Tim O'Brien's 1998 Guest Book

On Discussing Conjecture From Tim O'Brien's In the Lake of the Woods Is conjecture a crisis? Someone who didn't know thought so in its midst. Because one desires to be validated, he thought, saying "A conjecture is a crisis." The class wasn't stunned. I prodded the student, "The hope of being picked like an orange the farmer loves and returns to. An orange tree from a dirt field in the distance, a stage for people's promise and perversion." Maybe she wants to be let alone, given a break, but not ignored. She desires validation as well. That's the problem with language (or love); it never truly works things out. Validation. Validation was her name and the name I give to her voice in my ear when I hear the clock, or I turn on the shower and hear a voice in the chamber of her misplaced bones, rained-on, danced inside of. Maybe the echo of love is wearing thin along this bluff, across this lake where the wave baptizes and corrupts with a smile, with a wave. . . and she's a tear running across the statue's forgotten melancholy, a millennium of magic set to the calm of a bird's breathing, dying along the crowded boardwalk, maybe her body lost in the crowd. Maybe they are the long gone on their way now to meet us, to give to us two fish swimming towards each other in different pools, breathing different bubbles. Impossibility. That's conjecture. Love. That's conjecture; the islands where the pines freeze and the fish whistle and the statue skies above like a feather, an absence danced to after so many turns at learning the words and their meanings. By Matt Copeland iammj@anet.net
matt copeland <iammj@anet.com>
studio city, ca USA - Thursday, December 31, 1998 at 05:05:34 (CST)

Hi Tim, My wife talked to my sisters, Chris and Marge and they say that they remember you. I take it that you lived two houses down from the corner of 8th and 8th. I lived in the green house on the corner and if memory serves me right you lived in a white house with a small front porch closer to 8th and 7th. Would like to hear from you when you have time. thanks
Herbert C. Voorhees <hcv1208@smig.net>
Austin, Mn USA - Tuesday, December 29, 1998 at 17:17:26 (CST)

Tim I was reading the article about you in Minnesota Monthly. I grew up in Austin in the Sumner School neighborhood. I gathered from the address you gave in the article you might have been in that neighborhood also. There was a younger brother of a friend of mine whose name was Herb Voorheese. I wonder if that could be the "Herbie" you talk about. I'd be interested in hearing from you. Jim Herrick
Jim Herrick <jvherric@wolf.co.net>
Austin , MN USA - Monday, December 28, 1998 at 22:10:21 (CST)

Tim, as an English teacher and a veteran of the US Army, Infantry, I must tell you that your books are outstanding! Please keep writing from your heart. Your style is so unique! My 11th grade son is reading all of your work, as well. He too, is enjoying your work. Our favorite novel so far is, "The Things They Carried" We are having a little trouble getting hold of "Going After Cacciato" it is on back order. Thank you so much for your wonderful work. Bill and James Peterson, South Lake Tahoe, California.
Bill Peterson <tahoe38@sierra.net>
S.Lake Tahoe, ca USA - Friday, December 25, 1998 at 18:14:42 (CST)

I think Tim O'Brien is one of the best novelists; I am currently doing a independent project on Tim O'Brien and his work. My father fought in the Vietnam war as well as my late uncle, who died from cancer casued from the Agent Orange he was sprayed with during the war. These books all have an emotional and personal impact on me, and I think they're the best books I've read.
Lindsay George <LKG 01@aol.com>
Sherborn, MA USA - Monday, December 21, 1998 at 16:23:17 (CST)

Hi, I am currently finishing my final year at school at for English we have to write about the "In the Lake of the Woods". Would you have in Information you could send me or links that would be helpful? Thanks.
Steven <nickmck@alphalink.com.au>
Melbourne, VIC Australia - Sunday, December 20, 1998 at 22:56:47 (CST)

Hi, Mr. O'Brien! I'm an MA student in English at Kansas State, and last week I decided to do my Masters Thesis on your work. I plan to read everything before I decide what to focus on, and, if possible, I would like to discuss some of your work with you. I have until May 2000 to write my thesis so I'll probably be in touch periodically. I guess I'm writing this now to let you know that when my thesis advisor asked me which late 20th century American author (I had that much figured out) I'd like to spend a year and a half studying, it took me about two seconds to come up with your name. Thanks for being an inspiration!
Holly Hoe <hlh3756@ksu.edu>
Manhattan, KS USA - Sunday, December 20, 1998 at 17:50:46 (CST)

The things they carried is one of the best books I have ever read. Going after Cacciato and In the lake of the woods were good too. But it's difficult -almost impossible- to buy your books here. Anyhow, keep writing. I'll keep searching in bookstores.
Eduardo Villar <countries@agea.com.ar>
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Friday, December 18, 1998 at 15:15:04 (CST)

Dear Mr. O'Brien, I am 18 years old and a freshman at West Chester University. For my literature class we had to read "The Things They Carried". The book is incredible and I wish that I had known about your books earlier. You posess great talent and I am about to begin "Going After Cacciato". I am now a fan, and plan on reading your other works. I believe that "The Things They Carried," provided me with a better understandig of what war is like for the young man who must leave his home. I'm not sure if this relates, or if you or anyone else will actually read all this...but 2 of my older brothers were in the military. They did not serve in Vietnam, but one was in Okinawa and the Philippines. The other served in Germany and Bosnia. They did not have to fight in a war, but now I know what war is like, and am thankful that they did not have to fight...although I am sure that they may carry certain things that they may never share with their sister (me). Keep up the good work, and if you're in Philadelphia PA, anytime soon, let me know. Thanks for being an excellent writer, I hope that others may read and learn as I have.
Bea Caycedo <Lilia9802@aol.com>
West Chester, PA USA - Wednesday, December 16, 1998 at 22:51:45 (CST)

I am eighteen years old, and this Christmas, I decided to give my father, a Vietnam vet, something special. I decided to make him a scrapbook of pictures, news clippings, etc. Looking for information at the liabrary, I came across your book. Before deciding to do this project, I had little knowledge of wars. I came across your book, "If I die in a combat zone"... and decided to read it. I started it yesterday, and although I am only halfway through it, the reality of the war you, and my father had experienced, has made quite an impact on me. I would just like to Thank you for giving me this opportunity to really visualize the extremeites of the war, and also for helping me understand my father better. When he talks about the war, there is something in his voice that is different then when he usually speaks of other things...and now I think I am beginning to understand why.
Kim <Intel18F@aol.com>
Bloomington, MN USA - Wednesday, December 16, 1998 at 21:06:50 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien, I read In the Lake of the Woods because I had to, but now I choose to read the rest of your books because of their insight and thoughts on life. Thank you for letting me and so many others into your world, so that we may enjoy your books for their entertainment value, but also so we may learn from their content. Thank you!
Lori Kosakowski
Independence, OH USA - Saturday, December 12, 1998 at 21:22:53 (CST)

Denmark rules!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Laura & Eva <none>
Glostrup, Denmark - Tuesday, December 08, 1998 at 01:44:50 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien, Flattery first: Your books are overwhelming. To the writer in me they are nothing short of inspirational, to the philosopher in me they are the source of many sleepless nights, to story-junky in me they are a fix, and to my soul they are a luscious melody. There. I could not have continued under the pretense that I was not in awe of your talents. Now, I was wondering if you had found a reader yet for the audio book of Tomcat In Love. If so, could you tell me who it is; if not, would you consider auditioning me? Second, When in your book tour will you be in NYC? And lastly, I have been batting around the idea of, and doing some research toward, the writing of a screenplay concerning the court martial of William Calley. Would you be interested in offering any advice on either the writing or the subject matter, or (dare i ask) collaborating? Nicholas
Nicholas Gray <nicharg@erols.com>
NYC, NY USA - Sunday, December 06, 1998 at 23:59:39 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien please keep up the great work! Your books are excellent so far I've read Going After Caciatto and The Things They Carried and I loved them both.Thanks for all the enjoyment. Your writing makes me feel that I a member in the platoons when I'm reading your works. Thanks again! Jason
Jason Savageau
Manchester, nNH USA - Sunday, December 06, 1998 at 19:32:26 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien please keep up the great work! Your books are excellent so far I've read Going After Caciatto and The Things They Carried and I loved them both.Thanks for all the enjoyment. Your writing makes me feel that I a member in the platoons when I'm reading your works. Thanks again! Jason
Jason Savageau
Manchester, nNH USA - Sunday, December 06, 1998 at 19:32:14 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien please keep up the great work! Your books are excellent so far I've read Going After Caciatto and The Things They Carried and I loved them both.Thanks for all the enjoyment. Your writing makes me feel that I a member in the platoons when I'm reading your works. Thanks again! Jason
Jason Savageau
Manchester, nNH USA - Sunday, December 06, 1998 at 19:31:40 (CST)

If I Die in a Combat Zone is the subject I have chosen for my English exam at school. Could someone confirm whether it is truly an autobiography or an autobiographical novel. For someone born in 1983 it is a fascinating insight to the Vietnam War and the U.S.'s reaction to it. I can think of no better choice. Thank you Mr O'Brien.
Gavin Major <Beemajor@aol.com>
Dunfermline, Scotland - Wednesday, December 02, 1998 at 15:42:49 (CST)

