, literary flourishes and, above all, in-depth knowledge of his native city make it delightful reading even if you're not in Budapest, but the author never forgets that he's writing for travelers whose time in the Hungarian capital is likely limited and who are therefore keen to make the best use of that time. The detailed walking-tour maps are the best of their kind I've ever seen, and the short articles on such topics as the local language and viticulture further enrich the reading experience. Budapest has changed so much over the past six years, however, that I'd recommend obtaining the latest edition (published in 2007 by Park Könyvkiadó) -- and since it's nearly impossible to obtain outside of Hungary at this writing unless you're OK with paying ridiculous shipping fees, I'd recommend buying a copy as soon as you arrive in the marvelous city of Budapest.

We lived in Hungary for one year and used this guide for our weekend trips. Our good Hungarian friends gave it to us. Torok gives you a glorious, historic, poignant trip through this powerful city. Good to read and take the tours, even if you do it from your couch.

I am an ex-pat living here in Budapest. We run a small B and B called BudaBaB, so when we found this book, we bought and lend it to each guest to read. Although we have been here for almost five years, the book is a delightful read that provides interesting facts and information that we would never have learned otherwise. Torok writes with humor and a deep sense of love for his city. It has opened our hearts again and again to a city that we have loved living in already. It just makes it all the richer.

Ryan James

As a true city-lover, I found this book invaluable. Not only will you learn what it is you're looking at, but why you should care, and what makes it interesting. The friendly narrative style is truly entertaining, and all the recommendations are spot-on. It's full of enlightening sidebars by a variety of cultural figures, including "Directors Picks" for some of the major museums. Other guidebooks to Budapest don't do the city justice, but this is the book I wish I could write about my big-city hometown. I completely empathize with Mr. Torok's passion for Budapest--large cities can be just as nurturing and familiar as a small town, particularly when it's your own. If you love exploring cities, and trying your best to unearth their individual personalities (suspecting that it's impossible, but being driven to at least scratch the surface), this book is a must. My only regret was that I only found this book while I was there and already half-way through my visit.

I came across this little gem in a small bookstore while strolling down Andrassy Ut. in Budapest. It's essentially a loving and learned essay on the city slyly disguised as a guidebook. Of course he's got the requisite walking maps, addresses and practical information, but what he really does is to capture the soul of the city and its denizens, past and present. It's clear that his evocative observations and opinions, laced with wit and candor could only have come from one clever guy who's truly lived the life in Budapest. You'll read every page of this book as though it were a novel.

As a helicopter crew chief in Viet Nam, and having seen the A-1's in action, I can say without a doubt that the pilots of these big, slow targets are my heroes! Flying into the teeth of enemy fire, they could and did take a lot of lead. But keep in mind that all it took was one single golden round to knock them out of the sky. At the slow speeds, these guys were able to pinpoint their bombs and strafing runs right where they were needed. While reading "Cheating Death" (three times) I could hear the gunfire, smell the cordite, and feel the adrenaline rush. I want more! You won't put this one down before you read the last page. William E. Peterson

My Uncle Robby (Robert Franklin Coady) was a Skyraider pilot, mentioned in this book, in fact. George Marrett's book brought to life for me the bravery and sacrifice of my uncle, the author and the men they served with.

I am humbled and appreciate the sacrifice of these men who flew the sandys and jollys made during the secret war in Laos in the 60's. These men put their lives on the line every time they went out to rescue downed fliers in Laos. I first learned about the rescue mission of the A-1 from Stephen Count's book "Flight of the Intruder." And I am glad that someone who actually flew these planes wrote an account of their experiences in these strike and rescue missions.

Captain G.J. Marrett writes an informative and readable account of his experiences during the Vietnam conflict. I was surprised to read about the number of planes shot down. I guess this is a compliment to the tenacity of the NVA and the danger of flying these missions. Capt. Marrett flew 187 missions and throughout the book you learn of his dedication to his fellow warriors and his love for aviation and the A-1.

I have come to love the A-1 and the appreciate the amazing capability of this warplane. I would love to get a ride in a A-1E or A-1G but better yet to fly a A-1J. How about it, Captain?

Sock It to 'Em!

While I was aware that the A-1 Skyraider participated in rescues of downed pilots, I had never read of the use of the A-1 indepth until I read "Cheating Death". Since the A-1 was an old, piston-engine aircraft, it is often overlooked, especially when compared to the F-4, F-105 and B-52 and other jets. George Marrett gives long overdue recognition to the crucial role played by the A-1 and the rescue forces in what is often an overlooked, yet important, role during the Vietnam War.

