My son read "The Things They Carried" this past semester at Vanderbilt University and suggested that I read it. I did and it touched me.
You and I are "of an age." When I graduated from college in '68 my diploma and the change in my draft status from 2S to 1A came within a few days of each other. As I read the chapter of "The Things They Carried" dealing with your consideration of escaping the war by moving to Canada, I understood exactly what you were feeling. From June '68 until the first draft lottery in January I went to the mailbox each day expecting a draft notice. I'd walk to the mailbox, yank the door open, and look for the letter. It felt a bit like playing russian roulette. I played approximately 540 times. Each time, just before opening the door, I thought about what I would do if IT came. Would I go in the army? Would I try to get into a reserve unit? Would I go to Canada?
I always knew that if it came I would serve for many of the same reasons you listed in his book. It was my duty. There was no way I would be 4F and no way I could be a CO. I assured myself that if this had been World War II, and if my country had been attacked and if the free and "civilized" world was fighting for its life against forces of brutality and tyranny I would not have waited for the draft. I would have enlisted. But Vietnam was not WWII. I didn't want to go. But not to accept the call when it came would bring shame on me and my family. All I knew was that the letter had to come. 540 times. I knew it would come and should come. And it would send me to a war that I hated with all my being and from which I was certain I would not return. But it never came. And then in January 1970 the lottery brought me number 256, making me an automatic survivor of the Vietnam era. It was a great relief for a few hours. But relief passed to guilt.
I remember being in a crowded elevator at graduate school the morning after. People were all exchanging numbers. The women in the elevator were quiet. I remember thinking that most were probably glad, at least for one moment, that they were not guys. One of the guys said, "I got 197". I chimed in "256". Someone else say "300" and then someone said "3." The 12 to 15 people in the elevator went silent. I think everyone in it felt a chill. I know I did. I felt it then and I feel it now. There were no words of consolation. Nobody said, "gee that's tough" or anything similar. There was just silence as the elevator stopped to let people off and started up again and as we wondered what await our fellow passenger. We got to the top floor and the last of the riders, myself included, got off, still silent, avoiding eye contact with those around us and looking nowhere in particular.
Many of my friends served. They all came home. But to this day when I see ones who served, I consciously feel like I am less than they are. I let them take a risk that I considered myself lucky for not having to take.
I visit 'the wall' in Washington whenever I am there. I look around and wonder how many of the other 50 somethings and sixty somethings there are veterans and, how many are like me ... less. I reach out and touch the names of those who died. There are not men I knew. But they are men I could have know. They are men who could have been standing next to me at the critical moment. And I feel that same twinge of guilt I felt in the elevator 34 years ago. The war should not have happened. No Americans should have been sent to fight. None should have been hurt. But like hundreds of thousands of others who were spared the experience of Vietnam by dumb luck, I still feel guilty that I let these other men go and fight and die in my place. I expect that it will always be so.
Thank you, Mr. O'Brien for sharing your story, for helping us remember. Thank you for reminding us to appreciate and honor the sacrifice of those who are sent to fight, even in wars that should not be happening. All we can hope is that their lives and those of their families and loved ones be blessed with peace. And that the lives of those who send them needlessly and callously into war, will someday be judged by a higher power and will be found seriously wanting.
david toub
Nashua, NH USA - Thursday, December 23, 2004 at 03:44:41 (GMT)
This should give us more information about his family
somebody
USA - Monday, December 20, 2004 at 21:14:56 (GMT)
I just finished reading In the Lake of the Woods. What can I say? What a marvelous wordsmith. My gut is wrenched and as I write this I have a warm sensation behind my eyes as I hold my lips tightly pressed. I've just read one of the most amazing novels. White heat. And as I leave the novel behind I liken it to a dying star. The impressions and sensations will last for years and futures to view and ponder. And when I revisit this book many, many times, I will again have the same dream, that Kathy is alright and the only steam that rises from her eyes is when she pushes John's child out of her body.
May the possibilities of writer's to sear us with heat, pain, and love, burn, burn, burn.
Joe Firmage <joe_firmage@hotmail.com>
Boise, ID USA - Saturday, December 18, 2004 at 01:54:10 (GMT)
I think Tim O'Brien is brilliant! His writing and experiences together are phenomenal, and his books have had an awesome impact on me and other former students at my school. I am proud to say I have read his writings, and I look forward to more. He really puts himself out in his writing and it helps me get to know him in a way that is hard to explain, but it is there all the same.
Bethany <bethk_369@yahoo.com>
Holdingford, MN USA - Thursday, December 16, 2004 at 05:08:56 (GMT)
I think that the biography on Tim O'Brien had some important facts on his life but lacked information. I think a little more time and effort should go towards finding out more information on him and putting it in his bio. All in all, I got some info out of this site, thanks.
Kevin W. Dixon <allamerican21@sbcglobal.net>
Rosemead, CA USA - Thursday, December 16, 2004 at 04:22:18 (GMT)
I'm a high school English department chair and was #188 in the first draft lottery. We dedicate a whole quarter of grade 11 to The Things They Carried and Going After Cacciato. One third of our student body is of Asian extraction, so the books are a riveting cross-cultural experience. The books are challenging for high school, but we have teachers who can teach the hell out of 'em.
Paul cshane <PaulMcS@AOL.com>
Quincy, MA USA - Wednesday, December 15, 2004 at 19:24:26 (GMT)
I have been researching a author just presented to me by my english teacher. His name was Tim O'Brien. I began Reading his books and learing about his life. His books for a 17 yr old boy have a real impact on you. His exsperience and how his life relates to some of his book really has made me realize the conflict the writers go through and how they can express themselves. Thank you for letting me know how to express feelings in a book.
Joshua Svinkels <Jonny@yahoo.com>
Silverton, or USA - Tuesday, December 14, 2004 at 17:14:39 (GMT)
Tim O'Brien, psychologist in UK sport, talked about tiger woods and david beckham. wish to contact him. Tim O'Brien PhD. anyone know his contact details? please
jerry jackowski
san fran, USA - Tuesday, December 14, 2004 at 10:25:25 (GMT)
For me, "The Things They Carried" has renewed my passion for literature and teaching. I challenged my Freshman Composition class with the novel, and I literally saw the light-bulbs go off in their minds. As a teacher, I am often saddened by the uninterest in reading--especially novels. As a class, we were able to really dig deep and find the humanity in it--the love, sorrow, shame, and redemption. Thank you.
Professor Amy R. Rust <jedirust@charter.net>
Long Beach, CA USA - Friday, December 10, 2004 at 01:13:37 (GMT)
Tim, I am a high school English teacher in Cincinnati. I am a "fresh out of college rookie" that has recently been introduced to your book, The Things They Carried. I am now in the process of guiding my students as they experience your masterpiece. I have never seen 16 year old students so excited to read before. I have become obsessed. All I talk about is your writing. In my free time all I want to do is read more. I want to thank you for this. This novel has made my first several months of teaching exciting and rewarding. I feel sorry for the author of the novel that we chose to read next. The Things They Carried is a tough act to follow. Thank you, Stefanie Rorison
Stefanie Rorison <srorison@foresthills.edu>
Cincinnati, OH USA - Thursday, December 09, 2004 at 15:59:05 (GMT)
Tim,
My 12 grade humanities class has just recently finished reading your book, "The things they carried" I must say I personally found this to be an amazing well written book. Many of my classmates agree, but like many issues your book brought up questions in our classroom leading to several lengthy in depth conversations of the true reasoning behind you writting this book and the way this book is suppose to make you feel when you have finished. This course is taught by two young teachers, one English and one Global Studies, so as you can imagine they both have very different insights to your book. This lead us to todays debate of why many did not feel depressed up this book, but more uplifted as you brought your characters back from the dead. Many students let the classroom today angered, still with these questions dwelling in their minds. I was wondering, if at all possible if you could maybe provide me with some answers that I could enlighten my classmates with.
Thank you,
Toni Holze
ToniSue <Precious_lil_babydoll@hotmail.com>
Putnam Valley , ny USA - Wednesday, December 08, 2004 at 15:22:52 (GMT)
Tim,
I read Things they carried and i thought it was great. it was assingned to my 11th grade english class all the way across the country from all them other kids. keep your imagination rolling so i can keep reading and thats one thing i hate to do.
Brandon Richardson <none>
Monongahela, Pa USA - Wednesday, December 01, 2004 at 19:12:45 (GMT)
I thought the book The Things They Carried was really good. It kept my intrest and it seemed so real. I would love to read more of your books. I bits and pieces of the book to my father and he would start to tell me stories that his dad told him about the Vietnam war. Your book was excellent thank you for sharing it.
Teresa Shanks <pebbles_bambam123@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 17:20:19 (GMT)
I read the book,"The Things They Carried", with my 11th grade english class and i though that the book was sensational. My father also read the book and loved it. Being able to actually hear those war stories was amazing. They were so real. My dad was in Vietnam and he really appreciated your book he has read other and liked them also. Thank you for writing such a fasinating and intreaging book. It was the kind of book that you dont ever want to put down or end. Thanks!
Kimberly Althizer <joey_rubberduck@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, ca USA - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 17:20:08 (GMT)
Your book truly portayed the realities and trueness of war. It gave me every emotion associated with war, the sickness, the beauty, the horror, the happyness, the sadness. It had me carry each and every piece of war. You set the reader right next to the the soldiers, and let the story take them away. I appreciate your honesty, and am thankful you shared your thoughts and feeling to thousands of readers across America. I hope that one day i can write to the depth that you write. Thanks- Owen
Owen Martin <prevail_o@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, Ca USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 05:54:50 (GMT)
Dear Mr. O'Brien,
I found that the book "The Things They Carried" was truly a fascinating read. This book gave me some insight about what was really going on with the American troops in Vietnam. The way you wrote it made it eaiser for me to understand the emtional and physical toll that the soldiers endured day after day. It also talks about how the war affected them after they got back, which I think is very important for people to understand. Even though some parts were fictious you made the reader have a better understanding of what that particular character was feeling. It was very well written.
Laura Sands <dancer_2585@hotmail.com>
Coarsegold, CA USA - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 03:44:26 (GMT)
Dear Mr. O’Brian,
Your Book "The Things They Carried" was an amazing book. It really gave me a glimpse into the world of the men who fought in Vietnam and their lives afterwards. I think that as an American that has no contact with war, I take the freedom that I have for granet. It showed me the great price that many have paid for me to live in freedom. I greatly enjoyed reading each story and feeling as if I were there. The way that used details really made me feel what you were feeling. I could smell the Song Tra-Bong and taste the disgusting tastes. I really enjoyed your book and think that more people should read it. This book made me a lot more thankful to the veterans of war in our country.
Melanie Deto <crossgirl815@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, Ca USA - Sunday, November 28, 2004 at 00:38:18 (GMT)
DEAR TIM O’BRIEN,
IN THE BOOK “THE THINGS THEY CARRIED” I LIKE HOW YOU MADE EVERY DETIAL SOUND SO TRUE. THIS BOOK WAS TRULY A WORK OF FICTION. YOUR IMAGINATION MUST BE OUTSTANDING BECAUSE THE WAY YOU MADE SOME OF THE PEOPLE DIE IN “THE THINGS THEY CARRIED” WAS OUT OF CONTROL IT SOUNDED SO REAL. THREW THE WHOLE BOOK I WAS CONVINCED THAT IT WAS A TRUE STORY. I AM SO GLAD I READ THIS BOOK I HAVE NEVER READ A BOOK SO REAL BUT AT THE SAME TIME SO FAKE. GOOD WORK TIM, BRAVO I HOPE EVERY ONE HAS A CHANCE TO READ SUCH A THRILLING BOOK LIKE “THE THINGS THEY CARRIED”.
Sincerely your little reader in Oakhurst cal,
Michael Anderson wood
michael anderson wood <littlemikewood@hotmail.com>
oakhurst, C.A USA - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 06:17:37 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien, Your book was very enjoyable, yet I know how hard it is to talk about an event such as Vietnam. The Things They Carried has helped me realize what war does to people and has taught me about "story" and "happening" truths. Before I read your work, I thought that a war story was the opposite of what you explained: a happy ending and somewhat boring. Thanks to you, I have learned what it is like to feel war.
My father was also involved in Vietnam and he rarely talks about it. When he happens to come across the subject, he has to leave the room or walk away, with tears in his eyes. Vietnam has effected his life and he cannot change the past. The chemical Agent Orange has caused multiple forms of cancer and he is becoming blind. It is hard for him to do anything because of this defoilant. I hope you were lucky and were able to escape being a victim of this chemical. If you were not so lucky, I feel your pain.
Thank you again for writing such a novel.