Greetings, greetings, greetings, I have read The Things They Carried and enjoyed 't much. But I don't believe you, Mr. O'Brien. You repeatedly deny the piece as being a work of autobiography, and claim 't to be fiction. But alas, I shall prove you wrong in my final research paper, to be done before the fourteenth of December. You're an excellent (and ambitious) writer, no doubt the spokesman of Vietnam as Fitzgerald was to the Jazz Age. I don't suppose you'll ever read this, but if you do, you'll always know for sure the genuine truth about the validity of this book, about which the rest, and myself included, can only dream, speculate, and conjecture.
Tom <aragorn395@aol.com>
Springfield, PA USA - Wednesday, December 02, 1998 at 13:33:46 (CST)

Dear Tim, I found several mentions of your book "The Things They Carried" and I have to tell you that the material I have been fortunate enough to find, so far, is awesome. Another student, here at Floyd College, turned me onto your book & recommended it as a 'must' read. If you find time, please feel free to check out our college webzine, there may be some things of interest to you. Also, I have created a memorial exclusively for Vietnam Veterans that I hope you will like. This site is really only just a baby, being a little over a year old and my first attempt at creating a web site. Thank you for all you do & have done. URL for FC BYTES: www.fc.peachnet.edu/webzine; URL for the 'Forever Heroes' memorial site: http://home.earthlink.net/~fldjcros00/index.html Sincerely, Janice M. Cross
Janice Cross <jcros00@mail.fc.peachnet.edu>
Rome, GA USA - Saturday, November 28, 1998 at 13:36:38 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien, I would like to issue an invitation to chat with a group of readers who are somewhat addicted to a site called Red Dog Salon on the AOL Book Central Readers Board. Please stop in for a look. We hhere at Floyd College, turned me onto your book & recommended it as a 'must' read. If you find time, please feel free to check out our college webzine, there may be some things of interest to you. Also, I have created a memorial exclusively for Vietnam Veterans that I hope you will like. This site is really only just a baby, being a little over a year old and my first attempt at creating a web site. Thank you for all you do & have done. URL for FC BYTES: www.fc.peachnet.edu/webzine; URL for the 'Forever Heroes' memorial site: http://home.earthlink.net/~fldjcros00/index.html Sincerely, Janice M. Cross
Janice Cross <jcros00@mail.fc.peachnet.edu>
Rome, GA USA - Saturday, November 28, 1998 at 13:36:38 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien, I would like to issue an invitation to chat with a group of readers who are somewhat addicted to a site called Red Dog Salon on the AOL Book Central Readers Board. Please stop in for a look. We had a recent chat with Robert Olen Butler which was very successful (in attendance, response and discussion) and have obtained a commitment from Ron Hansen to chat soon. You have been read by almost (if not all) posters on this "elite" board (we tend to be a bit tongue in check as well), and discussed at length. Please consider this invitation and email me for more information or stop in at the Salon for a look: aol://5863:126/mb:217867. Ofcourse, you have to be logged in on AOL to access this. Hope to hear from you. Kat2
Katherine Szymkowicz <TAN197@aol.com>
San Francisco, CA USA - Thursday, November 26, 1998 at 17:13:31 (CST)

Dear Sir Of all books ever forced upon students during English class, of all summer reading requirements, of all assigments, having to read your book "The Things They Carried" was the best one ever, better than any singe book ever read in English classes across the country. It had so much feeling, so much power, it made me and my classmates think, which so many adults today doubt, the fact that we, teeneagers, can think.... we can. and people like you help us. Thank you Sincerily Valerie
Valerie <MiMiGirl5@yahoo.com>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Monday, November 23, 1998 at 14:14:30 (CST)

I am a VietNam vet with PTSD disability, I am most impressed with others comments about your work. I haven't read any of your material as of yet but intend to do so. It must have been very healing for you to be able to communicate your experiences in a way that has reached so many. I am envious. I served with The 145th Combat Aviation Battalion in 1970. I am sure my experiences don't compare with yours but they were horrific enough to imposs themselves on me for life. Thank you for getting the message out.
Robert Townsend <rct@USWEST.NET>
Denver, CO USA - Monday, November 23, 1998 at 12:40:15 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien, your book The THings They Carried disgusted me, the stories were so disturbing I had trouble even attempting to understand it. These people who say your books are "superb" or that they reall "enjoy" really scare me. What kind of sick person enjoys reading "Speaking of Courage," they make me sick. I figure I should be reading your books to understand war somehow, if i enjoy your book i get the distinct feeling i really haven't grasped anything about war. THe best job you did explaing war to me was "The Vietnam in Me" thank you, i cant know how much that killed you (or saved you from killing yourself, whatever) to write. Be Good, alex
Alex Adamson <adamson.5@nd.edu>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Sunday, November 22, 1998 at 23:52:44 (CST)

Hay how is it going? I love all of your books Sir. They are all realistinc and very inusual to most of the readers. I am thankfull that you are writing stories that give people an idea about the war. And how wrong it is. Keep up to good work Sir. Bye byeee
Alexsander <Kaneda88@hotmail.com>
Lowell, ma USA - Friday, November 20, 1998 at 12:58:04 (CST)

I just sent you an e-mail, but now I've read your biography I wanted to tell you one more thing about myself. I went through basic training at Ft. Knox. I was in the 3rd. platoon Alpha Co. of the 2nd. battallion in the 46th. I now feel closer, though I know My experiences will never compare to yours. Thanks again
Adam Weitzel <aweitzel@juno.com>
provo, ut USA - Wednesday, November 18, 1998 at 13:19:33 (CST)

I am a student at Brigham Young Univesity and I've read a few of your books. I am an english major hoping to be a writer like yourself. I have chosen you to me my mentor for a creative writing class that I am in. I am examining and studying your writing techniques and learning a lot from your style. However, I am learning more about humanity than I will ever earn about writting skills. Your amazing. Thank you for taking the time to put in down to paper. I would love to get an address whee I could send you some of my work, and a letter I wrote to you after reading, "The things they carried." Thank You Mr. O'Brian
Adam Weitzel <aweitzel@juno.com>
provo, ut USA - Wednesday, November 18, 1998 at 13:14:31 (CST)

Nr.OBrien, I was hoping to find an e-mail address that would allow me to ask you a few quesions about your writing style that may help me with an assignment I am currently working on in a course I am taking at Florida State University. I am in awe of your ability as a writer and would like to express my deepest admiration for your story telling ability. I chose to focuse my paper on your style of telling a "True war story", discussing the use of fact and fiction in "The Things They Carried" If by some chance you read this and find the time to reapond I would truly be greatful for your help in answering a few questions. Thank you again for you time and your willingness to enlighten us all with your novels. (and, in "In The Lake Of The Woods", I think she just ran away.)
Renee <reneecv@hotmail.com>
tallahassee, FL USA - Tuesday, November 17, 1998 at 19:26:09 (CST)

I use The Things They Carried as the centerpieces of my AP English course and my VHS course. In the four years that I have used it, it has been the best received text. It works well with Conrad's Heart of Darkness and Baldwin's Sonny's Blues. There, I've given away all of my secrets to teaching successfully. Great books by great authors. (In The Lake of the Woods is a summer reading option but not as many students choose it.)
Tom Redding <tredding@neo.lrun.com>
Wadsworth, OH USA - Tuesday, November 17, 1998 at 07:13:54 (CST)

I use The Things They Carried as the centerpieces of my AP English course and my VHS course. In the four years that I have used it, it has been the best received text. It works well with Conrad's Heart of Darkenss and Baldwin's Sonny's Blues. There, I've given away all of my secrets to teaching successfully. Great books by great authors. (In The Lake of the Woods is a summer reading option but not as many students choose it.)
Tom Redding <tredding@neo.lrun.com>
Wadsworth, OH USA - Tuesday, November 17, 1998 at 07:13:15 (CST)

Your work is most amazing. What a priviledge to be able to read your stories. They are very inspiring to us whose hardships and fears are similiar to what others have experienced in their lifetime. Thank you for being so kind and sharing your trials in life.
Dayna Foxley <duckwman@aol.com>
Tulare, CA USA - Sunday, November 15, 1998 at 22:13:58 (CST)

I am currently writing my senior thesis on the concept of innocence within your works.
Kathryn Quigley <kathryn.quigley@mail.trincoll.edu>
Hartford, CT USA - Saturday, November 14, 1998 at 22:38:49 (CST)

Dear Mr. O'Brien, TOMCAT IN LOVE is magnificent. I thank you for the hours of hilarity and truth and compassion. Am happy to wave a hand dumbly in the direction of your book to any and all who pass by. Congratulations. J. Patrick Lewis
j. patrick lewis <jplewis42@aol.com>
Chagrin Falls , OH USA - Saturday, November 14, 1998 at 10:24:34 (CST)

I saw "A Soldier's Sweetheart" on Showtime this evening. It is a beautiful, almost poetic story. I will enjoy reading "The Things They Carried" and your other books. Keep at it. --- D.
D. F. (Dee) Hubbard <df_hubbard@msn.com>
Annandale, Va USA - Thursday, November 12, 1998 at 21:41:55 (CST)

I heard on a talk show on the radio the selection "After the war" and was wondering how to get a copy of that story. It really touched my heart. The only thing I remember was the web site. Thank you and keep up the great stories.
Ron Hayes <randl@snowcrest.net>
Yreka, CA USA - Wednesday, November 11, 1998 at 19:16:25 (CST)