I flew in the same squadron and on the same ship as one of the Navy pilots George and his fellow warriors risked their lives to rescue. It happened on our first day of combat in 1968 and we were all overwhelmed by seeing their dedication to getting him out over three long days. It was like a bad dream. Now, 37 years later, I get to read a gripping, first-person account of this rescue mission and others like it. I am awed and humbled by reading this book. This is the "real deal" folks! No laser-guided, standoff weapons here. Be warned, you will lose sleep for a few nights as you turn these pages well past the time normal people go to bed.

To borrow my daughter's words, Climbing the Stairs included a "little bit of everything! It had some adventure, some action, some romance, some tragedy and just some normal parts." Also, given the historical background and the variety and depth of characters, the book appealed to multiple generations in my home. My parents, my daughter and I, all thoroughly enjoyed the book. The author has a way with words and of mixing history, tradition, fact and fiction. A truly great read.

I shared the book with my mother(Usha) and my daughter(Arathi). All three of us found the plot very engaging and could not put the book down till we finished it. Each of us could identify with Vidya in different ways. The author's narration is so vivid and spontaneous that the characters come to life. The experience of growing up in a 'joint family' is described most realistically. It brought back memories, good and not-so-good, of summer vacations when a whole host of cousins, uncles, aunts would descend on us. The covert hierarchy that exists in extended Indian families is also portrayed very well. In my own family, the more 'successful' and prosperous members were accorded more respect and treated better than the others. They also tended to be about as nasty as Vidya's periamma.
I look forward to reading more books by Padma.

A family tragedy gives Climbing the Stairs its running start. Vidya is a thoughtful and intelligent fifteen-year-old girl growing up in colonial India who dreams of a college education until her father is so badly beaten by British soldiers during a peaceful demonstration that he is brain damaged. She and her mother and brother must then go live in her grandfather's home, where she has to play the Cinderella to her nasty, domineering aunt. Only by "climbing the stairs" from the first floor, the women's quarters, to the library in the second floor, the men's quarters, can Vidya find sanctuary and the books she craves.

Venkatraman writes vividly and with great authenticity about the mood of the times. Indian life, with this Brahmin family's practice of Hinduism, its holidays, prescribed customs and rigid class structure, is portrayed particularly well and she highlights the spiritual struggles of her characters in a way not usually featured in young adult novels. The account of young Vidya's time spent in isolation from the rest of the family in the "outhouse" set aside for menstruating women is worth the price of the book.

The author has based this serious novel on the life of her mother, who grew up in India during that period. Her writing is clear and elegant, and perhaps her story might have been a little more illuminating if she had been able to tell it outside the box of her mother's voice. Nonetheless, there is enough household drama in the lives of Brahmins living on the brink of an India about to change forever to rush the plot forward to Vidya's double happy ending.

Vidya dreams about going to college. She likes to read and enjoys school, and unlike other girls around her she doesn't want to get married. Vidya isn't a typical Indian woman.

Everything is going well for her, until the day her father is brutally beaten by an English soldier. With her father unable to work she must move into her grandfather's house which is occupied by an interesting cast of characters. Vidya's life is miserable and the only solace she finds is going upstairs to the library where she reads for hours. But going upstairs into the men's quarters is forbidden.

While in the library Vidya meets a young man named Raman. He's unlike the others in the household because he treats her like an equal and encourages her to read. As time goes on Vidya begins to develop feelings for Raman but she doesn't know if she is willing to give up college for a man.

What was different about this book compared to so many that I read set during World War II was this book took place in India. Ms. Venkatraman does an excellent of immersing the reader in Indian culture. She explains the foods, festivals and different customs. The caste system is explored in this book as well as the gender roles.

The only drawback to this book is there was no glossary. The author uses so many Indian words, which is wonderful, but I think the addition of a glossary would have helped students.

Overall, I enjoyed this story and I think it would be an excellent book for a social studies teacher to use. So many topics are coved in this book that it would be an excellent teaching too. Teens who want to read about history, politics and other cultures will enjoy this novel.

Have you ever wondered how it might feel to have your marriage arranged for you by your parents and relatives? Have you ever imagined permanently living under the same roof as your extended family? Have you ever known the desperation of living without rights or a voice of your own? If so, Padma Venkatraman's "Climbing the Stairs" is the book for you.