Trish Byers <tmb06@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 06:29:23 (GMT)
I think that this book was really good. I would recommend this book to many other people. It was a good experience of the war. I like how it explained the war and to gave you the feeling that you were in it. It made it fun to use you imaginations and thoughts while you read it.
Veronica Gordon <ipickmynose_24_&@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, ca USA - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 19:29:49 (GMT)
The Things They Carried was a great book; I really enjoyed reading it in my English class. It gave me excellent details of the war and of the soldiers that were involved in the war. Even though this book was fiction it made me understand the aspects of the Vietnam War a lot better than I did. This book was one of the best war books that I have ever read it was very inspirational.
Kari Jamison <karijamison_07@hotmail.com>
Coarsegold, CA USA - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 02:32:03 (GMT)
WOW. The Things They Carried had a very strong emotional effect on me. Tim O'Brien is an interresting and great writter. Even knowing the book was a work of fiction, I caught myself wanting to believe that each word had a bit of truth hidden behind it. I have no favorite chapter, each was unique and touched me in a different way. His words on paper, was like a movie playing in my head. Strangley, every emotion portrayed in this book i felt. Some feelings I had never felt before. I respect Tim O'Brien for his honesty and dishonesty through out the book. It expressed many truths about the war, emotions or facts, I as a young mind needed to know. His expressive writtings and the help of my teacher, Mrs.Solomon, had me understanding much of what the book was saying. In short words: I appreciate this book and what it has showed me about war and life in generall.
Alexia Montagnoli <lexiz_sexi@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 03:03:53 (GMT)
I just finished reading the book, THe things they carried, and i wanted to take the oppurtunity to let you know how great of a book it was to me. I enjoyed how it talked about the things that the soldiers carried physically, emotionally, and metophorically. This book seemed true to me. I kept telling myself as i was reading it that something this propelling cant be fiction. This book helped me, to a certain degree, understand what truely went on during the vietnam war.
Jonathan Blea <jblea9@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 00:33:09 (GMT)
I, as well as many other 11th grade students around the world, have been blessed with the opportunity to read The Things They Carried. I have never been a person to like war stories and I‘ve never really understood the Vietnam War, however; this book has led me to see, that no matter how bad it was, some people never gave up hope. Even though the lines defining fact and fiction where severely blurred it didn’t seem to effect the emotions of the book. Although O’Brien had stated that The Things They Carried was a work of fiction, I found myself believing it was true, which I could understand why some people, not including myself, may have been angry about this book. Although the book was very enjoyable, there were a few details in “Style” that I didn’t feel met the standards set by the other chapters. I, as a reader, was left with some unanswered questions like; why was the girl dancing, why were the soldiers mocking her, and did Azar dance right after Dobbins threatened him and if not what happened to him? Also, Tim O’Brien was very repetitive about a man he may or may not have killed, which made parts of the book unexciting to read. Conversely, in “How to tell a true war story”, I felt his repetitiveness about truth enhanced the feelings which he wanted the reader to feel, that I felt was necessary in order to understand not only the book but also the war.
Tiffany Fitzpatrick <i_liiike_veggies@hotmail.com>
Coarsegold, CA USA - Sunday, November 21, 2004 at 23:37:08 (GMT)
I want to thank the loyal teachers in Oakhurst and Coursegold who teach O'Brien every year and who manage each time to open up many young minds to his great work. I think you do great work too! Thank you.
The Webmaster
My English 11 class has been reading this book called The Things They Carried. When I first got this book I was like "Great, another stupid book about the war". Then I actually started to read it and it really helped me see how hard the war was on the soldiers physically and mentally. I mean yes I guess not the full affect because I wasn’t there but I kind of know how the feel because I saw someone almost die in front of me. I really liked the book and I recommend it to anyone and everyone who wants to know what the war was like.
Cori LeMire <Crzygrl4u2no@yahoo.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Sunday, November 21, 2004 at 16:47:13 (GMT)
I will start by saying this book was not what I expected it to be. It exceeded my expectations. At points it was hard to keep the characters in order, but then I realized that was not what really matted. The point the book The Things They Carried was more about informing the audience of how a Vietnam Viet felt while in Vietnam. Parts of the book made me feel very emotional which I am sure that is the soldiers felt, very emotional, during and after the war. I enjoyed this book tremendously, and recommend it to anyone that is up for a life changing book.
Nicole Wood <nikki_15944@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst , C.A USA - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 21:29:32 (GMT)
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Things They Carried. It was a really fantastic book and the content of it made you want to read more. Even though this was a work of fiction I still read it like it was true and the story made me want to believe it was true. It was an excellent display of the Vietnam War and showed you a side of war that you may not have seen or heard of.
Craig Norman <boobgoggles@gotmail.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 05:51:36 (GMT)
I loved reading The Things They Carried. I especially loved "The Lives Of The Dead." The whole time we were reading it, it kept me interested and it is hard to do that. It was cool how Tim was still in love with Linda after so very long of not being able to see her, just the thought that he would be able to see her again someday and that he sees her when he dreams. I thought it was a well written book and that Tim should make another one. I would read it. I liked how the book made me want to keep reading, and if I hadn’t read it in class I wouldn’t have gotten a lot of it.
Karri C. <takingbacksundayroxmysoxoff@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 05:25:44 (GMT)
If i had to read this book by myself I would'nt have understood it but since we read it in class, it made it easier for me to understand. I love the way he makes you use your imagination and creative thinking. He also made it WAY believable. I WOULD LOVE TO PASS IT ON TO MY FAMMILY. HEY MRS.SOLOMON!
Dusty Lahr <ocsupertones_rule@yahoo.com>
coarsegold , CA USA - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 05:11:07 (GMT)
After reading The Things They Carried I really didn’t get the point the book was trying to put across. I didn’t like how the book made it so realistic that you would have to question whether it was fiction, so it basically was a little bit too blurred. Also the skipping around in the chapters made it difficult to really get into the book, and there were so many characters that I couldn’t keep them strait. Personally I didn’t care for the book very much.
Chelsea Withrow <chelseaw010@yahoo.com>
Coarsegold, CA USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 03:36:44 (GMT)
I read the book The Things They Carried and it made me feel like I was actually there at war along with them. I felt that the book was written very well, and with strong emotions. In the chapter “On the Rainy River” I thought the old man in that chapter was really neat, because I know a man just like that and he is really close to me. I thought that was really cool. Another really cool thing is, I really have trouble finishing books once I start reading them but not this one. This book was really interesting to me.
Bailey Duvall <crazycoolchick_52@yahoo.com>
Ahwahnee, Ca USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 02:49:46 (GMT)
This book is definitely one of my favorites! I love the way it was written and narrated. I’m thinking about reading it again. My favorite chapter would have to be "The Man I Killed" The Things They Carried helped me understand what people go through during war. Tim O’Brien is an excellent writer! -Jaime
Jaime Coles <jaymi_lea@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, Ca USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 01:35:30 (GMT)
The Things They Carried was a very enjoyable book. It helped me understand how soldiers felt and acted in war. I never realized how little things could help you get through tough times. For example, pantyhose, pictures, letters, and memories of loved ones. It’s funny to think that something little can keep you going through the worst of times. I think that most people wanted the author to write the book with fiction or non fiction in mind, but that is what makes this novel good. You don’t know what is real and what is not and you have to guess. Good Book!!
Jordan Franck <moosepf@hotmail.com>
Coarsegold, Ca USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 00:59:35 (GMT)
The Things They Carried was an excellent book and I really enjoyed this book, the vivid details of war and the emotion of Tim O’Brien’s comrades. This book really explains the aspects of war and what it is about even though it is fiction. Your story made me realize there is more to war than fighting and guns. Hope more kids read this book and see how inspirational it is.
Dustin Westfall <dwestfall03e@yahoo.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 00:21:57 (GMT)
While reading this book, I was in a state of mind that made me feel happy and sad at the same time. It was a really emotional book, all of the sadness and the deaths of Tim O’Brien’s friends. Even though this book is fictional it felt real, you can imagine yourself in his place. I really enjoyed this book and all of the emotions that ran though me while reading it. I hope others will read this book and enjoy all of the stories like I have.
Courtney Anderson <candersonyhs2003@yahoo.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 00:07:29 (GMT)
I thouroughly enjoyed the book. I love the way it was set up. I felt like I was in the head of Tim O'Brien, the writeng made me feel it was real and even though it drove me crazy to realize it wasn't. I'm a hawk but i've always strived to learn both sides and understand what ibeleive by knowing the beleifs of others. though i disagreed with the statement that going to war was a cowardly thing in any sense of the word it made think. Thanks for driving me up the wall!
Anthony Dauro <ajdauro@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 23:24:13 (GMT)
I just finished reading The Things They Carried for my Junior English class and I just wanted to say it was a good book in most aspects. It was kind of confusing for me to understand happening-truth and story-truth, but I understand now. I really liked, or I was touched the most by the “The Lives of the Dead.” It was very sad that Tim O’Brien had to deal or feel the pain of friends dieing from such a young age. I also liked the story “Sweetheart of The Song Tra Bong.” I liked this story because it was interesting and different. It was crazy how Fossie brought over his girlfriend to Vietnam and then his girlfriend got involved, leaves Fossie and the last time you see her she has human tongues around her neck. It was kind of a weird story, but it kept me interested.
Dori Jenkins <kaebj_52@hotmail.com>
Oakhurst, CA USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 20:43:40 (GMT)
I am in the middle of reading The Things They Carried and i was wondering if everything in this book was true or if some of it was exagerated? A reply would be greatly appreciated.
Ryan <saints_wrestler_119@yahoo.com>
Lorain, OH USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 17:06:59 (GMT)
i am still only a junior in high school, and i was, in a way, forced to read a book by an american author, but right now at this moment i am thankful i picked "the things they carried." i haven't even finished the book yet. in fact i am only one third done, but already i am grateful to have experienced what tim o'brien has written. maybe its the book, but at this moment i have realized something about life that i cant quite explain. i feel stronger, but in a way i feel strange. i dont want to sound awkward, but parts, if not the whole book just gives me chills. i am from bosnia, and my parents and i were forced to flee during the mid 90's because of that war, so i realize the stress and horror. i just want to thank o'brien for his heroism and most of all for his contribution to the world with this book. i am now a fan.
kenan bisic <kenan_bisic@yahoo.com>
westminster, co USA - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 04:51:11 (GMT)
I am simple English major and I mean that in every since. For my ethical criticism class we are reading your novel The Things They Carried. Ironically, in another class we have been asked to prepare letters for a soldier as part of a Christmas present. Our responsiblity is to prepare a few cards. I am finding my words frail after having read "Speaking of Courage" I want to tell this man I am thankful, but God only knows if he wants to be there. I want to tell him I love his service and sacrafice but that seems so empty...If you could reflect for a moment what would have been the one thing you would have liked to hear around the holidays. Perhaps something that would have motivated. What would you say to this soldier...
Matthew Felshaw <fel98002@byui.edu>
rexburg, ID USA - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 05:23:30 (GMT)
I read The Things They Carried for a research paper, as it was the only story in my Literature book I deemed worthy of my attention. My instructor told me that it was about Vietnam, and that the author was in the war, which usually brings about a great story in itself. I have just finished reading the story and it was great. Very few stories catch my attention like this one has. Great details were used, and I felt as if I was there with the soldiers.
Doug Smithmyer <thedeclineofmook@hotmail.com>
Cresson, PA USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 02:55:20 (GMT)
i am a senior at Walsh Jesuit Highschool, my colloquium english class has had the wonderful privallge to read the things they carried. i read the whole thing the first night i got the assignment. i could not take my eyes away from it. i reread it the next day, and am reading it for a third time. the book makes something compeltely foreign somethign i could never comprehend into soemthing i can grasp, i am suddenlly understanding but not really, i am understanding that there is nothing to understand that waht happened does not matter, the truth dosent matter, its the story. i loved it i can not tell you enough how much this book has ment to me. thank you for you honesty, and for still telling the story.