I am writing a paper on the role of Lavender in the story "The Things They Carried." I am extremely interested in the Vietnam War. Your name came up before when I wrote a paper entitled 'The Lasting Affects of the Vietnam War on American Society.' I am very excited to learn more about you. If you have any free time I would appreciate it greatly if you could send me some hints on the role of Lavendar in your story. I would be forever grateful. Sincerely, Amy Johnson
Amy Johnson <Amyblue82@hotmail.com>
Malibu, CA USA - Monday, November 09, 1998 at 19:01:29 (CST)

Hello Tim ......I am a vietnam widow...my husband died of Agent Orange .I have not yet read any of your books but will start ......Maybe i can get some answers on questions yet left unanswerd.......Please let me know if you ever come near harrisburg .P.A. thanks kitty
Kitty <Spunky_84@hotmail.com>
P.A. USA - Sunday, November 08, 1998 at 10:29:15 (CST)

Tim, I enjoyed your reading and discussion of "Tomcat in Love" at Politics & Prose (DC, October 21). (Thanks for signing my copy!) I was fortunate to have Dick Bausch as one of my college professors: he introduced me to your writing with "Going After Cacciato." I loved the book, and like to "read writers" rather than individual works, but somehow lost track of your work over the years. I'm thrilled that I've rediscovered such a fine writer. Having read "Tomcat," I've begun reading "In the Lake of the Woods," and am looking forward to your other works. Susan.
Susan Kamenski <skamenski@kskcommunications.com>
Vienna, VA USA - Thursday, November 05, 1998 at 17:00:31 (CST)

I don't know if you read this--and it doesn't really matter because I know for sure that there is no way to express to you what you have given me. The first book that I read was The Things They Carried--my father was in Vietnam, and because of your book being more about love and relationships than about war--I was able to relate to my father in a way that I never would have been able to if it weren't for your book. You have somehow brought me so much closer to my father through your amazing words. There is no way to describe how talented you are. I have pretty much read everyting else--except northern lights--that is hard to get. I didn't know that you were in DC a couple of weeks ago-I knew when you were in michigan and I called my friend at U of M and told her to go to your signing--she picked up a copy of tomcat in love and sent it to me. Again--you never cease to amaze me. If you are around D.C again--I promise I will find out and be there. Thank you for everything. Andrea Berman
Andrea Berman <aberman@umich.edu>
Washington, DC USA - Thursday, November 05, 1998 at 14:17:01 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien, I find you to be one of the most incredible writers of our time. Your novels have truly moved and inspired me. I want to thank you for sharing your stories, as horrible as they are. It gives the general public an understanding of war, and minimizes the so-called "glory." I am sure that I am only one of your very many appreciative fans, but I hope you know now that your works have meant a lot to me. Very Sincerely, Karen
Karen <DUCHARMEK@post.uwstout.edu>
Roseville, MN USA -

Tim, I just was introduced to your writing via The Things They Carried (our book club selection). I love the way you write: clear, honest, and touching my heart. Congratulations! AND thanks. I look forward to reading your other works.
Molly Johnston <mollyj@pacbell.net>
Ojai, CA USA - Monday, November 02, 1998 at 21:52:57 (CST)

I am reading Going After Cacciato and enjoying it. I've always enjoyed war stories.
Jonathan Allen
Gulfport, Ms USA - Monday, November 02, 1998 at 17:07:10 (CST)

Writing a dissertation about your works from the perspective of rhetorical analysis.
George Luker <lukergm@aol.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Monday, November 02, 1998 at 09:46:36 (CST)

For my final year of secondary school for year 12 English, we are doing 'In the Lake Of The Woods', and I m ust say that this book is one of the best books I have read, even for an english text resposnse novel, its great, keep up the good work. Tommorow I have to write an essay on it, in my final year exam.
Sean Flynn <seafly@tcc-comp.com.au>
Ballarat, Vi Australia - Thursday, October 29, 1998 at 05:30:05 (CST)

I am doing a research paper on some of your short stories and I have enjoyed them thoroughly. I have always wondered about the war but could never find anyone who would talk about it. Keep up the great work.
Alan Breaux Jr. <abreauxjr@aol.com>
Lafayette, LA USA - Tuesday, October 27, 1998 at 22:28:45 (CST)

I am doing a research paper on some of your short stories and I have enjoyed them thoroughly. I have always wondered about the war but could never find anyone who would talk about. Keep up the great work.
Alan Breaux Jr. <abreauxjr@aol.com>
Lafayette, LA USA - Tuesday, October 27, 1998 at 22:25:46 (CST)

I read "If I Die in a Combat Zone" when I was quite young and loved it. Tim O'Brien is indeed a brilliant writer. I'm looking forward to seeing him read in Denver this week. I would love to hear his thoughts on Vietnam - the country - as it is now. Has he returned?
Lynda Young <LJYoung@concentric.net>
Manitou Springs, CO USA - Tuesday, October 27, 1998 at 18:00:00 (CST)

Thanks for the link back to wgtn.net. It's been a long time since we built that "fort" in back on 420 Worthmore. I see your parents occasionally at Perkins. Have asked about your sister, who I had a crush on at that time . . It was beautiful . . but sadly one sided. I now live back in Worthington and am the person behind the wgtn.net city web site. It was alot harder to build than the "fort", but probably more useful.
Bob Rohrer <rfrohrer@rconnect.com>
Worthington, MN USA - Monday, October 26, 1998 at 20:59:35 (CST)

Mr. Obrien, Like you I am an author of the Vietnam War. I have just finished and published a 1200 page tome which consists of 51 chapters telling stories of those who died in Vietnam (each man I write about had a camp, compound, airfield or other facility in Nam named in his honor). I have recieved great comments on the book and several people have suggested that our writing styles parallel, although I must admit I have never read any of your work. I have heard nothing but great things about THE THINGS THEY CARRIED. A friend of mine, Marie Wright attended a lecture you gave in DC the other night (on your new book - a non-Vietnam topic) and again suggested that I contact you. The bottom line is that I am self published - have a hardbound 1200 page book out entitled VIETNAM MILITARY LORE - LEGENDS, SHADOWS AND HEROES. . . a book that General Hal Moore called "A National Teasure" but can't for the life of me (with the exception of a full page ad in Vietnam Magazine) figure out how to market it. I would like to send you a copy if I thought it might do me some good. I'll be in DC over Veterans Day. What's in this for you? I don't have a clue! Thank for the time Ray Bows, 2055 Washington st. Hanover, MASS 02339 781-293-2900 E-Mail namlore@dreamcom.net.
Ray Bows <namlore@dreamcom.net>
Hanover, MA USA - Sunday, October 25, 1998 at 18:25:46 (CST)

I read "In the Lake of the Woods" for and Advanced Placement English class. I really enjoyed the book and now our class is putting John Wade on trial for Kathy's dissappearence. I'm a defence lawyer for him. I'm glad that there are things about Tim O'Brien and his works on the internet. Great books--keep up the great work!
Jen Mayne <mayneliner@hotmail.com>
NY USA - Wednesday, October 21, 1998 at 18:32:41 (CDT)

I'm 15 years old and I am a sophomore at JP Stevens HS in Edison. I'm reading your story "Ambush" and I had to write to you and let you know how interesting I think it is. I requested to my Literature tearcher that we read more of your stories and maybe the class will actually pay attention instead of sleep. I think you are very talented and I wish I could write like you. I am interested in reading more of your books, thats another reason why I'm on your web page, to learn more about your books!. Well your story "Ambush id wonderful and i enjoyed it, actually I read it 3 times over cause i liked it so much.
Kimberly Skarzenski <LiQuiD524 @ aol.com>
Edison, NJ USA - Wednesday, October 21, 1998 at 15:46:18 (CDT)

Does Tim read these? Tim -- I also enjoyed your talk at Olssens in D.C. Thank you. You have a gift. I am a recent fan & have now read TomCat & Lake. From this vantage, I do not see you so much as a "Vietnam" writer, although I guess that is how you are generally viewed. I did not know TomCat was a "departure." I thought TomCat picked up right where Lake left off (the most important part of Lake -- the theme left out there on the water). You said in your talk that you think of yourself as a "love writer." I was excited to hear that, which is what I felt about your last two books (not having read the earlier ones, which are, I suspect, as much about love as about war). Somebody asked, in a hopeful tone, if you will return to a Vietnam theme after your "departure." I guess you could do that & still write about love, but I hope you continue to pursue that most difficult of subjects (far from mushy). You left a lot hanging in TomCat -- to me, the Vietnam and misogyny episodes in TomCat danced around the heart of the book -- can we have love? as we humans long to do, can we penetrate those "leaden walls that encase the human spirit?" Well, you have made me think (& feel) a lot through your books. So thanks. P.S. A great opening quote from "One Art." The more I read that poem, the less funny it gets -- almost as if Elizabeth Bishop is really saying the opposite: it is a disaster; you will never get used to it.
Gary Thompson <thompsong@howrey.com>
WDC, USA - Tuesday, October 20, 1998 at 21:31:46 (CDT)

I am reading "The Things they Carried" for a creative writing class and I loved it! I actually decided to do my literary analysis on it. It is great and I can't wait to read "Tomcat in love".
Lydia Thomas <sroffice@scougalrubber.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, October 20, 1998 at 12:09:57 (CDT)

