Vicki E. Hartman’s My Father’s Battle chronicles a warrior’s fight against the nightmares of World War II. In his youth, Ken Rowland joined the army and took part in decisive battles. Returning home at twenty-one, he’d seen a lot of evil on the war front and experienced a darkness that makes one doubt if there can still be any light for humanity. One might think that the return home to his family would be a great relief from the uncertainty and dangers characteristic of war, but his real battle is just beginning. He is beset by nightmares and has a hard time reconciling with his past. With a cheerful and compassionate voice, the author recounts her father’s healing journey, a journey of each of us.

My Father's Battle is a powerful statement about the damage war can cause a soul, a book of protest against the inhumanity of war, but it is also a wonderful message of hope for those who live with war heroes or those who have fought in battles. Vicki E. Hartman’s writing is fluid and appealing, and she has the rare gift of drawing readers in through a voice that is equally powerful and gentle. At the heart of this story is the invitation for everyone to walk the path of courage in facing their past. This book is a potent reminder that we can gain control over our past by facing it courageously and accepting it, and it offers great insights to help those living with people who have been traumatized by their history. Apart from being a compelling tribute to a war hero, this book offers a psychological path that transforms the relationship anyone can have with a war hero into one of compassion, growth, and healing. One of the books I will not hesitate to recommend for the many lessons it offers, for being highly entertaining, and for its insights on the power of self-acceptance and love.