Nicholas Lenos <aglenos@aol.com>
canton, oh USA - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 00:29:51 (GMT)
I understand that Tim wrote a piece for Time magazine that was only to be published should John Kerry win the election. As this did not happen, none of us has seen the article. If anyone knows anything about this or can pass along a copy of it I'd really appreciate a copy. Thank you! Juniper
Juniper Broody <juniperbroody@yahoo.com>
USA - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 20:29:12 (GMT)
Dear Mr. O' Brien:
We have several things in common. I grew up in Small Town Minnesota (the Granite Capitol of the World not the Turkey Capitol but I did work at an Armour Chicken Plant for a bit), attended Macalester College and studied with Roger Blakely and Alvin Greenberg... majored in Creative Writing. Heard you speak in the Weyerhauser Chapel in '79. I have never attended a class reunion at Macalester (or any other for that matter!). I too have a sense of nostalgia that I do not want ruined by reality! Have published some poetry internationally as well as some short horror fiction. Have a co-written horror novel due out in a few months. Gave birth to a son in July of 2002 and am considered an older parent by many--- so can relate to your feelings of awe towards your miracle child. Have a good friend who did three tours in the Nam. So you see I can relate to you on a variety of levels, from childhood in the Midwest, to Macalester (then I lose you to the War but really gain you via your fiction. or faction...) and then the baby... If you can possibly find a moment to write we can compare our memories of O'Garas, Green Mill Pizza, The Highland Theater, Blakely and babies.... is there anything more? Oh yeah... you are a Prince among Writers.
JESSICA LAVINE past tense
JESSICA JAMES (nom di plume)
Jessica Lavine-Shields <Sprynet06@sprynet.com>
West Haven, CT USA - Friday, November 12, 2004 at 05:00:09 (GMT)
I am hoping someone can help me locate a copy of the documentary that O'Brien appears in on the BBC. If anyone is able to help me out please email me.
Chad Forrest <chadforrest@msn.com>
Rochester, NY USA - Wednesday, November 10, 2004 at 21:35:41 (GMT)
I'm not sure if this is acting as sort of a contact page, but some people seem to be using it as that. Mr. O'Brien our English teacher saw you when you spoke in Madison and told us the story of how she had asked you to speak for our class. She told us that you had said you would be up for that sort of thing, except you had to be somewhere else the next day. She also went on to say that you told her she should e-mail you except she couldn't find your contact information anywhere. This seems to be the closest we can get. If you could write me back or send me contact information it would be greatly appreciated!
Kari Capener <bobobumper@hotmail.com>
DeForest, WI USA - Wednesday, November 10, 2004 at 19:57:41 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien I am a Senior English major at DePauw University. I have read almost everything you have written, including The Things They Carried several times. Your work has so inspired me that when my Senior Seminar professor asked us to base our Senior writing around a particular author I jumped at the chance to show the rest of my University your incredible mastery of the "Creative Non-Fiction" genre. Thank you for your excellent work.
Matthew Wilkinson <mwilkinson@depauw.edu>
Greencastle, IN USA - Monday, November 08, 2004 at 08:06:43 (GMT)
"Those fucking flies."
Hey Tim,
What a real look at what really happend in Vietnam. I first wrote this to tell you how well written "In the Lake of the Woods," was. It is truly like reading a Non-Fiction Fiction because of the real characters portrayed. Our class viewed a documentary on Bernard o. Simpson and the problem with PTSD and it was truly hard to watch. It was great how you could incorporate all of these real life citizens into the book, (Lt. Calley, Bernard,)
I also wrote to ask if your character Tony Carbo is really Anthony Carbonetti, who works for Rudy Giuliani? Thanks a lot for the Non-Fiction Fiction, and keep on writing.
Ian Schoenike <Daisyveda@core.com>
Oconomowoc, WI USA - Friday, November 05, 2004 at 14:04:16 (GMT)
Hi,
I don't know if this is a place to actually contact Tim O'Brien, but I have a student's paper that I would like to send to him. This student is interested in creative writing, and he wrote an alternative hypothesis for In the Lake of the Woods. I need to be able to send it as an attachment.
Thanks,
Kristy Riemen
English Teacher, Lockport Township High School
Kristy Riemen <kriemen@lths.org>
Lockport, IL USA - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 18:47:33 (GMT)
Dear Mr. O'Brien,
I very recently read your novel "The Things They Carried" for my Protest Literature class at St. Mary's College of Maryland. I want to thank you for writing this book. I believe that you have done justice to the experiences of your fellow veterans, and to the memories of those who died in Vietnam. I believe that it is incredibly important for veterans to take on the difficult task of translating their experiences to the people back home, and you do this with real skill. I wish I could list for you the sections/passages/lines in this book that I found to be the most powerful, but there are simply too many.
I wish that more people had read The Things They Carried before the current war in Iraq had started. I do not wish to use this as a political message board, but I want very much to tell you that your book is as relevant today as it ever was.
Thank you. Really. Thank you so much.
Kaitlin <kbgriener@smcm.edu>
MD USA - Tuesday, November 02, 2004 at 18:26:53 (GMT)
Mr O'Brien, I have just finished reading The Things They Carried for a college English course I am currently taking. I just wanted to let you know how deeply it touched me. By the end of the first story I was crying because you put into words what I have never been able to say myself for the last 30 years. It was like something had been lifted from my heart that I was never able to verbalize. I just wish I had discoverd your books a long time ago. I see your in Indiana on Nov 8 and maybe I can try to make it down to hear you speak. If not hopefully you will be speaking some place closer to were I live. Thank you
Melvin D <melvind@tds.net>
Blanchardville, WI USA - Sunday, October 31, 2004 at 08:50:05 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien,
I am currently teaching your novel, The Things They Carried, at Salesianum School. My students and I are really enjoying the novel and will like to send a letter to you with a few questions they have about the text. How can we do that? Is this the best way or should we mail something to a particular address?
Thank you for your time.
Ms. McMillan
Amanda McMillan <amcmilla@Salesianum.org>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, October 29, 2004 at 12:30:21 (GMT)
Hello! I am reading The Things They Carried for my English 102 class and I am so impressed with your writing! I look forward to doing my final paper on your stories. Thank you! Also, please add my school to your list of schools reading that book Harper Community College www.harpercollege.edu Thanks, Marnina
Marnina Patrick <leilani4565@aol.com>
Arlington Hts., IL USA - Thursday, October 28, 2004 at 23:31:34 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien and all, I've read all your books and rank them higher than most anything else I've written. I also written about you some on this website that I'd recommend: www.coyotewriters.com. Keep up the good work, Tim.
Will you be reading in NY anytime soon?
Casey <cwiley@siena.edu>
Albany, NY USA - Thursday, October 28, 2004 at 02:06:09 (GMT)
Dear Mr O`Brien
I am a student from Poland,I study American Literature at the English Department at the University in Łódż in Poland.Presently,I`m writing my MA Thesis based on your works,its topic is: Vietnam and Imagination. I got fascinated with your writing after I read your collection of short stories. The short stories made incredible impression on me. Now I`m in the course of doing research for my MA Thesis.The fact is that I need any information concerning the topic of my MA Thesis.I would be really very grateful if anyone who visits this site could help me with my research.
Ewa <ewaflower@o2.pl>
Brzeziny, Poland - Wednesday, October 27, 2004 at 21:58:15 (GMT)
I am doing an essay on "The Things They Carried". I noticed that many of the wounds on characters are "star shaped". In my training, I was taught that "star shaped" or "stellate" wounds indicate very close/immediate range on gunshot victims, and that they are usually indicators of suicide. Is the "star shaped" wound symbolic of self-death, or a reference to the american flag only?
BTW..I love your book.
Thanks,
Tanna
Tanna welch <tannawelch@hotmail.com>
Everett, WA USA - Wednesday, October 27, 2004 at 01:10:28 (GMT)
I am doing a research paper on Tim O'Brien for my jounor english in high school. I found this site very usefull in my persute to learn more about Mr. O'Brien. But I have some questions if any knows of away to get in touch with Mr. O'Brien please let me know thank you
reply to bigdaveford@charter.net
David Ford <bigdaveford@charter.net>
Tullahoma, Tn USA - Tuesday, October 26, 2004 at 15:33:24 (GMT)
I'm looking for any photographs that anyone may have of a soldier named Mark White who was in the 5/46th with Tim. pictures or stories or anything you have would be greatly appreciated
Rachel <rpbianchi@yahoo.com>
USA - Monday, October 25, 2004 at 20:21:32 (GMT)
I am taking Dr. H Bruce Franklin's Vietnam Graduate Class at Rutgers Newark. I have just finished reading your book, "In the Lake Of The Woods". I have been so moved by not only what you have written, but how you have written it. It reminds me of EAP, and the other dark romantics of early days of American Literature. The use of stream of consciousness and the suble changes w/ your use of repetition are truly exceptional. You really help the reader to capture the war that rages on inside of so many of our soldiers from not just Vietnam but those in Iraq. Thank you for your story. Sometimes the greatest works of history are maintained through the greatest works of fiction. They are history that cannot be rewritten. Samantha Montani-Siegelheim
Samantha <smontani240@yahoo.com>
Bedminster, NJ USA - Monday, October 25, 2004 at 03:18:25 (GMT)
I just finished reading "A Letter to My Son". This is something all fathers of all ages should read. My son is only a month older than Timmy and the spirit of this story has really hit me hard. While I am not the same age as Tim O'Brien, I do remember that my father worked so much that he was rarely able to do things so that would my brothers and I would know who he is. He is still working today, at age 65, and while I know my father, I don't really know my father.
Tim has put into words what many of us do not realize until it is too late - time with family right now.
I have found a way so that my son can grow up with me in his life every hour of every day and this story has fueled me even more. I cannot allow what happened to me and my father happen to me and my son.
Mr O'Brien, I am sure Timmy will know his father and what he stands for even if this letter is the only work of yours that he reads.
Fred Adelman <adelman@rcn.com>
Hellertown, PA USA - Monday, October 25, 2004 at 00:11:23 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien-
I am a high school English teacher who recently finished a unit teaching your novel The Things They Carried. Yesterday, a student brought in a copy of your letter to your son and was very upset because in your book you mentioned a daughter, Kathleen. Could you please explain the "truth" about your family so that I can get back to my student? Thank You!
Mary R <maryr1999@yahoo.com>
Boston, MA USA - Thursday, October 21, 2004 at 22:31:24 (GMT)
I teach in two correctional facilities; mostly males. IF I DIE IN A COMBAT ZONE is the one book that reaches the inner-most parts of these beings. I find so much good to teach about. My wish would be for my students to meet Mr. O'Brien. For some there would be profound changes. Yes, I'm that convinced of the power of his writing.
Susan D. Taylor, MS Ed. <staylor2@maine.rr.com>
Portland, ME USA - Thursday, October 21, 2004 at 17:57:04 (GMT)
Hi Tim, I am looking to find a copy of the letter you wrote to your son on-line. Is there such a copy?
I am a native of Worthington,MN. My maiden name was Eaton. I knew of you, and since stumbling across your letter to your son in the LIFE mag. of the St. Paul Pioneer press I have begun reading In The Lake Of The Woods. I'm enjoying it alot and am looking forward to reading more. As another aside I think you have relatives that my husband John and I have met at Advent Methodist Church in Eagan.
Thank you!
sue
sue dyke <suedijk@msn.com>
Eagan, MN USA - Wednesday, October 20, 2004 at 12:10:05 (GMT)
I just got through reading the letter you wrote to your son. I have to say that it was one of the moving pieces I have read in a very long time. I too am a new father. I have a beautiful daughter who was born almost exactly 1 month after your son. Although I am 32 years of age, and not considered to be an 'older' father, I can relate very much to what you have written. With all the illnesses around, and all the accidents that happen, I too sometimes fear that my daugter will not know me when she gets older. You writing has inspired me to write a similar, yet not quite as eloquent, letter to my little girl. Being a son of older parents my self, I can honestly tell you that one day, you son will look at this letter that you wrote, and will consider it to be his most prized posession. The love that you feel for you son, will be returned! May you be as proud of your son, as his will be of you one day.
Best of luck to you and your family!
Mitch <cycledthat@aol.com>
NY USA - Wednesday, October 20, 2004 at 00:47:51 (GMT)
Hi, I am A 17 year old senior in highschool. I read "The Things They Carried" last year in my AP english class and I absolutely adored it. We read it before we read " Catcher in The Rye" and I can honostly say I enjoyed your novel more than it. It was so touching, especially because of the war in Iraq.I have recommended your book to anyone and everyone who will listen to all my complaments about it. I just wanted you to know that evryone us, rebellion,awful, and crazy teenagers love your book. I just want all adults to know that our generation is not as stupid or demented as they think we are.
Thank you so much for your time and patience,I can't wait to read more of your books.
cassy N.
Cassy Noriega <Oddermom2@aol.com>
Tucson, AZ USA - Tuesday, October 19, 2004 at 20:52:30 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien, my boss would like your e-mail address to communicate directly with you. Would you forward me your personal address? If you have any questions, please contact me directly at 847-888-7886. Thank you so much for your attention to this matter.