Tim, I enjoyed your talk at Olsson's Book Store (in DC on October 19). I am now enjoying Tomcat in Love. Allow me to provide my personal feedback from that murky mass know as your readers: It seems to me that your "fiction" has much truth in it; it feels genuine. You too project much the same realness. Thank you for the honesty that you have crafted into your writing. Your writing leaves one better than it found one. Best Wishes to you and for all your future work, Jim Kendrall
Jim Kendrall <jimkendc@erols.com>
Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, October 20, 1998 at 12:05:32 (CDT)

I was turned on to Tim's writing by two brothers while playing in their band. After weeks of practice in the unnamed band, the two brothers decided Cacciato was to be the name, saying it was from a book about Vietnam and the human imagination. Upon hearing the full title of the work, I suggested "After Cacciato" was catchier and more mysterious. We now had our name. We recorded six songs, wrote many more, played gigs all over New York City, got a lawyer but failed to get signed. We broke up as I was finishing reading the novel we were named for. Since then I have read everything Tim has written, I believe, except for Northern Lights. (Hard to find, you know.) It's been a few years since the band broke up, and I just bought a few signed copies of Tomcat, and gave one to one of the brothers from After Cacciato. I missed the in-person signing, merely scoring the remaining unsold copies We are playing again, minus the other brother, who lives on the other edge of the country. Tim's work is brilliant, masterful, genius. It has helped me see differently and more accurately myself and the world. And others too, no doubt. And himself I hope. This is the highest achievement an artist can reach. Few can, Tim has. Beyond words.
Louis James <snglrty@earthlink.com>
New York, NY USA - Friday, October 16, 1998 at 01:38:23 (CDT)

Thanks for writing such brilliant fiction
Garrett Carroll <Celtsare1@aol.com>
Chelmsford, MA USA - Thursday, October 15, 1998 at 21:52:15 (CDT)

good books
Evan Margulies <EvanM@nbps.org>
USA - Thursday, October 15, 1998 at 11:30:02 (CDT)

Tim O'Brien's work "The Things They Carried" I am currently reading at LIU -C.W. Post Campus. His work is very intrguing. Moving to say the least. I have went camping several times in my life and you really take notice of what possessions you are taking, like for example the 10 ounce letter and the 2-3 canteens of water. From Neal Chakmakian
Neal Chakmakian <VSSIMT@AOL.COM>
VS, NY USA - Wednesday, October 14, 1998 at 11:02:08 (CDT)

I'm doing a research paper on Tim O'Brien that is due October 27. I'm pleased to find that there is information available about him on the internet.
Dana Bily <dbily@wvu.edu>
Morgantown, WV USA - Tuesday, October 13, 1998 at 07:38:49 (CDT)

I have just read The Things They Carried. I think it is excellent! I have spent time in the Marine Corps but not in Vietnam. I enjoy hearing the accounts of veterans and how they may have felt.
Eric Hall <erichall@qpetty.com>
Montrose, Il USA - Monday, October 12, 1998 at 17:59:25 (CDT)

A very nice site, just what I was looking for. I just finished reading "The Nuclear Age," and I read it because I liked "Tomcat in Love" so much that I didn't want it to end, I needed more Tim O'Brien. Both books were brilliant, I thought. He will be in DC for reading & signing of "Tomcat in Love" in about 2 weeks, so I am hoping to get my copy signed & also to give him a hug and possibly a kiss on his cheek!
Tetsuko Hirai <thirai2@worldbank.org>
Washington, DC USA - Thursday, October 08, 1998 at 15:17:32 (CDT)

I have just read Tim O'Brien's "The Things They Carried" for my English class. Now I am doing further inquiries on this amazing author. The World Wide Web and his home page has provided me with so much information and has kept me interested in his life. THANKS!
Angelica Cianni <kluless54@aol.com>
Prospect Park, NJ USA - Wednesday, October 07, 1998 at 15:00:41 (CDT)

You have a cool and informative sight...
Pat <patme@bigfoot.com>
LA USA - Tuesday, October 06, 1998 at 22:24:13 (CDT)

Right now I am reading "The Things They Carried" for one of my Lit classes. It is so good. I will be reading more of your books in the future. Thanks!
Jamie Marie Baughman <kuuipo9477@aol.com>
Iowa City, IA USA - Tuesday, October 06, 1998 at 20:20:21 (CDT)

Tim, I have been following and have thoroughly enjoyed your work since you were at the College of Wooster. Even though some say "Tomcat in Love" is not supposed to be a "chick's" favorite book, I could not put it down - favorite so far. Look forward to hearing about your thoughts on Chippering in DC this month.
A.L.
USA - Tuesday, October 06, 1998 at 11:53:59 (CDT)

Tim, never has a book moved me the way that "The Things They Carried" has, and it will be one of the few books that I re-read many times. I want to thank you for creating such a beautiful piece of writing.I am currently a student at DePaul University majoring in film, and once I step out into the world I hope that someday I can put your work on the screen.You have a level of talant that is rare, and your book has touched my heart in a way that I cannot begin to explain.
Margo Weitzman <mweitzman@shrike.depaul.edu>
Chicago, IL USA - Sunday, October 04, 1998 at 15:00:47 (CDT)

Tim, never has a book moved me the way that "The Things They Carried" has, and it will be one of the few books that I re-read many times. I want to thank you for creating such a beautiful piece of writing.I am currently a student at DePaul University majoring in film, and once I step out into the world I hope that someday I can put your work on the screen.You have a level of talant that is rare, and your book has touched my heart in a way that I cannot begin to explain. that I cannot begin to
Margo Weitzman <mweitzman@shrike.depaul.edu>
Chicago, IL USA - Sunday, October 04, 1998 at 15:00:09 (CDT)

Tim, Never has a book moved me the way that "The Things They Carried" has, and it will be one of the few books that I re-read many times. I want to thank you for creating such a beautiful piece of writing.I am currently a student at DePaul University majoring in film, and once I step out into the world I hope that someday I can put your work on the screen.You have a level of talant that is rare, and your book has touched my heart in a way that I cannot begin to explain. that I cannot begin to
Margo Weitzman <mweitzman@shrike.depaul.edu>
Chicago, IL USA - Sunday, October 04, 1998 at 14:59:18 (CDT)

I am a "Viet Nam wife", and just recently discovered Tim O'Brien's books. A very good author, and a fine speaker, too - just saw him in Pasadena. We need writers who can portray the "reality" of Viet Nam, for us who live it vicariously as wives or family members, and for the others who did not go or were not even born then.
Sue Peltier <srpeltier@eee.org>
Redlands, CA USA - Friday, October 02, 1998 at 02:53:57 (CDT)

My birthday is October 1st, too! Actually that's today! I went to a Tim O'Brien reading last week and was blown away. To be honest, I'd never heard of the guy before, but after the reading, I rushed out and bought Tomcat In Love, and checked out some of his older stuff at the library. What a writer! He's got a firm grasp of the English language, and I appreciate what he does with it!
Jonathan Shipley <jonathan6shipley@yahoo.com>
Renton, WA USA - Thursday, October 01, 1998 at 15:44:23 (CDT)

Tim, I was wondering if you know my Dads sister, Trish Marx? If you do read this could you e-mail me her e-mail address? I might come to New York this spring and would love to talk to her.
Nate Windschill <nwindsch@d.umn.edu>
MN USA -

I'm teaching a freshman reading course at Hofstra University and would like to know where I might send some student letters to Tim O'Brien. My students read "The Things They Carried" and have written to O'Brien about their feelings on the book. Thanks.
Jane LaForge <felixina@aol.com>
Astoria, NY USA - Monday, September 28, 1998 at 11:02:48 (CDT)

I just read "The Streak" in the Sept. 28, 1998 issue of the New Yorker magazine. Good story. Vic Taipale Btry C 3/82 Arty 196 LIB '69
Vic Taipale <taipale@tigernet.missouri.org>
St. James, MO USA - Thursday, September 24, 1998 at 20:46:07 (CDT)

TIM-Trying various ways to contact you. Would like to invite you to pay a visit to Monroe Community College in Rochester, NY-a return engagement of sorts-you were here in '91. Would like to do the whole community thing-draw people from the city as well as the school. Sometime in late October or early November would be great, or what ever works for your schedule. I can be contacted at the above E-mail address or by phone. H(716)442-2885, W(716)292-3274. Hope to hear from you. Great book-Tomcat in Love. I've got all of my students interested. I continue to assign to various classes The Things They Carried-it really turns students on to many things-not the least of which is what a good book is all about. Looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks, Doug Brooks.
Doug brooks <dbrooks@mccvm.is.monroecc.edu>
rochester, ny USA - Thursday, September 24, 1998 at 09:13:18 (CDT)

I am researching you and want to find reviews. please list something that is reviewing your short story Speaking of courage. thank you!
Kirsten <don't have one>
tulsa, ok USA - Wednesday, September 23, 1998 at 13:37:05 (CDT)

"In the lake of the woods" was one of the best books I have ever read. I started reading O'Brien in a vietnam class. My dad was a vet. Your fiction helped him talk about the war with me. Your work is one of the reasons i want to be a writer. Thank you Mr. O'Brien.
gary Parciak <c752345@showme.missouri.edu>
columbia, mo USA - Tuesday, September 22, 1998 at 19:58:01 (CDT)

