Review of In the Year of the Rabbit

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Debra Morgan
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Re: Review of In the Year of the Rabbit

Post by Debra Morgan »

All of the literature I have read about the Vietnam conflict, both fiction and non-fiction, has been slanted toward either pro- or anti-war sentiment. This book, however, explores the attitude that Vietnam was not a valid conflict even if you aren't anti-war. I appreciate that the author was able to capture this attitude. Thank you for your great review!
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Margaret Johnston 1
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Post by Margaret Johnston 1 »

In the Year of the Rabbit written by Terence A. Harkin
Mentions the Vietnam War. Cameraman Brendan Leary is hurt very badly in the ambush of the Big Buddha Bicycle Race and had to stay in the hospital for observation for a while. When he was released he Went to a Buddha Temple , so he could learn to mediate. I like the fact that the author put in a map. And a quote by Lawrence Peter "Yogi Berra the was When you come to a Fork in the Road, take it. Congrats on being the BOTD
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Aan Granados
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Post by Aan Granados »

I loved Hacksaw Ridge and if it is like that, I am sure to enjoy this too. I love historical fiction as well and a soldier who becomes a monk is a unique story. Thank you for your review!
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Jacques Mwashuma
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Post by Jacques Mwashuma »

War is always a controversial topic, to explore this, even it the context of historical fiction, takes quite the stretch for the imaginary mind. To this theme, a book about what happens in and after a war, cannot sufficiently convey the horror that is war unless one was there to witness it. But I do not fault this brilliant review of what the author has failed to sufficiently convey.
If the heart is clear, it doesn't matter if there's a storm brewing in the sky.

- Bing Xin.
Gift Chidex
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Post by Gift Chidex »

Nice storyline. I believe something would have triggered the protagonist into thinking differently from others. Would definitely read this book to find out more. Nice review, kudos. Congrats in BOTD
Mayuri Kotalawala
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Post by Mayuri Kotalawala »

A cameraman soldier, with a talent for drumming, has lost loved ones including his lover, but has miraculously survived different situations and has a moral objection to the conflict. He is also in a psychological battle, trying to overcome his inner demons. That is certainly a unique combination for one human being and wanting to end that by becoming a Buddhist monk is quite befitting I must say. And even though everything sounded negative, I think the author named it In The Year of the Rabbit, to show us that there was something positive and lucky in there aswell. Thanks for a thought provoking review!
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Abi_rami
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Post by Abi_rami »

A historical fiction set during Vietnam war. But the main thing is the protagonist who wishes to become a monk. This book will surely illustrate why war is unnecessary and the troubles caused by it. The quoted line from the book clearly shows a common man's thoughts about a war. This review is good and it talked about everything related to the book.
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Justine Ocsebio
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Post by Justine Ocsebio »

A historical fiction book set during the Vietnam War sounds interesting, especially when it raises about devastating effects of war. Congrats on botd!
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Vidhi Adhikari
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Post by Vidhi Adhikari »

I've previously read a book on Vietnam War that I thoroughly enjoyed. Hoping that this one lives up to my expectations too. Congratulations on being listed as Book Of The Day.
Leonie Vermaak
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Post by Leonie Vermaak »

I quite intrigued about this book. I'm not sure if I'll read it thought; however the part of the soldier wanting to become a Buddhist monk is very interesting. I can just imagine the spiritual journey that goes along with it. Thanks for a wonderful review.
Pauls_
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Post by Pauls_ »

This historical fiction is a book on war and redemption. I look forward to reading the book. Congratulations on BOTD.
Loniya Chabili Mubanga
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Post by Loniya Chabili Mubanga »

Your review is quite brilliant. I love the premise. I'd definitely like to read more on the protagonist's opinions of the Vietnam war and also the psychological aspect of it all. You're right, that does make this book stand out from other books or movies about war.
Madu Abigail
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Post by Madu Abigail »

I love to read books about the Vietnam war. This historical fiction talks majorly of survival, I hope Brian survives the post-war through his spiritual journey. Congratulations on BOTD.
Paully_
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Post by Paully_ »

I don't fancy books on Wars as they trigger unpleasant memories. I'm still curious know more about the redemption story. Great review and Congratulations on BOTD.
VicEbu09
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Post by VicEbu09 »

A book narrating the consequences of Vietnam war. I'm not a fan of historical fiction so I would pass on this one. Congrats to the book of the day and a satisfactory review.
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