This book gives readers a glimpse into what it means to live in a traditional Indian joint family and of the restrictions imposed on people due to social and cultural norms. It speaks to the searing pain of oppression and the struggle for independence, both national and personal. Vidya, the protagonist of this story, is a curious girl who tries to make sense of the changing world in which she finds herself. India is in the midst of its freedom struggle against British rule and there are strong opinions on how this must be attained. Vidya grapples with the question of "means and ends" and "love and loyalty," while trying to remain true to her still formulating beliefs. Despite circumstances that unalterably change the course of Vidya's life, this courageous spitfire of a girl navigates her circumstances to uncompromisingly reach for her goals. Venkatraman's "Climbing the Stairs" is a fast paced book full of memorable characters, a strong story line, and a satisfying conclusion. I highly recommend readers accompany Vidya on her journey; they will be changed just as she is.

Paul Scotti's writing style makes what could have been a boring history lesson, an exciting and interesting book. Most Coast Guardsmen of that era knew almost nothing about what our ships, boats, and men did in Vietnam. I made two brief visits to Vietnam during that era and was really surprised at how little I knew.At one time Coast Guard recruiting was using the phrase, "Active in Peace and War" This book tells about only one war - the actions after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita tells about one peacetime mission. Semper Paratus! The service was wise to move Paul Scotti out of the gunnery business and into Public Affairs.
Gil Shaw, LCDR, USCG (Ret)

I could not put this book down. I was in the Coast Guard from 1974 to 1978. I spent my last year and a half on a 82ft WPB. The stories about the 82's peaked my interest. The Coast Guard did a great job in in Vietman. Even my 13 year old sons read the book and learned about the Coast Guards role in Vietnam.

Semper Paratus.....................

Paul Scotti presents a thoroughly researched and documented history of the Coast Guard in Vietnam. He expertly uses first-hand sources to supplement and tell his story. Real people with very human emotions and reactions. It is a historical overview but reads like a novel. You will enjoy.

In peacetime, the invaluable service provided by our nation's fifth branch of the armed forces, the United States Coast Guard is certainly well known. Especially after 9/11, the Coast Guard shoulders the responsibility for protecting thousands of miles of coast line. Commercial and pleasure craft alike can count on the Coast Guard to respond to any distress in foul weather and in fair. It is befitting that President George W. Bush had recently bestowed such praise on the men and women that serve in the United States Coast Guard. In wartime, however, the accomplishments of the Coast Guard are often over-shadowed by the other branches of the service. Nowhere is this oversight more glaring than the Coast Guard's participation in America's involvement in Vietnam. In _Coast Guard Action in Vietnam: Stories of Those Who Served_, Paul C. Scotti provides a remedy for this omission with an engaging narrative of a little known chapter in the Vietnam conflict. Scotti blends organizational, operational and oral histories splendidly in a fast-paced account that never gets bogged down in jargon. The author thoroughly outlines the five-fold mission of the U.S. Coast Guard in Vietnam: interdicting enemy supply lines at sea; providing security at South Vietnam's harbors and sea ports; implementing and tending to buoys and other navigational aids; ensuring quality control over civilian merchant shipping; and of course, conducting search and rescue missions. Scotti devotes a chapter to each of the five tasks while delegating others to individual combat missions. Scotti clearly demonstrates that it was the Coast Guard that squelched the North Vietnamese efforts the supply the south by way of open sea. It was the Coast Guard that brought efficiency to South Vietnam's chaotic and primitive harbor facilities, allowing merchant vessels to contribute to the United States mammoth logistical apparatus. And it was the Coast Guard that performed numerous humanitarian missions as well. Scotti writes from experience, having himself served as a gunner on an 82-foot CG patrol boat in Vietnam. It is this craft, the workhorse of the Coast Guard fleet, and the men who served aboard them that provides the nucleus of the book. Scotti became USCG public affairs officer and his observational and organizational skills as a journalist are evident throughout. Nowhere, however, does he allow unit pride to obscure an honest attempt at objective history. The book is generously sprinkled with maps, graphs, and photographs, many from the author's own collection. Numerous appendices containing historical and statistical data, bibliography and notes complete the package. One small criticism, however, it is regrettable that Scotti's work did not receive a hard cover edition for which it is certainly deserving. Reading Scotti's book will leave one with a whole new take on the Vietnam war at sea, and a whole new appreciation for our U.S. Coast Guard veterans. This book comes highly recommended.

