Assessment:
Plot: The author has built a coherent and detailed narrative of the Vietnam War that is easy to follow even for readers unfamiliar with military history. The story has a definite arc and skillfully conveys the author's experience.
Prose: The author's writing style is workmanlike but clear. Although some of the stories are less interesting than others, the short sections provide an appropriately episodic feel. The inclusion of letters effectively varies the narrative voice.
Originality: This book is typical of war stories of the era. And while the author's tales are unique to his experience, readers of Vietnam memoirs will find much of the book familiar.
Character Development: The author does a good job bringing the soldiers and civilians he encounters to life. He also skillfully illustrates the ways he changes as a result of his experiences. Letters, obituaries, and a selection of photos help bring the cast of characters to life.
Date Submitted: July 20, 2017
Personal and moving - A young soldier's view of the war. While the narrative is engaging, the photos are terrific. The author is not judgmental, and I was moved by how eloquently he was able to recall events nearly 50 years ago. His description of a young man at war is timeless. I gather his R&R in Bangkok worked out OK, somewhat akin to turkey with all the trimmings.
… Mr. Haynie’s writing style is very personal and humanizing; it is very compelling. Complementing this personalized style is the fact that his brother accompanied him to Vietnam and that Glyn came from a military family, with a father who had served in both World War II and Vietnam. … At the same time, the style of the writing is coldly realistic. This account revealed more detail to me than I had ever read before about what it was like to be an infantryman in Vietnam. This realism will likely appeal to many readers. …
When I Turned Nineteen: A Vietnam War Memoir was submitted to The Book Designer for the e-Book Cover Design Awards, June 2017 for the Nonfiction category and the winner for the month of June 2017.
Judge: “One of the most successful covers I’ve seen based on an old personal photo. The font choice and layout, as well as the softened photo, make a great impression.”
The Lakeline Oaks Resort Lifestyle Retirement Community in Cedar Park, Texas invited me to Speak at their July 4, 2017 celebration from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM about my book When I Turned Nineteen: A Vietnam War Memoir. I will have a Book Signing after my presentation. The presentation will be held in the Lakeline Oaks Resort community 150 seat theater and the event is open for everyone to attend.
Come to Lakeline Oaks and spend an hour with me before you start your grill!
Directions: https://tinyurl.com/kndq8x5
The Texas Military Forces Historical Foundation invited me to Speak at their July 12, 2017 meeting, located at Camp Mabry, 2200 W 35th St Austin, TX 78703. The topic is: A Vietnam War Memoir. I will have a Book Signing after my presentation.