Best regard
michelle
Michelle <michelle@gabriel-incorporated.com>
elgin, il USA - Monday, October 18, 2004 at 21:27:54 (GMT)
Tim,
I met you briefly at Brown University in 1999. You subsequently provided a blurb I used in my book, "Touched by the Dragon, later reissued in trade paperback as "A Story for All Americans." I have just completed a book of short-story fiction that I would like to send you. If you can find the time to read it and provide another blurb if you like it, I would be much appreciative. If interested, please email me your current mailing address. Have a wonderful day, and thanks for "July, July;" another terric read.
Regards,
Frank Grzyb
Frank Grzyb <gribbfrank@aol.com>
Portsmouth, RI USA - Sunday, October 17, 2004 at 21:24:41 (GMT)
Better late than never. I just finished " The Things They Carried" You have a new fan. I absolutely loved it and am now anxious to start on your other books. Thanks for the insight and" The Truth " Sincerely L>R>
Lucille Rose <Tweebs6@aol.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Sunday, October 17, 2004 at 16:41:23 (GMT)
We were all so touched by the tremendous gift you are leaving your son...and to all of us. One day as an expectant father, Timmy will read your letter again and in his heart will "remember" the day you both composed those loving words. Thank you for the gift you are to each other!
Pamela Miller
Kansas City, MO USA - Saturday, October 16, 2004 at 02:33:31 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien-
I think the letter you wrote to your son is one of the most touching, poignant expressions of the glimse our children give us at divine and unconditional love I have ever read. I never understood how, if there was a God, he could love us unconditionally with all of the terrible things people do to each other. I understood it fully when I had my first child.
I am an older father like you, and am convinced had you been younger when you experienced this, you probably would not have been able to offer course corrections with the gentleness and wisdom that you have at this point in your life. You are in a perfect position to teach him how special his life is, becuase you better understand how special it is. In my humble opinion, these lessons will remain long after he would have forgotten that you taught him to go to his left out in the driveway.
You didn't wait too long. You waited until exactly the right time.
Not Important <NoPyrite@aol.com>
Los Angeles, Ca. USA - Friday, October 15, 2004 at 16:47:35 (GMT)
I just finished reading "A letter to my son." It is one of the most touching things I've ever read. Our newspaper "Daily Press" for two Sunday's now has had a "Life" section & that is where I found your letter. I would like to send this to my daughter & her hubby in N.J. I have not found it online. They have no children yet (42 & 44) but keep saying they want children, but with going to school in NY City & then the towers coming down it has been a set back for them. Where can I find the letter online? Thanks
Brownie Woodell <Tara-14@cox.net>
Hampton, VA USA - Friday, October 15, 2004 at 16:42:11 (GMT)
I Just wanted to say that I read your letter. The letter you wrote to your son. That has got to be one of the most touching letters ever. I have a 13 month old and I felt all of what you were saying. I am only 31 and I felt that I didn't have enough time. My mother had me at 22. But know hearing about your lack of time makes me kinda appreciate mine more. I know that your son will appreciate that letter along with everyting you have ever written. You should keep a journal for him of all the things you want him to remember and all the things you need to guide him on for when you might not be around. I love writing to my baby girl. They grow so fast. Life is flying by. Anyway thank you for touching me. My eyes are watery as I write this. Your son is beautiful.
a friend.
touched <mmmpeachss@yahoo.com>
nj USA - Wednesday, October 13, 2004 at 17:33:51 (GMT)
I am trying to gain support for a base monument inscription at the Three Servicemen statue.
Simply titled as it is below:
Brothers
These three (and others indeed)
Who fought until they were no more
Stripped beyond their human core;
In the jungles of Vietnam
Where each of them have gone-
To their final resting place
Worry free of each man's race...
c/2004 Connie M Ingle
I have already submitted the poem as a request, to the National Park Service and VVMF's Jan C Scruggs for approval, but I am needing support from area communities of Vietnam Veterans who are moved to act on "Brothers" behalf.
If interested, please email national_mall@nps.gov
(attention: Fran P Maniella/nps hdqtrs and Terry Carlstrom/
nps regional director.
You may contact Jan C Scruggs at: (202)-393-0090/phone or
by fax number: (202)-393-0029
I do hope that you will let this message be heard or read in/on your web site/page. If any questions, you may email me at: those3ndc@yahoo.com
Sincerely,
Ms Connie M Ingle
Ms. Connie M Ingle <those3ndc@yahoo.com>
Charlotte, NC USA - Friday, October 08, 2004 at 21:40:57 (GMT)
I am a student at York County Community College in Wells, ME. Your short story "The Letters They Carried" is required reading for Intro to Literature instructed by Dr. Jill Piggott. I have elected to do one of my essays on you and this particular story. After reading this story and a moderate amount of your biography I marvel at your writing skills and your power of seperation as a narrator of powerfully emotional material. I have a desire to write someday myself. I hope to be able to pattern myself to some degree after you and your mentor, Hemingway. Thank you so much for your real life insight on war and how many "grunts" or men and women deal with this overwhelming stress. I look forward to reading the rest of your material. Thanks again Brian Hartnett
Brian Hartnett <brvhrt@metrocast.net>
Sanford, ME USA - Friday, October 08, 2004 at 18:22:35 (GMT)
I am a senior in high school and have read "The Things They Carried" and Going After Cacciato". I truly enjoyed both of these stories. I am interested in the time period of th Vietnam War and these stories strengthen my interest in the time. Tim is an excelent author and it is my hopes one day to beable to meet him in person. Thanks
shelbi johnson <american_child4eva@hotmail.com>
venice, fl USA - Friday, October 08, 2004 at 17:19:02 (GMT)
I have just read the short story "The Things They Carried". It is an excellent story. I am too young to remember Vietnam, but did serve in the military during the frist gulf war. The situation that Lientenant Cross finds himself in with Martha can be applied to alot of situations outside of war. It reminded me of a time I had while serving in the military even during peace time.
Looking forward to reading the book.
Mike Fontenot
Mike Fontenot <mikefontenot@cox-internet.com>
Natchitoches, la USA - Tuesday, October 05, 2004 at 23:28:57 (GMT)
I am reading "The Things They Carried," and it is amazing of how things are still the same from when you were in the military to now. My husband has retired from the military and we have not adjusted to him being back. He is not the same and reasons is, I don't know and he has not given me the chance of knowing. He keeps things to himself and refuse to share with me. Things like that makes it hard to develop. The book was outstanding and I am going to reread it tonight after class.
Keep up the good work and congradulations on you B-Day.
Valerie Funchess <valfunc@aol.com>
North Chicago, IL USA - Tuesday, October 05, 2004 at 17:48:29 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien:
I have read Things They Carried, If I Die.. and In the Lake of the Woods and thoroughly enjoyed all three. I teach KAP Senior English and cover Things with my class each year. This year I may add In the Lake... as well.I am a Marine veteran who was lucky enough not to have been called like you or those serving today have been. Your novels really can be read with the heart and the stomach which is why most of my students enjoy them so much.They don't always like the way they perceive you as playing with truth at first (in spite of appearances, most teens are not comfortable with ambiguity)but once we discuss emotional truth in fiction, which your novels are an excellent avenue for, most understand. ...Woods... was painfully lyrical. I doubt I will ever again read a "mystery" where whodunnit is not important. Thank you for the gift of your stories in the pit of our stomachs! I look forward to hearig you in Akron, OH on the 19th, as do several of my students who will be attending.
Paul Finucan <pfinuc@yahoo.com>
Lakewood, OH USA - Monday, October 04, 2004 at 16:10:02 (GMT)
I am reading "The Things They Carried" right now by the suggestion of my wife. This book is hard to read, but feel that I "need" to read it. Very DIRECT book, and Mr. O'Brien if indeed you did serve in the Vietnam War, God Bless You sir, thank you for your service to our country.
Robert Gillander <rbgillander@juno.com>
Tallahassee, FL USA - Friday, October 01, 2004 at 15:59:27 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien; thank you for your lecture at Furman. I requuired my cadets in ROTC to attend; your work/lecture provided valuable class discussion--with Iraq on the horizion; your work gives our future offcicers many things to consider.
Again, thanks.
CPT Russell C. Stewart <russell.stewart@furman.edu>
Greenville, SC USA - Friday, October 01, 2004 at 15:55:50 (GMT)
Happy Birthday, Tim!! Let me know if you're going to be back in Minnesota anytime in the near future. I'd love to bring a group of my students from the Vietnam War class down to hear you. Give my best to your Mom!!
Steve Potts <steve19561974@yahoo.com>
Hibbing, MN USA - Friday, October 01, 2004 at 15:15:54 (GMT)
I'm doing a project on you, Mr.O'Brien, for school...and something that i have to answer about you what were some of your problems or challenges and how might they have been important to your writing. i was wondering if you could answer that for me. thank you
faith <adaisybabe@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, September 30, 2004 at 21:09:54 (GMT)
I just read "The Things They Carried" and it was a very interesting and entertaining read. It was great to get a different veiw point of the war then in all the special forces books i've been reading. Man were those "greenies" (are special forces) made out to be a wierd bunch, but like i said it was great to finally read from a grunt's eye view of the war.
John Lievois
Bayfield, WI USA - Wednesday, September 29, 2004 at 14:54:12 (GMT)
I HAVE THE HONOR OF REVIEWING YOUR "THE THINGS THEY CARRIED" IN MY BOOK GROUP THIS WEEK. IF I'M ACTUALLY WRITING TO YOU, FIRST, THANK YOU FOR YOUR WORK. DURING THE REVIEW, OR PRIOR, IT IS MY JOB TO FIND OUT AS MUCH ABOUT YOU AS POSSIBLE AND I CAN'T FIND OUT IF YOU ARE MARRIED, IF YOU HAVE A FAMILY, IF YOU DO INDEED HAVE A DAUGHTER. I UNDERSTAND THE TECHNIQUE YOU USED IN YOUR WORK, THOUGHT IT WAS MASTERFUL, BUT REALLY WOULD LIKE TO UNDERSTAND MORE. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR ANY RESPONSE. SINCERELY, JUDY M.
JUDY MARSHALL <LILLYPILLY@JUNO.COM>
USA - Wednesday, September 29, 2004 at 01:29:17 (GMT)
Tim,
I am a senior at Bayfield public high and i have just finished reading "The Things They Carried" and i must say that the book was awesome!! i am not a big fan of reading but this is one book that i just was into. There is just one question though why all the confusion? i mean was it real or what? If you could just answer that would be great my teacher would love to know.
Matt DeFoe <matt_defoe@yahoo.com>
Bayfield, Wi USA - Tuesday, September 28, 2004 at 17:03:37 (GMT)
Sir, I read the original version of "Speaking of Courage" when I was in 10th, as it was in my literature text book. I recently read the version from The Things They Carried and I would like to do a comparative paper on it. However, I am having difficulty finding the original version again. Will you please tell me where I can locate it?
Alexandria Schroeder <schroederay@vcu.edu>
Richmond, VA USA - Tuesday, September 28, 2004 at 00:48:49 (GMT)
I realize that you are speaking at Furman University on 9/30/04 at 7:00pm in Greenville, SC. Please accept our invitation to attend the Class of 1969 Dunbarton College of Holy Cross (Washington, DC) 35th reunion at Kiawah Island, SC 9/30/04 through 10/4/04. All of your travel, lodging and food expenses will be paid. Your book, July July, is one of 3 books to be discussed this weekend.
Sally Roof <sroofhoff@cox.net>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Monday, September 27, 2004 at 06:27:53 (GMT)
Hi Mr. O'Brien, I just wanted to tell you how much I have enjoyed your books. I read The Things They Carried four years ago in high school and just finished If I Die in A Combat Zone.... I'm a senior enroole din college and read the latter for the Vietnam War class I'm taking. I just started reading Going After Cacciato and am looking forward to reading your other works. THanks so much!
Callie W. <evilfaery_82@yahoo.com>
NJ USA - Monday, September 20, 2004 at 23:33:46 (GMT)
Read 'Things They Carry" sometime ago and wanted to write and belatedly say thanks. While I may miss some of the symbolism and story on a higher plain, the mud and mosquitoes are too familiar. I spent a year 70-71 just south of Tra Bong at Ha Thanh or Son Ha as an infantry advisor with the Hre Montagnard. We worked the fishook and horseshoe area of the Song Tra Khuc river vice the Tra Bong. We teamed mostly with the 1/52 from the 198th off LZ Stinson but had the 46th Inf around on occasion. Your capture of the place and times is as good as I've read. A long time ago but with stories, just yesterday. Again, thanks.