Every now and then I take a look in my scrapbook at the newspaper we wrote in junior high. Do you remember... with you, myself, Bruce Meyer and Apryl Vance. Dick and I have followed your career and would like to talk to you. I have tried to find out your email address but there are a lot of Tim OBriens in the US. Hope you see this. Barb
Barb Griffith Bjornstad <barbbj@primenet.com>
Sierra Vista, AZ USA - Tuesday, September 22, 1998 at 01:07:25 (CDT)

were you in the 11th. inf. brigade? i was in e-troop ist. cav. lz bronco 1969 i would like to find more info on the 11th. many thanks if you could write back....
John DiCarlo <jrd11648>
rochester , n.y. USA - Monday, September 21, 1998 at 20:52:10 (CDT)

Dear Tim, As a junior at the University of Maine I have taken on the task of writting a novel. Your work is my "Bible" if you will. I want to create characters like Kiowa and Jimmy Cross. Not soldiers, but humans that will live on, despite time, for eternity. On the page, you give life to words, and that will continue to be my goal. I read "The Man I Killed" almost every night before I sleep. Your writing is magical and a gift. May your talent continue to touch others and inform future generations about that awful war, and teach us a little about the human spirit. Maybe one day, when the New York Times Book Review gets ahold of my novel, we can have lunch, and you could tell me a story, and we could talk baseball, and then you could read something of mine. I would like that. One day, maybe. Best of luck. Thank you.
jeff saucier <jeffrey.saucier@umit.maine.edu>
orono, me USA - Sunday, September 20, 1998 at 21:01:49 (CDT)

Dear Tim, I am starting to create a T O'B library with the thought that I might do your biography when I roll around to my PHD. I'll finish my MFA with the Alaska book in July; then I"ve won a really huge, six month, Rotary Fellowship for Tanzania for Sept, '99 (I'll have a guest room if you need or want a safari under your belt) followed by a month's Helene Wurlitzer one in Taos for late spring, year 2000 when I will be polishing (I hope) some of the connected stories from East Africa (which, if you remember, I know almost as well as you do Vietnam). "ll Street" has being winning everything but publication, except a tiny piece at a time. here and there. Still no agent trying (tho lots of their very real raves but sorry..."it won't sell") Alaska book more conventional, though with the usual Nilva raw moments (it's about the death of a 22 year old girl working a fishing trawler, summer of '87) so it might sing out to a publisher...we'll see. It's tough writing. The first novel (a NYC scam) sits in a drawer keeping the drawer from warping. In a few years I will be older than BOTH of the Delaney sisters (one of the poor gals already dead of 'old age'), and that's really good for Best Seller Lists and Hollywood. Oh, the Rotary looks as if it is breeding a Knight (as in Knight Ridder) Fellowship for 2000...maybe Figi...maybe Vietnam if I get deeper into the idea of an O'Brien biography...what do you think? Do you suppose he'd authorize it? More important, am I good enough to do it? Repeat: what do you think? Could you spare time for a line for my E, or must I shlep to Ct next week? I have a 'Tomcat' on order-hope it doesn't cause a rift with my fixed feline when she spots it on the READ NOW stack, where she likes to sit. M'best, Tim, and as always, thanks, sheila Stop smoking...we all need you.
Sheila Cole Nilva <sheilacole@aol.com>
easthampton&sag harbor, ny USA - Saturday, September 19, 1998 at 16:03:48 (CDT)

Dear Tim, I am starting to create a T O'B library with the thought that I might do your biography when I roll around to my PHD. I'll finish my MFA with the Alaska book in July; then I"ve won a really huge Rotary Fellowship for Tanzania for Sept, '99 followed by a month's Helene Wurlitzer one in Taos for the year 2000 when I will be polishing (I hope) some of the connected stories on East Africa. "ll Street" has being winning everything but publication, except a tiny piece at a time. Still no agent trying. Alaska book more conventional, though with the usual Nilva raw moments (it's about the death of a 22 year old girl working a fishing trawler, summer of '87) so it might sing out to a publisher...we'll see. It's tough writing. The first novel (a NYC scam) sits in a drawer keeping the drawer from warping. In a few years I will be older than both of the Delaney sisters, and that's really good for Best Seller Lists and Hollywood. Oh, the Rotary looks as if it is breeding a Knight (as in Knight Ridder) Fellowship for 2000...maybe Figi...maybe Vietnam if I get deeper into the idea of an O'Brien biography...what do you think? Do you think he'd authorize it? More important, am I good enough to do it? Repeat: what do you think? Could you spare time for a line for my E, or must I shlep to Ct? I have a 'Tomcat' on order-hope it doesn't cause a rift with my fixed feline when she spots it on the READ NOW stack. M'best, Tim, and as always, thanks, sheila
Sheila Cole Nilva <sheilacole@aol.com>
easthampton&sag harbor, ny USA - Saturday, September 19, 1998 at 15:51:23 (CDT)

I commend you on your book The Things They Carried. I Just finished reading such a deep book on Personal stories of Vietnam. I enjoy reading about the war and to tell you the truth a lot of books out there on personal non-fictional stories are somewhat false accounts. I only make that statement on reading and its only a judgement call. My uncle agrees. He served two tours as a captain in vietnam. I'd like to say I realize you don't want to be generalized as a Vietnam author, but keep up your good work and I'll keep on Reading. Jim Knight
Jim Knight <73667.3165@compuserve.com>
Merrimack, NH USA - Wednesday, September 16, 1998 at 19:48:36 (CDT)

My girlfriend bought me this book called "The Things They Carried" by an author unknown to me, Tim O'Brien. The book changed my thought's on Vietnam (eventhough my favorite movie is "Apocalypse Now"), writing, and about myself. Helping me realize the size of the rucksack I hump daily. I have recommended this book to everyone I meet.
Ben McVey <bhmcvey@aol.com>
New York, NY USA - Monday, September 14, 1998 at 11:51:09 (CDT)

So many wonderful things have already been said. You have a beautiful talent and an amazing way of writing. Your use of language is breath-taking. People have been blessed by your gift.
Melissa Salce <melisalce@hotmail.com>
Amherst, MA USA - Sunday, September 13, 1998 at 23:36:51 (CDT)

I've been assigning "True War Story" to my college students for a couple of years now; this semester they're reading In the Lake of the Woods. I often have students say these works help them understand their dad/uncle/etc better--My husband was in Vietnam, and it's taken me 30 years to accept the fact that the war *also* never ends for those who were left behind. That aside, from a strictly artistic point of view, O'Brien is one of our best contemporary writers, one to keep an eye on! Looking forward to reading Tomcat next.
Joan Kruger <jwrites @hotmail.com>
Sacramento, CA USA - Thursday, September 10, 1998 at 09:41:19 (CDT)

Tim O'Brien's book "The Thing's They Carried" is a book that changed my outlook at the Vietnam War. I had heard stories, and seen movies; however that book hit a nerve. I loved the structure, and description. I can't listen to "Lemon Tree" by Peter, Paul, and Mary without thinking about Curt Lemon's death. This is definately a book everyone should read!!!
Jessi Ditterline <Jditterline@loyola.edu>
Baltimore, SC USA - Wednesday, September 09, 1998 at 17:39:51 (CDT)

Tim O'Brien's book "The Thing's They Carried" is a book that changed my outlook at the Vietnam War. I had heard stories, and seen movies; however that book hit a nerve. I loved the structure, and description. I can't listen to Lemon Tree by Peter, Paul, and Mary without thinking about Curt Lemon's death. This is definately a book everyone should read!!!
Jessi Ditterline <Jditterline@loyola.edu>
Baltimore, SC USA - Wednesday, September 09, 1998 at 17:33:03 (CDT)

i am writing a dissertation for my BA in communications on the work of tim o'brien
keef miles <couples@btinternet.com.>
wiltshire, uk - Sunday, September 06, 1998 at 09:41:14 (CDT)

Who is Tim O'brien. With glasses he kinsd of looks like David Lettermen.
Brett Baxter
Clearwater, Sweden - Thursday, September 03, 1998 at 18:28:27 (CDT)

As a Vietnam Veteran (QuiNhon, 67-68) and a teacher, I have no better resource than "The Things They Carried". It has something that affects everyone. I also frequent the Joiner Center at U-Mass.
Al Flynn <aflynn@massed.net>
Hanson, MA USA - Thursday, September 03, 1998 at 17:59:36 (CDT)

Appreciate your writing and enjoyed the feature about you in yesterday's NYT Arts section. Share your angst with small town Minnesota and your favor with Mystic Lake. But what's with the baseball hat? Trouble with the lights? Who cares about my query, you probably do read these anyway.
James Richard <jjr22@columbia.edu>
New York, NY USA - Thursday, September 03, 1998 at 10:02:46 (CDT)

Sixty pages into Tomcat in Love and I am having trouble putting it down--a good thing, I think! Tomcat is wickedly funny, at times seemlingly insanely so. My genuine worries about O'Brien's mental well being after Lake of the Woods and his NY Times Magazine piece on his return to Vietnam, seem unfounded now. I can only marvel at his protagonists' continuing struggle to exist happily in a universe fraught with ever-present dangers to keep us down. But Thomas H. Chippering will have none of it. This is a wonderful read! Hooray for Tomcat--and Tim O'Brien!
Gary C. Huested <huesteds@iu.net>
Palm Bay, FL USA - Sunday, August 30, 1998 at 10:43:30 (CDT)