I am a CG Vietnam veteran having served aboard the CG Cutter Chase, CG Squadron 3 in 1969-70. Paul Scotti's book is the definitive book about the CG operations in Vietnam. Paul gets you up front and personal to the point you can smell the smoke and hear the gunfire. His book vividly describes the everyday life of a Coastie in Vietnam be it on the water, in the air or at the base and will touch your hearts as you read not only about combat but about the many humanitarianism projects that the folks back home never new about. After reading this book you will realize just how important and diverse our Coast Guard is and have a new respect for the brave men and women of our oldest "Naval" military service. "I know, I was there". Read this book and you'll be there too!!

I had the honor and pleasure of serving with Alex Lee when he was the Battalion Commander of 3/1 during the 1970's. I was greatly impressed and positively influenced by him then. It was only recently that I learned of this book and had an opportunity to read it. Colonel Lee's account of the Vietnam war as he and his Recon Marines experienced it is vivid and profound. Perhaps most enlightening were the 'politics' and bureaucracies he was continually faced with from above while trying to execute his unit's mission. Alex Lee was unquestionably a Marine's Marine, and I would highly recommend this book for anyone desiring an inside view of Marine Corps recon operations in a volatile and ever-changing combat setting.

I bought this book from Amazon, my favorite cyberspace mall! Alex Lee gives a good accounting on what it takes to accomplish objectives despite obstacles that are inherent in the command and control structure of the military organization. It's been that way since Caesar took on the Senate and lost. As Lee describes it, he and the 3rd Force Recon prevailed through the hardship and agony of a jungle war by carrying on the tradition of "The Old Breed." This should be one of the books for junior officers to read to inspire them on what it takes to adapt and overcome. Solid historical record of one period of time in I Corps with the 3rd Force Recon, United States Marine Corps. Semper Fi.

This is a great book by Alex Lee that describes his experiences commanding a Marine recon company near the DMZ in 1969-70.
He does and excellent job describing the perils of even getting to his assigned position at the time, as different personnel shops wanted to Shanghi him for other duties. Only appeals to the commanding general in his area got him to his post.
His group was an outcast outfit that had to scrounge for equipment. He had fights with rear echelon people to get adequate gear and air support. He had one Lt. that turned out to be a coward and almost caused many other casualties. He was gotten rid of, and later, back in the states found that the Lt was about to be made Cpt. He described what had happened, and the person resigned from the Marines.
He had 6 person teams inserted to do recon work. Some headquarters people thought that 8 person teams were better, ignoring the fact that only 6 can be put on one chopper.
He was given direct orders to put in 8 man teams, and just ignored them.
A Col Patton even said his men were liars when they reported trucks at Ashau. Later, truck parts were taken from Ashau and presented to the Col's assistant, as Col Patton was not there.

Maj Lee had to scrounge supplies from the Army, Air Force, Navy, the CIA, and even rations from the Australians.
The bravery of the helicopter pilots is described in some detail. He rode with one pilot on a mission that got the pilot the Navy Cross. Maj Lee got no award, even though he was right behind the pilot the whole time.
Maj Lee went on several missions himself, so has detail memory of those events. A tiger was around on one of their patrols, keeping everyone awake.
The lack of security of B-52 missions was discussed. Many were wasted as the North Vietnamese were told days in advance that a target was to be bombed, so they got out of the way.
Effects of B-52 raids is described, as his unit went to see the after affects of the bombings in his sector. When they did hit something, the carnage was great.
The book describes a group of very brave men, doing a very difficult mission. They knew that the U.S. was pulling out of Vietnam, and could have coasted, but did not.

Sir, Your accounting of the abilities of our teams brought back so many memories. The price we had to pay is still so unknown to so many. I carry the memory of my friend and teammate Sgt.A.Garcia with me every day. I am proud that I had the honor to serve under you and with men like him. For those who fought for it freedom has a taste the protected will never know.
Doc Parrish 3rd. Force Recon 1969-1970

I believe this is a very balanced work, and sets forth a compelling remembrance of the good and great men who served under unspeakable conditions, and gained little by it for themselves but silent honor.

I bought and read this book, after returning from the funeral of my friend's father, Lt. Col. Buck Coffman, this past weekend (1 Sept., '01). Col. Coffman was a fascinating, remarkable man who served his nation well. Sometimes, perhaps, better than it's people deserved. I knew him apart from his role as warrior (though ALWAYS a Marine), and he set a standard to aspire to, as a man and as Man. He was loved truly by his family and friends.