Jim Meyer USA/ret <memjfm1@hotmail.com>
VA USA - Saturday, September 18, 2004 at 16:31:45 (GMT)
hi tim. you are so talented and so awesome. please, for my sake, finish the book you are working on!!! AND, next time you come to boston...wear your jeans and a Red sox hat. last time you looked like an imposter. suit and generic ball cap??? I mentioned it to you in line! My friend and I would love to buy you a beer after. we are neither stalkers or killers. Cant wait! Cindy
cindy grant <grantc@neco.edu>
boston, ma USA - Thursday, September 16, 2004 at 18:29:07 (GMT)
The senior English classes at The Griffin School in Austin are reading The Things They Carried. It's provoking much thought and discussion!
Rebekah Jongewaard
Austin, TX USA - Wednesday, September 15, 2004 at 03:21:00 (GMT)
Hey Mr. O'Brien. I recently read The Things They Carried for school and thoroughly enjoyed it. we are now studying the topic of Vietnam and relating it to the war in Iraq. For these discussions, our teacher gave us the assignment of reading John Kerry's address to the House Foreign Relations Comittee in 1971. I wanted to know what your views were on John Kerry and the statements he made in his speech. Are his words truthful? it would be greately appreciated if you wrote back. Thanks
Diptesh <Dipteshsoni@aol.com>
Mystic, CT USA - Sunday, September 12, 2004 at 18:40:40 (GMT)
Tim-
I'm a Vet.(173rd Airborne)and a high school English teacher. I've enjoyed your works and used selections
to help my students more understand war and after war.
Thanks
"Rudy" <ruderunner_2004@yahoo.com>
Bakersfield, Ca USA - Friday, September 10, 2004 at 21:30:30 (GMT)
I, too, am currently studying 'The Things They Carried' and I found it to be compelling and thought-provoking. The underlying messages are subtely placed and leave you wondering whereas in most war stories an ultimate conclusion is made and you feel somewhat relieved. Through this book I have come to realise that war, as well as life, is not like that! Thank you for widening my world view!
Ariel Richardson <wicked_chic15@hotmail.com>
Melbourne, Vic Australia - Monday, September 06, 2004 at 01:54:16 (GMT)
I am currently studying 'The things They Carried' at school and I have found the book compelling. I am curious, though, why you (Tim) have not put too much detail into what you actually witnessed yourself. I would like to know if the characters in the book are actually you in different situations. The book is excellent, though.
Nicole Psaila <hayden_forever@hotmail.com>
Australia - Monday, September 06, 2004 at 01:46:46 (GMT)
Mr. O'Brien, I currently a creative writing student who was involved in the invasion of Iraq last year. I have written two short stories on the subject. If you would care to read them I would be greatly flattered.
Tim
Tim Apel <tgapel@cox.net>
Pensacola, FL USA - Wednesday, September 01, 2004 at 00:13:06 (GMT)
I think too much campaign time has been spent on swift boats. On the other hand, the country has not spent enough time discussing lessons learned from Vietnam. There's a quote about history repeating itself and not learning from the lessons of the past and maybe that's where we are today
in Iraq ... these so-called leaders who weren't involved before don't understand the war that they're creating, though that's a weak argument given that they're supposedly men of intellect. The fact is, as we know, if they had to fight the war, there would be no war. At any rate, there were undoubtedly individual and large-scale atrocities committed in Vietnam that so many Americans including those who participated, are in denial about or just outright lying. I wasn't an eyewitness to acts themselves, but the evidence is huge and I was eyewitness to the attitudes of American servicemen towards the value of a Vietnamese life, regardless of whether they were North or South. Vietnamese were considered barely human for whatever reason ... "gooks", "slant-eyes", etc and were objects of despise and disgust. Until Americans can get to the heart of the source of their collective arrogance, we will be despised and disgusted by the world at large.
William Hollowell <czanne@hotmail.com>
virginia beach, va USA - Sunday, August 29, 2004 at 13:42:29 (GMT)
I would really like to know what you think about the current Swiftboat controversy....
C. Rishoi <rishoi@cablespeed.com>
- Wednesday, August 25, 2004 at 00:49:48 (GMT)
I just finished reading "the things they carried" and the part that struck me was the part about Tim's girl friend Linda that died of a brain tumor. He said that he used to fall asleep so that he could dream, and in his dreams he would see her. I found it weird that someone else did exactly what I have done and currently do. I didn't realize that someone else did that just like I do. Anyone else like that by any chance?
Allie <phantomshark1@aol.com>
Limerick, PA USA - Tuesday, August 24, 2004 at 16:26:45 (GMT)
To Tim, my WHS classmate destined for greatness even then; especially to your mom, my caring & influential 5th grade teacher at Central Elementary; and to all your family--my deepest sympathies.
Carole Towne Seaton <doug.carole6@att.net>
Tucson, AZ USA - Friday, August 20, 2004 at 20:26:49 (GMT)
Always looking on the bookstore shelf to see if there is a Tim O'Brien book I hadn't read yet... last week I found July, July. Of course, having attended Macalester at the same time you were there, I had to dig out my yearbook to see if I recognized any characters in the book! But I soon realized the only people I knew in your class were in the theatre department. I dated your roommate Ken Elling(something) - he broke my heart. I didn't see him in any of the characters either. Wonderful book.
Nothing could compare to the moving tribute of "The Things They Carried", however. Many of us who have lost good friends and family tried to grasp the realities of Viet Nam but without that actual experience, we just cannot.
Your book is one of the first ones I have read on the subject that somehow tied those of left behind with those that served.
Thank you for sharing your gift with all of us.
With family in Austin we are there several times a year - I'm hoping sometime my schedule corresponds with one of your speaking engagements.
Caroll "Heiden" Yule
Caroll Heiden Yule <cyule@mscomm.com>
spring Valley, CA USA - Tuesday, August 03, 2004 at 22:27:03 (GMT)
After reading five of his books, Tim O'brien has quickly become my favorite author. Tomcat in Love may have been the most entertaining book that I have ever read.
James Malewitz <booerns2005@yahoo.com>
Jackson , MI USA - Monday, July 05, 2004 at 11:43:30 (EDT)
I'm reading The Things They Carried for the 2nd time now. My lit class last year discussed it for about 6weeks, we just couldn't put it down. I can't wait for your lecture at Berry this fall!
Ashley Smith <arsmith@students.berry.edu>
Sugar Hill, GA USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 10:35:57 (EDT)
Any chance you will be doing an appearance in the Chicago area anytime soon? Please keep us posted. Our book club is reading The Things They Carried. A great work!
Denise <deniselouthain@sbcglobal.net>
Chicago, il USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 07:54:32 (EDT)
Yeah, well what of Jiggs Caudron's THE C-3/1 PAPERS, re: the 11th LIB, Vietnam 1968-69. Right as it was.
M. Caudron <john@jacaudron.com>
Wrightwood, CA USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 15:07:10 (EDT)
Mr O"Brien, I read on one of your websites that Les Ramirez and you shared Vietnam experiences. I knew Les during that time period; he never served in the military and never went to Vietnam. Can you clarify?
T.Durant <Durant_51@hotmail.com>
Charleston, SC USA - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 09:46:12 (EDT)
The coming week will be the last of a six week summer course on the works of Tim O'Brien I have been attending at a small liberal arts college south of Rochester, NY. Just wanted to say how glad I am that I took the class-your books are incredibly inspirational and have reminded me of why I love to write, dream, love, and observe-all the good stuff in this world. Thank you.
Amy Gembala <amg14@geneseo.edu>
Rochester, NY USA - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 18:50:27 (EDT)
Another thing! can u write me back? i would die of happiness, well thats a bit extreme....but id be happy as hell for sure
Dunya Wren <russianblonde1@sbcglobal.net>
Hughland , Ca USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 04:10:30 (EDT)
Hey Mr. O'Brien. I am reading "The Things They Carried" and my God, it kicks ass (can I say that?) I'm only 17, but i totally appreciate your work. Thank you for producing something that awesome, I laughed, I cried...haha, that book rocks
Dunya Wren <russianblonde1@sbcglobal.net>
Highland, CA USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 04:08:20 (EDT)
Mr. O'Brien, i did a report on your book, "If I Die In A Combat Zone," and it was one of the best books i have ever read. That one and ,"The Things They Carried." I always reccomend both to everyone.
Steve McGee <NakedBoards87@aol.com>
Quincy, MA USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 15:31:14 (EDT)
Hey! I really enjoyed your book, The things they carried. Mary ann was really scary. Thank you.
Ali Picardi <littletyke3@yahoo.com>
Cheshire, CT USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 13:56:46 (EDT)
Mr. O'Brien, my english class just read The Things They Carried and as a final project I wrote a letter to you, and my teacher would like me to send it, is there any way that you could possibly give me an address so that I might be able to do so? thank you very much...I hope I can send the letter, it has a lot more to say than this does
Jennie Searcy <steele_viper@hotmail.com>
olympia, wa USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 00:10:28 (EDT)
Dear Mr.O"Brien. Our book group just finished your book "The Things They Carried". We all loved it. We got into a discussion about whether there were religious overtones in the character of Jimmy Cross. Some thought he was supposed to represent Jesus Christ (ie intitals are JC) but others couldn't see it. Can you enlighten us. Thank you.
Joan Mandell <jgmmsw@socal.rr.com>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 16:27:40 (EDT)
Terre Haute, Indiana is reading "The Things They Carried" this year. Thought you might like to add it to your list. Currently reading July, July, which is especially fun because I am a Macalester College alum (proud to be from the same school as Tim O'Brien) and there seems to be a little fiction/reality overlap, as always. Thank you to Tim O'Brien for continuing to write and enrich our lives!
Margie <maschrad@indiana.edu>
Bloomington, IN USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 12:59:37 (EDT)
The Dalton School would like to speak with Mr. O'Brien about the possibility of a two day symposium, mostly likely Jan 24-5, '05, on Vietnam to Iraq that would involve him and possibly two other participants. Funding is available. We are excited about the possibility. Many thanks, DS
Damian Sokol <damian_sokol@dalton.org>
NY, NY USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 12:43:47 (EDT)
'the things they carried' was the first assigned reading in my 11th grade american literature class that i actually finished. i could not put it down. now, 10 years later i still recommend tim o'brien's books to my friends. he is absolutely a brilliant writer.
bria <bneuen4@yahoo.com>
clovis, ca USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 03:23:26 (EDT)
Any news on the Cacciato movie? Is that project still on?
Liz <lucycon@hotmail.com>
Boston, MA USA - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 01:25:45 (EDT)
Hi. I was on here cos I thought it was Dr. Tim O'Brien the psychologist in england who works with premier league football teams
Eugene Darton
USA - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 13:15:56 (EDT)
Mr. O'Brien,
I just finished reading "The Things They Carried" for my reading and writing class at Guilford College, and I was, and still are, very impressed. I read it in 3 days, as I could not put it down. Thanks for such a humanistic view of a dark period of American military history.
Terry Stuart <tstuart@guilford.edu>
Greensboro, NC USA - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 22:05:42 (EDT)
"The Things They Carried" should be required reading in every highschool in the country. I live in the Bay Area in California and in San Francisco the kids have no clue about what happened in those years. I was born in '52 and had a couple of friends who didn't make it home. Thanks for putting something this great into words!
John Pendleton <johnpend@webfactory-online.com>
Oakland, CA USA - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 17:48:49 (EDT)
Hey im doing an auto biogrophy on you. i would like more info on you. I dont know much about you and it would be great if i had some help from the person I was going to do my report on. thank you.
Ryan <Bum_4_me@hotmail.com>
Clearlake, CA USA - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 15:26:09 (EDT)
Mr. O'Brien,
Well, it seems everyone elses comments say it all. I've read all your books and consider you one of the best authors of the past 50 years. I'm working on a screenplay to Going After Cacciato, trying everyday to figure out ways not to ruin the story. If I ever finish it, I hope you might take a look at it. Keep the stories coming.
David R. D'Andrea <davidrocco44@yahoo.com>
Royersford, PA USA - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 10:45:02 (EDT)
Dear Mr. O'Brien
I am currently a senior at Masuk High School, Monroe, Ct. My Contemporary Lit. class has just finished reading "The Things They Carried". Your book has been the subject of many class discussions. Recently, my teacher proposed the idea of writing you and asking you a few of our more heated questions.
Since I could not locate an e-mail address for you, I am sending this to your guest book. I would greatly appreciate it if you would let me know how I could contact you.
Thank you in advance for reading this request.
Sincerely
Matthew Miscione
Matthew Miscione <Superboy67@aol.com>
Monroe, CT USA - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 21:13:35 (EDT)
I have read your story "Things They Carried." It hit home for me, i am prior military and my husband is still in.He is with 1/502 B Company, infantry at Fort Campbell, Ky.He went to war and i felt the stress so well.He told me of his life over there and i saw all he had to say with in this story.Every solider in your story is a real person in my husbands platoon.I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to reading many more of your works.