The novel, The Nuclear Age, has both disturbed me and excited me. I am almost to the point now where I want to hold a sign in my cafe here in college that says "the Bombs are real."
Bill Skar <wskar@culver.com>
Canton, MO USA - Thursday, August 27, 1998 at 21:06:28 (CDT)

"In the Lake of the Woods", hands down, one of the greatest books I have ever read. I couldn't put it down. It was fascinating! I can't wait to read "Tomcat in Love".
Eddie Roaten <1Edro@msn.com>
Bedford, TX USA - Thursday, August 27, 1998 at 13:03:45 (CDT)

I liked the book "In the lake of the woods". I have just finished reading it for the first time and have started reading it for the second time. But have not decided what happend to Kathy. When I first read it I was undecided most of the time. I then found reason to believe that she simply left John, but now that I am reading it a second time, I am undecided as to whether she was killed by John or she just left. If anyone has any input on this topic could they please mail me with your opinions and reasons. my address is l_harrop@branch.net.au
Luke Harrop <l_harrop@branch.net.au>
Swan HIll, Vic Australia - Wednesday, August 26, 1998 at 03:54:28 (CDT)

Tim, We had to read your "True War Story" in college class. I laughed the whole time we were reading it because I was in the Nam from 66-68 I Corps USMC. Chu Lai and Da Nang. I really thought your story was how it was in the Nam. Your bro The Bear Kwu Kak Nupkus
Roger Shourds <RShourds.AOL.com>
Norwich, CT USA - Tuesday, August 25, 1998 at 18:14:25 (CDT)

Tim, I have enjoyed your prose for years. While in college at Mankato State I had the priveledge of not only meeting you but hearing you read your own words. This experience has pushed me to explore my own thoughts and ideas in the written form. I learned sometime ago that you were also a debater while in college at Macalester. I am the director of debate at Blomington Jefferson High School here in Minnesota. We have a common friend as well. The person I am taking over for, Norm Leistikow, is married to one of your former Maclaester Classmate's, Martha (Marty) Bachelor. Keep up the go work and I look forward to reading Tomcat In Love.
Christopher McDonald <cmcdonald@wavetech.net>
Andover, MN USA - Saturday, August 22, 1998 at 18:48:41 (CDT)

Can't wait to read the new book and am glad Tim is writing again.
Scott Haugh <Haugh.4@nd.edu>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Sunday, August 16, 1998 at 10:40:54 (CDT)

I am a supporter of the Vietnam Veterans of America: I would like to say WELCOME HOME AND THANKS TO ALL: A friend who cares, Sandra ps. would like to hear from anyone.
sandra k. boozer <redvette@network-one.com>
smithville, ms USA - Saturday, August 15, 1998 at 17:54:02 (CDT)

I first posted Tim's "How To Tell A True War Story" to my web site about three years ago and have re-read it many times for its quintessential nature. Having just seen the film "Saving Private Ryan" last night, I needed to re-read "How To..." again to help analyze what I had just seen. Tim's works are dear to my heart.
Jon LeBlanc <leblancj@cuug.ab.ca>
Calgary, AB Canada - Friday, August 07, 1998 at 14:42:01 (CDT)

Dear Tim, put your e-mail address on my e-mail so I can tell you a wild crazy story about DON'T TRY IT ON ELEVENTH STREET...meanwhile and always, thanks a kazillion for all. sheila oh, i 'did' chenango this summer to work again with reg mcknight; you would like it there if you ever do that again...it is small and grand. good luck in SF.
sheila cole nilva <sheilacole@aol.com>
east hampton, ny USA - Wednesday, August 05, 1998 at 20:57:01 (CDT)

"In the Lake of the Woods" was a memorable and fascinating book. I also enjoyed "The Nuclear Age". I look forward to future work.
Paul Howe <pdhowe@cruzio.com>
Santa Cruz, CA USA - Monday, August 03, 1998 at 21:51:17 (CDT)

After reading "The Nuclear Age" and "In the Lake of the Woods," I have become a fan of Tim O'Brien's work. My question to Tim is this: What do you feel your literary work has contributed to your life, views, philosophy, etc.?
Matt Walter <johnnywalt@aol.com>
Oak Forest, IL USA - Friday, July 31, 1998 at 15:55:50 (CDT)

Tim, Your book came highly recommended during a writing seminar I attended recently. I couldn't put it down -- and will definitely use it as part of my senior history seminar this fall. I need to know one thing: is John Wade modeled after an actual person? I am a Vietnam era vet, but never served in Vietnam. Several of my friends did, and much of what you describe rings true in many first hand accounts I have heard.
Tony Buccelli <tonyb@mhv.net>
Poughkeepsie, NY USA - Saturday, July 25, 1998 at 17:02:41 (CDT)

Testing the guest book
Marilyn
USA - Friday, July 24, 1998 at 09:37:15 (CDT)

Tim O'Brien Seven years since We heard you read What is one plus two? You, me, and Philip G. Two types of people, those who lift and those who lean. You had to catch a plane leaving Wilmington and the mystery was which one you'd been...
Katawba
USA - Thursday, July 16, 1998 at 15:13:01 (CDT)

My supervising teacher during my student teaching raved about THE THINGS THEY CARRIED to her students; I read it and have been shoving it in students', friends', and family's hands ever since. I've found that everyone who reads the book is taken in, taught an immense deal, and changed. I've endured my share of reading lists and proscribed curriculums in my vocation as an English teacher, and although my opportunity to use Tim's material is limited, reading/teaching it invigorates me, motivates me to keep teaching. I'm grateful that his work is around so students believe me when I say, "Literature and writing connects you to the heartbeat of human experience." Thank you, Tim. Your work has opened the hearts and minds of so many teenagers who never knew they could care about a book or that their stories must matter too.
Kirsten Vaage <kvaage@aol.com>
Bloomington, MN USA - Tuesday, July 14, 1998 at 19:58:48 (CDT)

I am an assistant professor of American Literature at Kobe City Univ. of Foreign Studies, Japan. I was greatly impressed by "The Things They Carried" when I read it for the first time in 1992. I have been to Vietnam more than ten times since then. Now I am married to a Vietnamese whose village in South Viennam was completely destroyed by an American air raid in 1972. Vietnam has greatly changed these days, especially after the recovery of the relationship with the USA. What is difficult for me to understand is that Vietnamese people, including my husband, do not seem to have hostility against Americans, appearing to have forgot the tragedy in the wartime. This summer, I am going to write a paper about "The Things They Carried," about significance of telling war stories. I wish that all Asians and other people in the world do not deliberately forget dark sides of history but keep telling "their" stories in order for the younger generation not to repeat the same tragedy.
Miki Shinoda <miki-10@indigo.plala.or.jp>
Kobe, Japan - Saturday, July 11, 1998 at 08:30:20 (CDT)

Good Work.
Tom Wetzler <tomwetz@yahoo.com>
San Antonio, Tx USA - Friday, July 10, 1998 at 15:37:45 (CDT)

My dearest Mr.O'Brien: I must tell that your book The Things They Carried Is a wonderful and very informative book.I have been Married to a Vietnam Vet for 28 years .He says very little about the war but this book of yours has made me see a lot of what has been bothering him over the many years that we have been together.Thank you for the great book,I look forward to reading the rest of them in the very near future.Sue Schraeder
Sue Schraeder <reddevil@cyberbeach.net>
Espanola, Ont Canada - Sunday, July 05, 1998 at 22:15:17 (CDT)

I'm a great fan of Tim O'Brien's, and have read all of his books. But it occurs to me to ask: Does he really have anything to do with this web site? Does he actually read these messages?
John Hayes <jchprofhum@hotmail.com>
Naples, Fl USA - Friday, July 03, 1998 at 11:28:27 (CDT)

I very much enjoyed the things they carried, and I'm now reading Going after Cacciato, wich is so far vey good, but strange.
Kevin Emilio <kemilio@tiger,acsu.k12.vt.us>
Middlebury, VT USA - Monday, June 29, 1998 at 09:07:06 (CDT)

I enjoyed your site very much. I am in search of a publisher who specializes Vietnam, or a literary agent that might represent me. If you can give me any direction I would appreciate it. Please continue with the work you do and always remain strong to your convictions...thanks again...jim
Jim Chancellor <jimchancellor@niia.net>
Hobart, IN USA - Sunday, June 28, 1998 at 10:42:58 (CDT)

Mr. O'brien, i have got to tell you how much your books mean to me...let me start off by saying I am the son of a Vietnam vet who was station as a corpsman for the marines in Chu Li. He arrived in country at the end of 68 and in his tour he recieved two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Staras well as countless other medals i to this day have no idea of what they stand for...He is a Vet that to this day never speaks of what happened there. I never understood why until reading "the things they carry" and i"if i die in a combat zone" your work has really hit home as to what my father had to go through and is still going through, I love my dad and more than life itself and the horrors he endured in country and at home after must have been terrible, after reading "If I Die In A Combat Zone" I somewhat understood his pain but i know that i will never be able to fully comprehend it. If you ever do a reading in orange county cali i am sure i will be there...thank you for your wonderful works of true art...and thank you for letting me get to know my dad better.
Gustave Mohler <Gusman77@hotmail.com>
Westminster, Ca USA - Thursday, June 25, 1998 at 07:06:28 (CDT)