At his memorial service, I had the privelege of meeting the author, Col. Lee, as well as Maj. Norton, Col. Morris, Gen. Gray and several of the other courageous men who served with them in the Marines; men written of in this book. Each and every one of them impressed me with their intelligence, decency and honor, and for the love they so obviously share for one another.

I am now starting on Doc Norton's Force Recon Diaries. I am very grateful to the men who write these books. We should always remember that giants DO walk the earth. I'm honored to have spent a time, even but a moment, in the shadow of one.

George Perkovich has produced a seminal work on India's nuclear weapons program. He analyzes the political, economic, security issues that have contributed to India's decision-making regarding the bomb. George has correctly identified India as being caught in a dilemma for a long time over nuclear weapons testing. India also provides the only example of a nuclear weapons program that was openly debated in a democratic society. This debate (which ranked often very low on the priorities of successive prime ministers who correctly placed socio-economic development as a higher priority) has led to India shifting its position over time -- one from being the first proponent of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty to opposing it due to is discriminatory nature today. It describes how India's opposition to nuclear weapons in the '50s which was perceived as being moralizing in the West, has now changed to embrace weapons since the nuclear Non Proliferation Treaty permanently endorsed the nuclear weapons status of the five declared nuclear powers without any comprehensive, binding time-table for destroying all nuclear weapons -- a position that India objects to as being discriminatory.

A must-read for anyone interested in nuclear weapons proliferation and arms control negotiations today.

Less to do with the bomb per se, but a scholarly history of the Indian nuclear program. This is a work that will be quoted again and again.

This is easily one of the best books I have read about my own country. Very informative.

Note to editorial Reviewers: India entered the nuclear club in May 1974 and not in May 1998 as suggested by some of your reviews.

Some highlights of the book.

* The term nuclear "haves" and "have-nots" was coined by Homi Bhabha initially and used by others and till date has been central to putting forth our country's opposition to NPT and CTBT.

* University of Chicago's late Prof. Chandrasekhar's refusal to head the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) after the death of patriot Dr. Homi Bhabha.

* One of my disappointment is the author's avoidance in the discussion of the cause of the death of Dr. Homi Bhabha, even though such an incident is beyond the scope of this book. Since Bhabha provided the impetus and leadership during the nuclear program's infancy, I expected the author to throw some light on this issue.

* Vikram Sarabhai's hatred for Nuclear tests is news, especially since he was heading the Atomic Energy commision. As a spaceman it is surprising that he headed the organization in the first place.

* Indira Gandhi's refusal to allow more nuclear tests after 1974 stemmed from her abhorence for anything nuclear after her post-Pokhran I experiences. This is contrary to the popular belief - international pressure.

* Most sections of the book has an objective view of the Indian nuclear scenario except the last few chapters where the author seems to bend towards India signing the CTBT and the NPT. Or atleast implying that India's moral stand on nuclear issue was defeated after the May 98 tests.

* BJP (and its predecessor Jana Sangh) has been the only political party to openly campaign for Nuclear power.

It is time that India and Pakistan get the respect they deserve as nuclear powers. Why is it that France, Germany, Israel, the U.S., Russia, and South Africa (now supposedly non-nuclear) have been able to garner the respect that China, India and Pakistan are alluded by? Is it becuase they are not white Europeans? Nontheless, a well researched book.

As an Indian immensely proud of his country's accomplishments and having had to enter multiple debates with other non-Indians in May 1998, I gained a great amount from the book. It is immaculately researched and it seems that Perkovich has left no stone unturned. It goes into such depth and understanding of the Indian polity's psyche as previously unseen from a non-Indian author. Perkovich is not merely narrating a set of events which led to the testing but defending a theory that goes against current understandings of international relations and nuclear non-profileration by setting India as an example. I enjoyed every chapter of the book and hope that current policy makers in the field learn from it. A must read for every Indian interested it their country's policies and others making policy for the rest of the world.