Earline Bower <bowersgirl1@yahoo.com>
clarksville, TN USA - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 12:22:56 (EDT)
Great book... Can't seam to find anything else to say.
Anton Andersson <antonandersson16@hotmail.com>
Kopenhagen, Denmark - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 12:11:03 (EDT)
My son just read your book, "THE THINGS THEY CARRIED" and we discussed the Vietnam War in the car. Talk also went over into the atrocities in this war. I went home and read his copy, great book, couldn't put it down. Loved the quote, "You can tell a true war story if it embarrasses you...." so much parallel to today It was great to relate to my son that the brave thing to do in the Vietnam War time was to oppose the war. Thank you
Elise Jones <jonese@dennis.capemayschools.com>
Dennisville, NJ USA - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 10:51:10 (EDT)
how can i email or get in touch with tim o'brien?
mel <melrapper@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 20:58:36 (EDT)
Reading The Things They Carried was like drinking a bottle of wine; I did it very slowly, enjoying every moment even though it took me places that made me cry. It was heartbreaking. It touched me in places that I didn't really want to be touched. And yet I turned around and read it again. And again. Thank you for having the courage to write so deeply about who we all are. It inspires me to do little things to make our world better. I imagined myself at war. I imagined my sons in combat. And then I forced myself to imagine the day (and it will come!) when we don't settle arguments by killing eachother. Maybe when women have more power, or the sea changes again, or when this generation of children grows up, but someday we will realize "that the other person is us."
With deep respect,
Nicole
Nicole Washburn <lalucena@arnet.com.ar>
Córdoba, Argentina - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 16:06:40 (EDT)
I am an English teacher at Portage High School in Portage, Indiana where our 10th grade students read your book for English classes. Each year we invite authors to speak to our students about their work. Please send an email about how to contact Mr. O'Brien for such a visit. Cheers!
Patrick Moody <pmoody@portage.k12.in.us>
Portage, IN USA - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 15:11:51 (EDT)
Mr. O`Brien thanks for your books and short stories. I collect every things and books about Vietnam. Thanks. I want to meet you and took and took about that time.
Martin Fallon <martin_fallon@interia.pl>
Poland - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 15:41:58 (EDT)
I am doing a research paper on tim o'brian and i'm having some problems finding information on him. If anyone has a good site please e-mail it to me. Thank You
Nicky <Nickygriffith196@hotmail.com>
Cameron, WI USA - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 15:03:47 (EDT)
Hey. I am currently doing a research project on Tim O'Brien and his work but I am currently in a stump. I need to find out what Twentieth-century literary movement O'Brien is in. If anyone knows where I can get info on this subject, please e-mail me.
Jordan Reaves <Jordan_reaves@hotmail.com>
Fort Mill, SC USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 17:54:56 (EDT)
iam a sophomre at alexander high school and iam doing a project over speaking of courage i think it was pretty good o dont think he explained it well enougt so i could understand and take it in what he said...
amy <babygirlz166@aol.com>
d-ville, ga USA - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 20:42:36 (EDT)
Hi. At the moment I am studying 'The Things They Carried' in my English class. The more I read it, the more I like it, and the more i realise how well written it is, so congratulations on a fine book!
Esther
Australia - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 07:54:51 (EDT)
An open comment--> In the chapter "In the Field" of The Things They Carried, is the young man searching for his girlfriend's picture, named? Studying the book in high school we were taught that this young man is in fact Tim O'Brien, but I can't find proof of it. If anyone knows email me at amoyer@ups.edu
Alastair <amoyer@ups.edu>
Tacoma, WA USA - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 22:12:43 (EDT)
Mr. O'Brien, I loved the book "The things they carried". My parents are both refugees and it made me think about something that really does mean a lot to me. I attend Stuyvesant High School, and our short stories class reads your book. Please consider paying stuyvesant a visit.
Jack Nguy
Jack <Jack@Nospam.JackNguy.com>
New York, NY USA - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 22:32:05 (EDT)
i am in 7th grade and i just read "the things they carried"and iloved it!;-) ethgtdryeta3467
noah <xmadscientist1x@yahoo.com>
cincinati, oh USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 09:59:53 (EDT)
I am in the 7th grade and just read, The Things They Carried-great book. At any rate, do you have an address that I may send a letter to?
Thank you.
greg <gbc20@att.net>
cheshire, ct USA - Monday, April 26, 2004 at 17:47:57 (EDT)
Tim: I am 17 years old and have just finished reading your book, "The Things They Carried". I read this book with my father by my side. You see, my dad was in Vietnam. He was a seabee. He was over there for two tours, he was in Khe Sahn, Chu lia, and Da Nang. As I read the story I would ask my father what some of the words ment such as Clay more mines, bouncing betty's, and K rations and C rations. I never realy under stood my dad, and why he acts they way he does. I try to get close to him and understand him, but sometimes its just so hard to do. After reading this book I can honestly say we have grown closer together. We are not as distant from each other as we use to be. Understanding him and learning what he went though has been something I have wanted to do all my life. Your book helped us become closer, thank you, Please write back.
Kim Frost <kgoodnpure@hotmail.com>
wading river, ny USA - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 12:55:05 (EDT)
Dear Mr. O'Brien, I have read segments of "The Things They Carried" for my Creative Writing class and I have to agree with the majority of people posting their comments; it is a great piece of work. The right-in-the-action imagery and the great insight into the characters minds is extraordinary. One thing I dislike is the repetition, I know it has a purpose to emphasize but for example the reiteration of the fact that Ted Lavender was killed becomes for-the-lack-of-a-better-word annoying. Other than that, keep on the good work.
Mr.Milo <themrinconspicuous@yahoo.com>
Washington, DC USA - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 20:05:22 (EDT)
We are reading Tim O'Brien's "The Man I Killed" in my Literature class at Auburn University. I love the story so much that I have decided to do my final paper on the story. Thanks for the inspiration.
Carrie <garmocj@auburn.edu>
Auburn, AL USA - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 16:23:51 (EDT)
I just want to say it - when i was reading `The thing`s they was carried` i was there, i feel that all things, and that was imazing !! This book is great !! Thank You !!
Mathew W. <papullus@wp.pl>
Bydgoszcz, Poland - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 23:06:45 (EDT)
I just read The Things they Carried and i had a question for you: What happened to Rat Kiley after he left Vietnam? I loved the book
Dustin McGowen <MhsPunk@aol.com>
Moore, OK USA - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 22:05:22 (EDT)
Hi - my students wrote you letters regarding THe Things They Carried. Where can they send them? Can i have your address?
Sarita Viloria <cielrouge@hotmail.com>
Brockport, ny USA - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 10:56:17 (EDT)
Hello, I'm a sophomore in high school and our english teacher decided that we would read The Things They Carried. I just want you to know that I absolutely love your book and I couldn't put it down. Thank you for writing it.
A. B. <motoally@hotmail.com>
Amherst, NH USA - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 22:56:34 (EDT)
I am an university student actually in the island of Puerto Rico. I read your story Things They Carried as part of my curriculum in the Literature class. I just wanted to say that the story really makes you think, not only the physical equipment a soldier carries, but all the weight of the war a soldier carries in his mind and heart. It is a shame that some people think of soldiers as murderers and protest against them.
Thank you for your writings.
Ruth D. Torres <rdtorrespr@yahoo.com>
Juana Diaz, PR USA - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 14:13:28 (EDT)
I would just like to say I loved your novel "In the Lake of the Woods" You don't find many books where the author leaves the ending so open and so much for the reader to decide...I enjoyed reading it the first, second and third time. This is the first book of yours I have read and I hope to continue reading your works.
SRM
NY USA - Friday, April 09, 2004 at 23:53:06 (EDT)
Dear, Mr O' Brien im a student at Thomas Jefferson High School. I love your books your a good author.
Juan Silva <utklyrical@yahoo.com>
San Antonio, Tx USA - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 11:07:35 (EDT)
Dear Tim O' Brien Im a student at Jefferson High School here in San Antonio Tx, I really love ur books especially If I Die IN A COMBAT ZONE.Today im writing a reaserch on you, Well i just want to say hi and hope u write back to me. your friend juan.
Juan Silva <utklyrical@yahoo.com>
San Antonio, Tx USA - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 10:54:56 (EDT)
O'Brien-I have just finished reading "The Things They Carried" for the second time and I was wondering if there was more to it then just about the war and the connections of love (for Linda)and death. There were many times in the novel when I was under the impression that you were trying to show that everyone may experience the same incedent but have it mean something different to each person involoved. As if everyone had their own reality, and in that sense would it be possible for each person to mold their own reality?
You also said that you would sleep to bring Linda to life; so would that make it your own reality?
I don't know if this even makes much sense, but if you (or anyone who has an answer to any of these questions) could get back to me, because that would be great. Thank you.
Teresa W <wagnudt@yahoo.com>
CA USA - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 03:16:06 (EDT)
Mr. O' Brien i just want to thank you for writing "The things they carried" im reading it in my senior year of high school my teacher loves your books. And well i just finished your book tonight and i wanted to let you know that im really sorry about what happened to "linda" that story trully touched my heart and made me cry i never thought i would cry to something i ever read in a book. But your story really touched my heart. Im most definately one of the lucky people that has had the Honor to read one of your Books may God bless you and bring you peace and many Blessings...
Ismael Rios <Ismael_1@sbcglobal.net>
Daly City, Ca USA - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 01:30:46 (EDT)
I am trying to find a copy of On the Rainy River. Can anyone give me a source?
Tina Sherrill-Range <tsherrill@spirit-lake.k12.ia.us>
Spirit Lake, IA USA - Monday, April 05, 2004 at 14:21:03 (EDT)
add Roosevelt High school to your list! Senior English AP students, especially...since we're the only ones reading it! IT'S AWESOME... :-D
Adam Nagel <nagelbagel2004@hotmail.com>
San Antonio, TX USA - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 19:52:37 (EDT)
Dear Mr. O'Brien
First and foremost I want to thank you for your writing, for sharing with us your stories, experiences. I am a 26- year-old wife, mother and college student. I am currently enrolled in a Literacy class at Saint Mary of the Woods College in Indiana. "The Things They Carried" is a requirement. I do not do much reading anymore my love is the Movies however I am not a naive person who believes the war scenes depicted on screen can not even come close to describing how it really was, I simply like movies for their entertainment value. Your book however, I can't wait to read another of your books. I am just finishing up your book and I can say that History in High School is simply black and white factual information it does not even closely give you a sense of what the Wars specifically Vietnam was all about. I was hooked simply after reading the first two pages. Your book has opened my eyes. I was able to get lost on those humps, feel the weight of the things they carried, and feel the wetness of the monsoons, the smell and disgust of the "shit field" but most of all the importance to the soldiers of the "little", "trivial" things, "The things they carried" (a bible, a picture, toothpaste, bug spray) the things everyone else takes for granted. It is so difficult to describe in words how I feel when reading your book. To sum it up I would have to say your book, your words gets one as close to "getting" the Vietnam war other than actually experiencing it.(notice I didn't use the word understand, I am not sure anyone will understand the War not even most of the soldiers, like in your book when your daughter asked you why you were there in the first place, you replied, "I don't know, because I had to be.") Lastly I want to thank you again for your writing. I never felt so many different emotions in one book, sadness, madness, disgust, anger, compassion, sympathy, respect, loyalty, dignity, confusion, and lonliness.
Sherry Edington <ase1995@netzero.net>
New Goshen , In USA - Thursday, April 01, 2004 at 14:27:44 (EST)
Dear Mr. O'Brien
First and foremost I want to thank you for your writing, for sharing with us your stories, experiences. I am a 16 year old wife, mother and college student. I am currently enrolled in a Literacy class at Saint Mary of the Woods College in Indiana. "The Things They Carried" is a requirement. I do not do much reading anymore my love is the Movies however I am not a naive person who believes the war scence depicted on screen can not even come close to describing how it really was, I simply like movies for their entertainment value. Your book however, I can't wait to read another of your books. I am just finishing up your book and I can say that History in High School is simply black and white factual information it does not even closely give you a sense of what the Wars specifically Vietnam was all about. I was hooked simply after reading the first two pages. Your book has opened my eyes. I was able to get lost on those humps, feel the weight of the things they carried, and feel the wetness of the monsoons, the smell and disgust of the "shit field" but most of all the importance to the soldiers of the "little", "rivial" things, "The things they carried" (a bible, a picture, toothpaste, bug spray) the things everyone else takes for granted. It is so difficult to describe in words how I feel when reading your book. To sum it up I would have to say your book, your words gets one as close to "getting" the Vietnam war other than actually experiencing it.(notice I didn't use the word understand, I am not sure anyone will understand the War not even most of the soldiers, like in your book when your daughter asked you why you were there in the first place, you replied, "I don't know, becasue I had to be.") Lastly I want to thank you again for your writing. I never felt so many different emotions in one book, sadness, madness, disgust, anger, compassion, sympathy, respect, loyalty, dignity, confusion, lonliness.