Dear Mr. O'Brien: This is now the third time I have taught your novel, In the Lake of the Woods" to my Adult Ed, English students. Since I grew up in Minnesota, I can visualize Baudette and the Lake of the Woods. I know how remote and vast that country is and how people can become lost up there. Also, like Kathy, I was a Freshman at the University of Minnesota in 1966. Like Kathy, Vietnam seemed very removed from the campus of the U of M. Vietnam was a place you did not want your boyfriends or husbands to be sent to, but you never really understood the depth of why, only that it was far away and many never came home. When you live in Minneapolis and have never experienced atrocities such as My Lai, you have no idea of the psychological impact it permanently makes on lives. There was no way that Kathy could possibly have understood John's past, or that she could have helped him to come to some kind of peace with it. Now, some thirty years later I have an inkling of understanding some of the horror of that war thanks "In the Lake of the Woods" and "The Things They Carried". The reason I teach "In the Lake of the Woods" is so that hopefully the upcoming generation will be wiser than we were. Sincerely, Yvonne
Yvonne Howard <lhoward@turbont.net>
Claremont, , NH USA - Tuesday, June 23, 1998 at 14:58:49 (CDT)

Your books are great!Read most of them. I was with A/5/46.3rd PLT. 8/70-4/71.On my third tour of Vietnam. SSG. also known as "Spanky" Keep up the good work.The best to you.Paul
Paul Spangler <PSpang5189@aol.com>
Homewood, AL USA - Saturday, June 20, 1998 at 12:21:11 (CDT)

Dear Tim, love your work - recently read " the things they carried ". I am a final year communication student studying in England and am seriously considering basing my dissertation on your work. I would appreciate any suggestions as to how I can approach this particularly in respect of defamiliarisation/post-modernism/questions about narrative. Also any criticism that may be useful. I need to submit the title of the dissertation by the end of June. I thank you in anticipation, Keef
Keef Miles <couples@btinternet.com>
Wiltshire, england - Friday, June 19, 1998 at 13:53:44 (CDT)

Tim: My bookclub discussed In the Lake of the Woods tonight and those who showed up loved it. Interestingly, as the group described themselves backing away from the text during the sections on My Lai and Viet Nam in general. We found this act of disassociating during the reading process interesting given how the narrator describes Wade reacting to the massacre. When it comes to My Lai and Vietnam in general, there seems to be a little bit of Wade in a lot of us. By the way, you have met a friend of mine, Bob Rini, a couple years back at a Summer's writers workshop in Tennessee (or was it Kentucky). Are you still in contact with him? Hopefully we can all get together the next time your in the Seattle/Portland area. Kurt Kessinger (aka Oliver Twisted)
Kurt Kessinger <kessing@teleport.com>
Portland, or USA - Thursday, June 18, 1998 at 23:30:21 (CDT)

great book!!
Randy Moore <RMoore1653@aol.com>
Arlington, VA USA - Tuesday, June 16, 1998 at 22:57:20 (CDT)

"The Things They Carried," is a wonderful account of how people thought and acted to stay alive..survive/cope. I am also a US Army veteran, 1962-1965, and working on a re- search project reference to P.T.S.D., and, if YOU or anyone reading this message posted, and would be willing to be in- terviewed concerning their suffering from P.T.S.D., I would be so grateful for the opportunity to interview them.
Randy Moore <RMoore1653@aol.com>
Arlington, VA USA - Tuesday, June 16, 1998 at 22:56:42 (CDT)

Tim--"The Things They Carried," is almost pure fact...not fiction! I was in the U.S.Army, July '62-June'65, and al- though not having to go over to Vietnam like my other buddies who reenlisted, I feel so blessed not having to. But, since I have been living with this guilt for so long, a little over 18 months ago, myself, and my colleague, Dr. Shiraev, Professor of Psychology, are doing a study/research project on P.T.S.D.(Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), and like myself, a retired D.C. Police Officer, with almost 26 years of service, believe that I have problems associated with P.T.S.D., and so, I want to help, in some small way. If you, or anyone who reads this or any other messages here in your guestbook, would be willing to talk with me or my colleague, Dr. Shiraev, in reference to our research pro- ject, I would be ever so grateful. Please feel free to contact me via e-mail, or Dr. Shiraev's e-mail address: "shiraev@cqi.com"
Randy Moore <RMoore1653@aol.com>
Arlington, VA USA - Tuesday, June 16, 1998 at 22:52:46 (CDT)

In 68 I was 28. I am not a cambat veteran! I have read several of your very well written books or shouls I say I have heard them on tape. It is hard to read with tears in your eyes. Places that I have visited between Aug-67 and Apr-69, Plantation airfield at Long Bihn Viet Nam, "Rember the Tet Celebtation of '68?" Bear Cat. Oh yes, I was at Dong Tam, you rember the transfer point for the many people who were returned as cargo the the U.S.A. No, I am not a cambat veteran, or so they tell me NOW! No I am not a combat veteran! I was just a visitor of a place called Viet Nam. I was called a F.N.G. and rode in the "Passenger" compartment of a "Freedom Bird" back to the "World." But still I am not a Combat Veteran. What I am told now is that I am a Viet Nam "Era" veteran. Believe me, it was a hell of an "Error." But what the hell I survived, or did I?
Harry Gunning <hairy_o@yahoo.com>
Tucson, AZzaz USA - Tuesday, June 16, 1998 at 12:14:24 (CDT)

Mr. O'Brien, you are a beautiful writer. I picked up "In the Lake of the Woods" for 50 cents at the Brooklyn Public Library, thinking, what the hell, I've never heard of him, but it sounds like an interesting book. That chance purchase ended up being one of the best books I've ever read. Your book is a great literary and cultural accomplishment. I teach 6th graders, and can only wish now that I taught older kids so that I could assign your book. At any rate, you are high on my list for future reads. And I mean to find out why some idiot took your book out of circulation at the library.
Cheryl Wheeler <cheryl.wheeler@mcione.com>
NYC, USA - Thursday, May 28, 1998 at 20:53:00 (CDT)

Hello,Tim.Mr. O'Brien?Forgive me, I never could grasp formalities.I recently read The Things They Carried as required reading in my High School History class.I'll leave the book to praise itself and try to keep this relatively short.I am now involved in an open ended research project concerning the Vietnam War and America's reasons for involvement.Seeming as I've had a terribly hard time trying to conversate with books,and this is obviosly an area you've lived and studied(I'm assuming here), I was wondering if you could spare some feedback?A response would be greatly appreciated, and a lack of such greatly understood.
Ricky Rohlfing <rgr@best.com>
San Jose, CA USA - Tuesday, May 26, 1998 at 02:45:00 (CDT)

Hello, Tim. I have been reading your stories for a few years; they lend themselves well to critical essays, which are the necessary product of my education. Going After Cacciato has been my subject more than once, and other of your stories provide background and texture. I have found it intriguing that you work in such a variety of genres. Which, of the different kinds of writing that you do, is your favorite? I'll post this, but I would be pleasantly surprised if it were answered.
Michelle Wylie <wyli1857@tao.sou.edu>
Ashland, OR USA - Thursday, May 21, 1998 at 17:22:58 (CDT)

Mr. O'Brien- I have just finished reading your novel The Things They Carried. I have also read In the Lake of the Woods. I really enjoy your writing style, and I feel that you give insight into how terrible it must have been to fight in teh Vietnam War. (I am only 18). I look forward to reading the rest of your works. Sincerely, Liz Butzer
Liz Butzer <lizb@cedar.net>
Delafield, WI USA - Monday, May 18, 1998 at 21:26:07 (CDT)

Tim, I just recently became interested in your work through my English teacher. I enjoy it very much. I just recently finished Going After Cacciato, and thought it very intreging. Keep up the good work.
Steve Cronin
Cincinnati, OH USA - Wednesday, May 13, 1998 at 18:02:18 (CDT)

Howdy Tim! I see that you grew up in Worthington, MN and now live in New York City, I was wondering if you know anybody by the name of John Windschill, or Trish Marx that grew up with you in Worthington? My dad, John, said he knew your brother and used to go golfing with him. Trish lives in New York right now also and mabey you know her better? Please write me back if you have read this. Thanks
Nate Windschill <nwindsch@d.umn.edu>
Maple Grove, MN USA - Wednesday, May 13, 1998 at 13:02:30 (CDT)

We are currently studying the Vietnam War and reading your works. We really like them. They make the war seem real to us, more than just reading our history books. Thank you. Leynn Meyncke, Jason Gonzalez, Danielle Burket, & Lisa Ellison
American Studies #3 <netusa/jayhowk.netusa.com>
Tipton, IN USA - Tuesday, May 12, 1998 at 10:01:55 (CDT)

We've read quite a few of your works and found them very good and interesting. Wish you lots of luck in your future writings.
THS American Studies #1
Tipton, IN USA - Tuesday, May 12, 1998 at 09:55:09 (CDT)