James Parker's blood and tears narrative joins dozens of other Vietnam War books but deserves the top shelf for its breadth and sheer readability. Parker was one of the few who came early and stayed late, leading an Army platoon through firefights, death and occasional glory during the early U.S. buildup and watching, as a CIA case officer, the chaos and humiliation at the end, when the war had long since lost the support of most Americans.
Parker never wavers from believing that the cause - keeping a country free from a ferocious invader - was noble. He hangs the war's failure on a corrupt and inept South Vietnamese government and failed U.S. decision-making. If some readers find that thesis too uncomplicated, it hardly detracts from Parker's unflinching prose and relentless focus on the people that are the power of this book - youngsters he led who fought and died, fellow officers he loved as brothers, superiors good and not so good, tough and honorable South Vietnamese generals, officious Saigon bureaucrats and ordinary traumatized Vietnamese.
Parker captures the sense of fear and menace, the unreality and futility that are a soldier's daily grind, and in many instances what he calls the "randomness of war." A single misstep off a path and an officer friend is blown to bits by a mine. A fine tank commander laid into a body bag as his tour is soon to end. A fresh young private shot mistakenly by comrades. A stone-faced villager who trips a deadly explosion. Naked terror squirming through tunnels chasing wounded Vietcong. A trusted Vietnamese bodyguard left to fate unknown as the enemy tightens a noose around Saigon.
Parker's straightforward chronology makes compelling structure: unfocused young Southerner joins the Army, finds he has the stuff of an officer, earns medals and manhood in the jungle, survives his one-year tour, comes home to a strangely discordant nation, marries and goes back to college, joins the CIA, returns to Indochina for the end game of the "secret" war in Laos, then finally helps the frenzied exodus from crumbling, beaten South Vietnam - and from a spent and discredited policy.
The men stalking the jungle, firing the artillery, driving the tanks and piloting the jets and choppers will always be heroes to Parker, an unabashed fan of the concept of duty and country. When you meet the men in these pages - Peterson, Dunn, Woolley, Bratcher, Crash, McCoy, Castro, Ayers, Slippery Clunker Six, Duckett, Spencer and many more, it is hard not to buy into Parker's idea that there were indeed good and honorable aspects of this war.

Easy reading, fast-paced action, pithy, incisive commentary. Does not dwell on brutal details. James Parker presents the Vietnam war from the inside--not a pretty picture but a very good book from an author who is a gifted writer into the bargain.

From the humorous to the horrific...from tragedy to triumph...and a somber assessment of what really happened in Southeast Asia, this short and powerful book is essential reading for those considering work in the patriotic service.

If my son were to enter the service, I would require him to read Mr Parker's book. The details of how to survive Army life are staight forward and important. I found the book easy and enjoyable to read. Could not put it down. As with any super book, I often found myself looking at the number of pages left to read-the more the merrier. Mr. Parker has truely made something of himself and the people of the United States have reaped the benefits. Thank you Mr. Parker.

Last Man Out: A Personal Account of the Vietnam War by James E. Parker, Jr. is the best book I've read in a long time. If this author didn't have a tape recorder or a diary that he wrote in everyday then I have to say he has a most remarkable memory. James takes the reader back to his home in North Carolina and introduces his family and friends. He continues as he makes the decision to enlist in the Army at a time when others were already doing everything they could to avoid serving their country. The reader goes through Basic Training with James and his buddies at Fort Gordon, Georgia in February 1964. Two months later after being named "Outstanding Trainee" James reiterates some of his time while at his Advanced Infantry Training. You are there when he signs up for Officer Candidate School and while he waited to be selected. You go through that six-month course with him too beginning in November at Fort Benning, Georgia. Upon graduation James goes to Jump School. From there the book gets even better. James first Permanent Party duty station was at Fort Riley, Kansas with the 1st Infantry Division. Then through his Tour of Duty in Vietnam. James told about an encounter with General William Westmoreland following a mission. The general flew in to review the troops, present medals and then was gone. It was a mere media event. When the general departed, another officer walked the line and took back the medals. After Nam James next assignment took him to Fort Ord in Monterey, California. He became the Officer-in-Charge of the 6th Army Area Drill Sergeant School. It was a great assignment. BUT James was thinking about leaving the Army but he "felt guilty about forsaking my duty, abandoning my obligation to country at a time of war." Unable to find a job that suited him he applied for and was accepted as a member of the Central Intelligence Agency. By September 1971 James was headed back to Southeast Asia "as a case officer in the Lao program, the CIA's largest covert operation." James was involved with several operations before heading stateside in 1973. He spoke openly about them. By January 1975 James was the only American left in Vi Thanh province. At that point he secured himself a "bodyguard." James wrote of the fall of Ban Me Thout, Hue, Da Nang, and Saigon. He took part in the evacuation of the Vietnamese who worked as agents for the CIA. He spoke of the problems encountered onboard the USS Vancouver and the transfer to the USNS Pioneer Contender. James Parker Jr. wrote an incredible account of his military and civilian service to our country and the people of South Vietnam. It is a book well worth reading. I'm glad I had the opportunity to meet the author in person in 1998. AND I'm glad I took the time to read his book. You will be also.