Sherry Edington <ase1995@netzero.net>
New Goshen , In USA - Thursday, April 01, 2004 at 14:23:29 (EST)
My english teacher loves your books. The first time I took her class in '01 she mentioned it...I later dropped her course and made mistake after mistake after that, and now in '04 she still says the same thing about you.
She offers us extra points if we email you and you email us back. I didn't think I was going to do it because she offered it both the first time I took her class (I didn't do it) and at the begining of this semester, but now with the big debate between Bush and Kerry I was wondering your views considering Kerry is a war vet like you.
I am standing behind Bush (despite all critism) and I think we should not change presidents in this particular moment. I often feel Mr. Kerry constantly says one thing and later turns and says another. I understand you may want to stand behind a fellow war vet but I don't think John Kerry is the right man. We need to be supportive of this war...I have not been to a war and would never want to. My grandfater,Benito Juarez, fought in WWII and he never speaks of the war with any of his daughters just his sons-in-laws. I think we are helping the people of Iraq and when they see are country falling to pieces over this issue they must be terrified to think that we are helping them. As long as we don't reinestate the draft, all should be fine. I know men and women are losing their lives,but you should expect that when you sign up for the army or marines. Thats what makes these few men and women so great.
Those are just a few of my thoughts on this war and I hope to hear yours and how this war will affect your vote for president.
Thank you,
Kari Ann
Kari Ann Ortiz <kortiz@stx.rr.com>
Laredo, Tx USA - Wednesday, March 31, 2004 at 19:03:37 (EST)
Thank you. I've added a link to yours on my site:
Aftermath of war coping with ptsd too
http://groups.msn.com/AftermathofwarcopingwithPTSDtoo
This is a safe place for all the women that love a wounded veteran suffering from ptsd. We come together in the aftermath of war to share information, support and friendship. May you find peace through understanding. May you never again feel as if you are all alone.
Chris <cwoolno1@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, March 30, 2004 at 05:35:33 (EST)
My advanced writing workshop class just read 'the things they carried' and it took my breath away. for so many years, teachers have been telling me that shakespeare and dickens were the great writers and that THEY should be the writers that excite us.
this book has let me see writing and experiencing as an excitement that actually CAN be expressed in words that reach the soul.
thank you mr. o'brien. you have all of my respect and more.
-sarah
Sarah <grwlgrl07@earthlink.net>
Londonderry, NH USA - Monday, March 29, 2004 at 19:20:39 (EST)
Dear Tim O'Brien.
I have to write a paper about you and why you wrote "Speaking of Courage", but I really can't find anything about it, so I thought you may could help me, PLEASE!!!!!!! I love how you write and the story, but to do my best I could use your help!
Your manu
manu <manubear15@yahoo.com>
Hamburg, Germany - Monday, March 29, 2004 at 16:02:42 (EST)
dear timmy,
i,m so glad to visit your homepage because i want to say that i relly enjoied reading your book"the things i carried".
i read it in the english-lesson and found it very interessting. i got a lot of information about the vietnam war. thank you. greetings from germany
Juliane
U-Town, Gemany - Friday, March 19, 2004 at 06:10:04 (EST)
Dear Tim
we read your book "the things they carried" in our englisch lesson and I found it very interessting. By reading the book I got a new impressions about the vietnam war.
Anna
Usingen, germany - Friday, March 19, 2004 at 06:09:42 (EST)
Dear, Tim O´Brian,we read your book "The Thigs they carried" in our english lesson and I loved it!!!
Berit
Usingen, Germany - Friday, March 19, 2004 at 06:06:43 (EST)
Please let me know if Tim will be in the Boston area I am a 61 year old full time college student doing a paper on his story "The Things They Carried." I've just become a huge fan not only because I like the way he writes but because I can relate. I see PTSD in this story......its in my own. (The fantasies as a way of coping, the losing of something not knowing what, how you are changed forever, not telling your story because it will all come gushing out.) If he is in this area maybe he could speak at our college... Middlesex Community College in Bedford Massachusetts. Its not Harvard, were just your average run of the mill students but we love to learn.
And to the career Marine who wrote just before me...you sound like the ME ME ME self-righteous generation. Thank God you don't represent the majority of the young people your age. You should be grateful there are men who speak the truth from their hearts about war. I only hope you live to grow-up and become a more open minded person.
Skye
Thanks, Skye Gladstone
Skye Gladstone <tutugoodfern@yahoo.com>
Woburn, MA USA - Wednesday, March 17, 2004 at 11:42:51 (EST)
I'm listening to 'The Things They Carried' now. As a 26 year career Marine my observation is that the dialogue is contrived--19 year old grunts don't speak like that.Sounds more like dialogue from a Hollywood script. writer.Vietnam vets (baby boomers) are America's most self-absorbed generation--just look at Kerry. I wish they would just shut up and get on with life.
Wm Babbington
Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, March 16, 2004 at 20:04:38 (EST)
I'm listening to 'The Things They Carried' now. As a 26 year career Marine my observation is that the dialogue is contrived--19 year old grunts donn't speak like that.Sounds more like dialogue from a Hollywood script. writer.Vietnam vets (baby boomers) are America's most self-absorbed generation--just look at Kerry. I wish they would just shut up and get on with life.
Wm Babbington
Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, March 16, 2004 at 20:04:06 (EST)
Hi Tim,
I'm doing a report on what you think the qualities of an American is. I'm in 11th grade and i really liked the short story Ambush. That story helped me out a lot. Thanks so much
Megan Hatfield <Feeling august @aol.com>
Chino Hills, CA USA - Wednesday, March 10, 2004 at 00:20:49 (EST)
hmmm i'm reading if i die on a combat zone box me up & ship me home....so far its a GrEaT book.....i'm taking a history class of the Vietnam War...
paintitblack01 <paintitblack01@yahoo.com>
ca USA - Tuesday, March 09, 2004 at 19:35:37 (EST)
Tim, as a combat vet who has borne the brunt of our nations actions in Vietnam, bearing freedoms sword, and felt the embarrassment and scorn heaped upon the warriors from that conflict, I salute you for helping to return an insight to what that war really was, and the need for discernment in solving our problems, and the need for peace and world-wide brotherhood. I invite those who pass here to visit my "Vietnam Picture Tour, from the lens and poet’s pen of a combat infantryman... http://pzzzz.tripod.com/namtour.html Take a walk in "the park" with the 1st Air Cavalry on combat patrol, that in reality will give you the sweet and sour taste of "the Nam" on your tongue, leave the pungent smell of "the Nam" acrid in your nostrils, and embed textures of "the Nam" in your brain as though you walked beside me in combat.
Gary Jacobson <pgriz@hotmail.com>
Realm of Idaho, USA - Tuesday, March 09, 2004 at 12:25:28 (EST)
The Things They Carried was great. I would like to get a signed copy for someone who loved this book. Please advise.
Thank you. Ann W.
Ann Weeks <aweeks@holyname.net>
Worcester, MA USA - Tuesday, March 02, 2004 at 08:51:45 (EST)
It was nice to surf in your web page. I have read "If I die In a Combat Zone..." and also the short story published through Playboy magazine - "On The Rainy River" and I have liked both a lot.
If I find some spare time will try other novels from Mr. O´Brien because he is a fine writer.
Fernando A.G. Levy <sehentony@ig.com.br>
Rio de Janeiro , RJ Brazil - Sunday, February 29, 2004 at 18:37:47 (EST)
hi~my name is Aileen and i am a high school student. i just reed the book "if y die in a combat zone, box me up and ship me home" this book was so great!! and i really like it,it was a true story that just touched my heart. i hope Mr. O'Brien keeps writing great books like the one i just read.
Aileen Trueba <yvette_linda15@hotmail.com>
Denton , Tx USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 15:53:50 (EST)
IT WAS LIKE BEING IN THE NAM AGAIN. I SERVED THERE FROM 1966 TO 1968. USMC CHU LAI
SEMPER FI
ROGER L. SHOURDS
SSGT USMC 1965-1972
ROGER L SHOURDS <RSHOURDS@AOL.COM>
POLSON, MT USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 at 02:53:30 (EST)
Tim, I'm a fellow vet (A Co. 1st/20th, 11th LIB, Americal, August '68 to Aug '69 and a reader of your excellent books since picking up Going After Cacciato shortly after it was published. Keep up the good work. While visiting my daughter in Chicago this past Fall I learned of your talk at the Library and brought my copy of The Things They Carried for you to sign. Unfortunately, I was recovering from surgery and couldn't stick around long enough to meet you. You had a great turnout...Chicagoans seem to be big fans. Maybe I'll have another opportunity if you're in my area.
John Moran.
John Moran <johnmoran135@hotmail.com>
USA - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 at 11:04:35 (EST)
I thought the book was pretty interesting.I liked reading about all the war stuff and all that went on.
Alyssa Branton <Don't Have One>
Fairfield, OHIO USA - Monday, February 23, 2004 at 07:56:50 (EST)
First, I would like to apologize, because you have definitely been asked this a thousand times, but, being an avid fan of yours, I have to ask. How much of The Things They Carried actually happened (or seemed to happen)? You spend a chapter speaking about truth, but leave the reader in serious doubt what those chapters meant. Was there actually a Linda? Rat Kiley? Curt Lemon? Norman Bowker? I'd probably know if I read If I Die in a Combat Zone, but I have not, as I am new to your works. Anyway, The Things They Carried was really an amazing book. Really inspiring.
Max Kaplan <iowainterloper@hotmail.com>
Bala Cynwyd, PA USA - Sunday, February 22, 2004 at 12:46:23 (EST)
I am a junior in highschool, and we had an assignment to read any book by an American author. I chose "The Things They Carried" because I like reading about the Vietnam War. I honestly couldn't put it down! I have never read such a great book based on real events. I finished it within hours of checking it out. The next day I went to the library and checked out "Goin After Cacciato" It also was a FANTASTIC book. Tim O'Brien is truly a genius, and a great story teller.
Shylah Elliott <shylahnelliott@yahoo.com>
Sarasota, Fl USA - Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at 16:14:05 (EST)
I just wanted o say that your writing is great and i hope your butt gets better
jeremy <ppr39@aol.com>
Cincinnati, OHIO USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 10:02:37 (EST)
i like to reed
benni hanna <therrjohn67@aol.com>
Kentucky, KY USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 10:00:21 (EST)
I'm a senior in high school. we have just read"the things they carried" this was the first book i have fully paid attetion too and i love it. Tim has inspired me to talk to my uncle about the war because he just hides it inside and is very moody. I have read the new york times article and it was a very passionate story and made me want to go vistit vietnam just so i can try to feel some of those feelings that O'brien and all of those other soldiers have felt. thanks Mr.O'brien
eddie <jdmlovingcrx@hotmail.com>
fairfield, oh USA - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at 10:00:16 (EST)
Mr. O'Brien
I was present at the James Madison University Freshman Orientation speech. The more you spoke the more captivated I became, I do not think I have ever had tears fill my eyes during a speech or among so many people. I felt as if you touched upon a topic very close to home for me. My brother was killed in a car accident two years ago, he was seven. My life became an absolute nightmare and I almost felt as if I could somehow touch or relate to how you felt. Your description and emotions during the war is a projection of how I felt when Michael was killed. It was almost like I was living in a combat zone. None of the people around me could understand why I was so deeply moved by your speech, but of course they could not. I wanted to come and shake your hand and say thank you for doing what I could not do- write the feeling, the pain, and put it into some sort of order or structure so others can somehow grasp what your reality is. You have inspired me to try and put my nightmare on paper, so far it has helped me make sense or at least organize my thoughts. The other reason for my writing you, is I ended up taking a medical withdrawal from JMU and am now attending part-time classes at Mary Washington College in VA. In my world issues in literature class we are doing keyword projects. My keyword is "complicity" - the only thing that popped into my head was the story you told about the blind man and the milk during your speech at JMU. It demonstrates how humans can be so cruel to one another, yet the onlookers or someone else who feels they are doing wrong do not speak up. As soon as I saw the group of words I could choose from, I knew I wanted to do complicity and I wanted to open with your story from the speech. It gave me chills down my spine and I want to share this intensity with my audience. I have looked on JMU's website and they do not have a copy of the speech, so if you by any chance have a copy or at least a summary of that specific story, or another story you think would fit "complicity" I would be very grateful if you would share those with me.
