The Vietnam War 1956-1975

Rating:
Summary: Don't Waste Your Money
Review: If one was prone to purchase Cliff Notes in college to avoid reading the whole book, then this book may have been written for you. It lacks detail and covers a purported 19-year history in 96 pages (which is more like 86). I am still reading the book, but am very disappointed in its overall content and depth. It appears to be slanted towards a one-sided view from the author's perspective and opinions. Parts are poorly written and several misspellings. If you are not of the Vietnam generation and want to get a full understanding of the Vietnam era, then I recommend that your money be spent on a more thoroughly written history. However, it is published on quality paper, and the photos and maps are of excellent quality.

Rating:
Summary: A good intro
Review: Though I lived through the Vietnam era, I found following the fighting then very difficult, especially as regards Laos and Cambodia. After reading this book, I feel I now have a clear outline of the military aspects and strategies of the war. (Though there is some discussion of the homefront, that doesn't dominate.) I was wanting to read a dispassionate look at the war in its military aspects, and this book delivered, in my opinion. If you're looking for a brief introduction to the war, I highly recommend this book. The text is easy to follow, and there are many useful maps and photographs.