Once again I thank you for allowing us the privelege to explore your life and all the terribly painful things that occurred. You and your writing has affected me in many ways and I am extremely grateful.
Sincerely,
Sarah H. Ridgeway
Sarah H. Ridgeway <shridgeway@earthlink.net>
Orange, VA USA - Wednesday, February 11, 2004 at 00:49:56 (EST)
I just finished reading "The Things They Carried" and it was like I was reading about my husband. I am a 21 y.o college student and my husband, 22, just got back from the war in Iraq. Yes, the wars are different, yet they are alike in so many ways, especially if you are military. The humanity doesn't change, only the setting and how we might perceive it. It was eerie to be reading about Cross and thinking that could be my husband, my love, going through that, being shot at, having mortars thrown at him in the line of duty, for his country. Yet we were apart yet together as Martha demonstrated with her analogy of the waves washing in from the steady ebb of the flowing sea. This story brought back so many emotions of the past year; it can only serve to remind us of what we are here for. I hope future generations who have not gone through the tragedy and hardship of war (on both ends) read this and understand how easy they have life.
Tegan <teganservais@cox.net>
Oklahoma City, OK USA - Monday, February 09, 2004 at 22:42:06 (EST)
HI~ I am a 16 year old high school student who just finished reading The Things They Carried for the second time. I am very interested in the vietnam war, and this book became my favorite book from the moment I picked it up. Thanks Mr. O'Brien... for making a book that continues to teach people of all ages things they should not be without. I will carry with me the lessons I learned from this book.
Greta <krzyzewski4pres@hotmail.com>
GA USA - Monday, February 09, 2004 at 14:44:11 (EST)
I am an 18 year old college student who is currently reading "The Things They Carried" in my historical literature class at Miami University Middletown. I have never really taken an interest in the Vietnam War, and have never enjoyed reading about it until this book. I find it to be one of the most engaging and heartbreaking books I have ever read. I've never seen so much compassion and beauty in a war story before. I really wish that Mr. O' Brien could perform a speech at my college. I really respect his writing and would love to meet him in person.
Zac Bailey <beauty_hurts_mr_vinal@yahoo.com>
Middletown, OH USA - Sunday, February 08, 2004 at 22:02:49 (EST)
Hi Marilynn, I am a longtime Tim O'Brien fan and recipient of your emails, but I have recently lost your email address and am hoping you can help me. I am doing some contracted work for Denison University, a prestigious private college located in Granville, Ohio, and am hoping to book Mr. O'Brien for a talk in Spring '05. Do you know who I should contact to propose the idea? Drop me an email @ samhanford@hotmail.com.
Thank you!
Samantha Hanford <samhanford@hotmail.com>
Columbus, OH USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 16:01:25 (EST)
We are interested in scheduling your appearance in Mathews Virginia, a small rural county on the Chesapeake Bay. This is planned in coordination with our "Read It Mathews" program which is modelled after Richmond Read and other community-wide reading initiatives. We will be using "The Things They Carried" as our selection for 2004, beginning in April and concluding in late May. Please let me know how to contact you for further discussion on availability. thank you. bette dillehay, director
Bette Dillehay <bettedillehay@mathewslibrary.org>
Mathews, va USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 13:14:20 (EST)
My son gave me The Things They Carried for my recent birthday...great reading...really takes me back (C/4/21,11th LIB & HHC, 198th Inf-Americal Div.'68-'69)...so many things I had "forgotten"...a few sad reflections but also a lot of smiles. Thanks Tim!
Mike Thompson <k8upr@aol.com>
Westerville, OH USA - Thursday, January 29, 2004 at 16:31:11 (EST)
I'm reading your book The Things They Carried for my Enlish class the only book that is required to read. I hope i can send you email and ask information aboutit
mercedes <mermehd8@aol.com>
antioch, ca USA - Thursday, January 29, 2004 at 16:10:55 (EST)
I am associated with XanEdu Publishing Services in Atlanta. We publish College CoursePacks. We are attempting to contact Mr.O'brien to obtain copyright permission for use of "The Things They Carried" in a CoursePack. Is there a phone#, fax# or direct email address by which I can submit our formal request? Thank you!
Julie Handschin <jhandschin@xanedu.com>
Norcross, GA USA - Wednesday, January 28, 2004 at 08:31:33 (EST)
I have been a fan for years. I'm nearly done July,July and had almost forgotten how beautifully written a novel can be; I've already dog-eared pages with exceptionally good passages. I look forward to the next novel. Thanks.
Jim Wenzell <owenmeany3@excite.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Wednesday, January 28, 2004 at 00:23:13 (EST)
Hiya Tim, long time no see!! Met you over twenty years ago (you said I could play Cacciato--) and then six? years ago in St. Louis (you gave a reading.) Anyway, it was in Saint Louis that I attended a reading of yours---Tomcat in Love??
Anyway, ...hope springs eternal (and a 47-year old trying to play an 18 to 22 year old had better have a LOT of hope...) HOWEVER...there is the "whatever happened to" factor. Maybe. Richard
Richard Olson <not shown>
Tucson, AZ USA - Tuesday, January 27, 2004 at 01:02:56 (EST)
hello mr. O'brien my names abbey and i have read three of your books in the past week, july, july,the things they carried, and if i die in a combat zone...you are an excellent writer and you are exceptional at putting words together, i know praise from a 17 yr old isnt much, but if it helps, i never read, ever, i havent read a full book, before yours in like 5 years..so thank you for allowng me to read...good job on your war stories, please write more...i wanna hear more about kiowa and drowning in shit....oh well.lol-abbey-
Abbey <abby_0808@hotmail.com>
wolfeboro, nh USA - Monday, January 26, 2004 at 12:14:50 (EST)
Hi. Nice language. Your language is much better then mine :) Author knows his job. Regards. Sincerely, PYT_guy.
Pass a drug test <padt_2004@yahoo.com>
Fenix, AZ USA - Monday, January 26, 2004 at 11:43:03 (EST)
Dear Mr. O'Brien,
I'm a high school student in Houston, TX and we have to do an interview of war vetrans for english and I was woundering if you'd be kind enough to answer some questions that I have. In English we read the short story 'Speaking of Courage' And both me and my friend had the same reation to it, we almost cried. If you don't want to answer any more quiestons about your time in Vietnam I do understand, and I also relize that I could get most of the information that I'd need from all the bios up but I thought it would be really cool if you wouldn't mind doing yet anouther interview for a high schooler and mail me back and I'll send you the questions if you wish.
Thank you for your time.
Amanda Grey
Amanda Grey <ladytalya@yahoo.com>
Houston, TX USA - Sunday, January 25, 2004 at 18:19:27 (EST)
Dear Mr. O'Brien,
My name is Sophia and I'm writing from Russia. I have recently read your novel "In the Lake of the Woods" which has been issued here in hardback a couple of months ago. Of course, you get thousands of thank-you letters for your books, and this is one is not the exception. But the novel made such a deep impact on me, that I stepped over the shyness and decided to write to you. I like to read a lot, but yours "In the Lake..." was one of the most powerful books I read after Dostoevsky's "Brothers Karamazov", and I am beeing honest.
It is, of course, my personal opinion -- just because my fiancee is into Political Science and the pre-election business, and I'm really interested in the history of the Vietnam War -- which here in Russia had been covered in a very different way, than in States, as you can imagine. Your book made me think again and again about the question, whether a man has a right to conceal awful truth from those he loves more than life itself. Whether we can keep something only to ourselves and try to get rid of the memories -- or true love means full truth, full trust? And what is truth, after all? And who is a man -- just someone he was or someone he wants to be (and tries to be)? And who is the enemy at war -- just a nameless something or a man with a past and future? And who is a soldier -- someone who obeys or someone able to "betray" his country, it this country gives him humiliating orders? We've been discussing it with my fiancee long before reading the novel, and after it -- but seems like life itself couldn't answer. I'm not sure, if there even are answers to questions raised in your book, but what its absolute virtue is, is that it makes people think. Unfortunatelly, there are not so many books like that in modern literature. Or maybe I'm just a bad reader.
But still, thank you, Mr. O'Brien. Too bad, I didn't read any of your other works, for they haven't been translated into Russian, like "In the Lake of the Woods", or at least sold here in Moscow. But I believe, that they are also outstanding. I wish people of the powerful countries would think more often on the questions of moral and ethics, who knows, maybe this could help to stop the crazyness of the violent world?..
I'm sorry for keeping your attention for such a long time, Mr. O'Brien, I'm finishing this letter now.
Thank you again.
My best regards, Sophia Schoore.
Sophia Schoore <lasta@rambler.ru>
Moscow, Russia - Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 06:33:59 (EST)
I'm a nam vet @1968-69 and served some not far from your ao; I think all your books are powerful. I was a marine rifleman and so can say with pride fi semper! pants that war wimp georgie B.
john akins <jacolesdad@earthlink.net>
seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 20:49:59 (EST)
The King Alfred's COllege Tim O'Brien Resources Page is now available once again after some technical problems. Students of O'Brien's work are welcome to visit, browse and send feedback/questions.
http://www.wkac.ac.uk/TimObrien/Obrien.htm
King Alfred's College
UK - Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 07:50:06 (EST)
Hi Tim. How are you. I met you in Ireland in Hughes pub in Connemara a few years ago. My friend Sally is making a documentary for TG4 the Irish language TV station about the Ulster/scots in America and she would like to contact you. I'll put her on to this web site. It is 19/1/04. Hope all is well with you we had a great sesson that night with Charlie Lennon etc.
Happy New Year
Cathal Johnson <cathaljohnson@hotmail.com>
Falcarrch town, Donegal Ireland - Monday, January 19, 2004 at 08:15:45 (EST)
I spent a drunken evening with Tim once in Oxford, MS. I'd like to say "hi", and that I hope all is well with Tim.
Kristie Bunting <pumaluvr@hotmail.com>
Lakewood, CO USA - Sunday, January 18, 2004 at 22:53:43 (EST)
A friend gave me the things they carried to read. Thanks. I had a hard time reading it. It took a couple of tries. I wasn't in Vietnam. I was born in 69. I did get to play in Round I of the Gulf War, though, and had a really, really bad week, during late February, 1991. I think part of me never came back. Your book jolted a door open that had been locked shut. I needed it. Thanks again.
robb <rmr0218@yahoo.com>
seattle, wa USA - Sunday, January 18, 2004 at 15:09:07 (EST)
Hello, my name is Angela Sullivan and I am a seventeen year old and I am absolutely in love with all of your books. I have NEVER been a fan of reading until we used you work The Things They Carried in my english class. Ever since, I have almost been obsessed with owning and reading all of your books. I just wanted you to know the impact you have made in my literary life and I also wanted to commend you on being such a wonderful author
Angela Sullivan <angisulli05@yahoo.com>
Pawleys Island, SC USA - Friday, January 16, 2004 at 20:21:47 (EST)
Dear Mr. O'Brien
Would you be interested in visiting our high school. We have taught your book "They Things They Carried" since 1990
and would love to have some discussion with you.
I am the media person at Red Wing and my e-mail address
is ptrask@redwing.k12.mn.us.
Thanks for your time!!
Patricia Trask <ptrask@redwing.k12.mn.us>
Red Wing, MN USA - Friday, January 16, 2004 at 09:05:53 (EST)
I love ever book you have ever written each and everyone is a masterpiece. I love your work they make me feel like Im a spectator in Nam standing and watching everything happening. The masterpieces you have created make me want to join the military despite all the hardships encountered.
Ani <aniiam22@yahoo.com>
Whittier, Ca USA - Wednesday, January 14, 2004 at 23:30:01 (EST)
hi, im trying to find an autographed copy of the things they carried... its my best friends favorite book and her copy is destroyed and it would really be a great gift to her for her birthday... if anyone can help please email me
kes <cagedlynx@aol.com>
Bellmore, ny USA - Tuesday, January 13, 2004 at 15:46:08 (EST)
Dear Tim O'brien
I love all your work. I’m an 8th grader and I’m doing a term paper, where I have to chose three books from one author, read them, and compare them. I also need to get biographical information on the author. Naturally I chose you. My teacher thought at the beginning (and still does) that I’m in way too over my head with you as my author. She thinks it’s for an older age group. I’ve always been interested in more advanced books. I get bored too easily with others. I am only truly interested in a book when there is something to learn from it. She still feels I am to in over my head. And of coarse being myself I’m too stubborn to change my mind. I am determined to do well on this term paper and show her that I understood everything that you wrote or stated. I was won