Dear Mr O'Brien I have read nearly all your books myself and have subsequently become very interested in what happened in Vietnam. Being English I don't know a lot about the war but "The Things they Carried" and "If I die in a Combat Zone" made a great impression on me... The sentiments are so real and influential .. thank you
I.B. Beaton <p97811@edu.essec.fr>
Paris, France - Tuesday, May 12, 1998 at 09:46:20 (CDT)

Yo! I thought that If I Die in a Combat Zone was an excellant piece of American Literature. It was OUTSTANDING!
Rob Dogg
USA - Monday, May 11, 1998 at 19:02:28 (CDT)

Tim, jsut visiting the site for a little more info. I am an English teacher in Australia and In The Lake of the Woods is our set text for final year. Erasing the past is such wonderful "trick" are you the Sorcerer? Where do the mirrors in your head take you? Would love to chat.
Dan Lewis <dlewis@staggs.schnet.edu.au>
Sale, VIC Australia - Monday, May 11, 1998 at 03:16:42 (CDT)

Dear Tim O'Brien. I'm having the pleasure of writing (or trying to write!) my dissertation on the subject of ... well - how would one put it... - let's say : some of the things that you've dealt with in your writing. The 'universe' that you present and the way you chose to do so are something quite special indeed. It's great to be your reader!! Take care - Anja.
anja johansen <eng.studvejl@engelsk.ku.dk>
copenhagen, denmark - Thursday, May 07, 1998 at 09:18:10 (CDT)

Dear Mr. O'Brien, I have read and re-read "The things they Carried" and it is such a wonderful work of writing. My mother's boyfriend, after she divorced my father was in the 173rd. He died of unknown causes in'73 the day before his son (my half-brother) was born. He was in the county jail for check fraud. your book has helped me to understand so much about him and my father(who avoided the draft by professing homosexuality). what I have come to know is that the more I study about the war, the less I am able to make any judgement about anything that happened. I myself am a veteran of the Gulf War, and I know of only one thing---the universal evil of war. thank you for your writing, both subject and style. I am a sometimes poet who loves everything literary and your words are gold. I hope to teach them in my English classes in the near future.
justin evans <evansd@student.suu.edu>
Cedar city, Ut USA - Tuesday, May 05, 1998 at 14:45:37 (CDT)

I read "Going after C" when I was a teenager, was very moved by it, and it's a book that I have kept on thinking about ever since. So, I was just poking around the net to see if it was in print and available in the UK, and I came across this site. I don't suppose you get time to read all these messages, but I thought I'd take the time to say "thank you", for writing it. Hope I find a copy. I'm looking forward to reading it again, 15 years on!
Austen Naughten <anaughten@oxfam.org.uk>
Oxford, UK - Tuesday, May 05, 1998 at 09:25:47 (CDT)

I never expected to discover a writer like you in a legal writing class. I often think discovering your works was the only worthwhile thing to come out of my three years of misery in Cambridge. You must have had a better experience at Harvard than I did to be still living there. I remember reading your 1994 article in the NYTimes Magazine and laughing (at myself) because I had thought that I was the only miserable person in Cambridge that year. I hope things are better now. I higly recommend leaving Cambridge.
Amy Silliman <silliman@millernash.com>
Portland, OR USA - Sunday, May 03, 1998 at 15:02:34 (CDT)

Dear Mr. O'Brien: I was a political science major in college, concentrating on international politics. One of the courses I took was entitled America & the Vietnam Experience. It was an excellent course which covered a subject that had always held my attention. You were one of the authors my professor highly recommended and I can see why. I cannot wait to read the rest of your books. Keep up the fine writing.
T. Christian McGreevy <cmcgreevy@foxsports.net>
West New York, NJ USA - Wednesday, April 29, 1998 at 11:50:20 (CDT)

I would love to recieve any comments on the types of violence in "How To Tell a True War Story". I am in the process of contrasting the types of violence in similar settings. Thank you!!!!!
karen <bucky49w@aol.com>
ft.worth, tx USA - Tuesday, April 28, 1998 at 21:50:53 (CDT)

I was with the 2nd Battalion twenty sixth marines in Vietnam. I went home in oct 68. At the time my battalion was on the Special Landing team and after I left they went on operation MEADE RIVER. I have heard it was the biggest amphibious landing of the war. There were seven marine battalions and I think the AMERICAL was also part of it. I think they were in and around the BATANGAN PENINSULA. I know you have mentioned this area. I have been going to UMASS BOSTON for the last two years and I almost went to the workshop at last summer. I understand you have been involved in this program. Maybe you will give me a call. I was a radioman. Did you ever carry the old PRC 25? I'm writing about KHE SANH and the underground bullshit net we radiomen used to fool around with at night. It is kind of funny when I think of it. We used to have to worry about getting caught using the radio as it was unauthorized. Like we wer going to give away some clasified info. Imagine all the words that have gone out on the radio. I guess you might even call it a literary meduim or something such. I mean think of all the millions of silly words that went out during all that insanity. Of course as you know many of the words not so silly. I say again. Give me a call.
eric smith <S8969@aol.com>
Revere , MA USA - Monday, April 27, 1998 at 23:09:30 (CDT)

Dear Mr. O'Brien, I have recently read "The things they carried." Unfortunately it was the only book of yours that is available to me at this time. i have read other books that contain vietnam material, and no other author has touched my the way your work has. Recently in my Vietnam class ( i am currently a senior at Culver Military Academy) Robert Timberg attended to have a discussion. I am curious if you have read his book "the nightingale's song" or something like that. How does his writing compare to yours, in your opinion? and i have another question, if you could, i would like to speak with you. i know that it is a little absurd, but i have a reason. all of my uncles have been in vietnam, and i have spoken with many vietnam vets, but from your work that i have read, you seem to be the most interresting. a far stretch would be if you could come to my vietnam class sometime between now and may 23. well if any of this sounds appealing i would like to hear from you. Thanks, Nate VanPelt
Nate VanPelt <vanpeln@culver1.culver.pvt.k12.in.us>
culver, in USA - Thursday, April 23, 1998 at 20:32:38 (CDT)

Dear Tim, I'm a fan! My most recent read was In the Lake of the Woods! Incredible concept! I recommended it for a book group I'm leading. I was wondering if you wouldn't mind reading a book I've written about Vietnam. I'm a female, twenty-eight, my dad was in Vietnam in '67-'68. I have a lot of respect for your work and for the Vets and would be honored to have your input. Please E-mail me if you can. Deena Whennen
Deena Whennen <whennen@rohan.sdsu.edu>
Del Mar, CA USA - Wednesday, April 22, 1998 at 15:34:17 (CDT)

I am reading one of your books in English, very impressive!!! I look forward to finding more of your publishings. Sincerely Brandi
Brandi Kirk <dabigbadbiff@hotmail.com>
Campton, NH USA - Wednesday, April 22, 1998 at 10:13:11 (CDT)

For your body of work - a profound thankyou. I will never see "truth" in quite the same way again. Even if you never again put pen to paper , know that you have influenced generations of readers and thinkers. But I must selfishly hope that you have not gone "to the bottom of the well" and that I will once again experience that unmatched sense of anticipation w I feel just before I open the cover of a work I know will move me intellectually and emotionally and become part of the way I see the world. I am not a veteran, I am not even an American, but I won't ever forget the profound feelings your words engendered in me . Thankyou.
Linda Pittaway <Lpitt@the-wire.com>
Toronto, On Canada - Monday, April 20, 1998 at 21:17:14 (CDT)

As a student of history and human nature--I find Tim's work something more than skilfully told stories. As a baby boomer, I often wonder if the entire Vietnam era is a big chapter in somebody elses work. I suffered many great losses to that page in history and shall always question the whole caper. Tim's work suggests that indeed I am not alone in my warped perspective of the "military manner of life and death" Keep it up tim--perhaps someday a future leader will read and catch on.
Larry Grindstaff <Natanka@aol.com>
Johnson City, TN USA - Sunday, April 19, 1998 at 14:47:40 (CDT)

I think that you are a reallty wonderful author and I have read almost all of your works.
Erica-May M. Wilkinson <gilmore@tiac.com>
Harvard, MA USA - Friday, April 17, 1998 at 07:19:55 (CDT)

There aren't many people who know where LZ Gator was. It was good visiting with you at the My Lai conference at Tulane in New Orleans a few years back. I don't run across too many Americal Veterans. Keep up the good work man. The TOC & Co. E, 5/46, 198 LIB 1969 Mui Batangan. What memories!
John H. Forshag <B4shag@juno.com>
Luling, LA USA - Tuesday, April 14, 1998 at 20:08:03 (CDT)

Mr. O'Brien, I am not associated with the army or any type of military force at all...but I had to read your story "The Things They Carried" for English and I have to say that it was amazing! I have never been so moved by a literary work in my life...I really felt as if I was there a solider just like you...I have to tell you that one often doesn't understand the concept of war until being "thrown into it". I now understand just how war really does devastate....I was born in 1978..so I have been lucky as to not have to had that experience of war...and I hope that I never will...but one thing I do know is that you not only touch the hearts of veterans and people of the forces but you touch the people who are not involved in the forces like me...just your average college student who had to read the story for English....
Ashley Bell <abell@longwood.lwc.edu>
Farmville, Va USA - Monday, April 13, 1998 at 20:43:52 (CDT)

Just dropping a note to let you know that "How to Tell a True War" story hit home. As a Persian Gulf vet, I saw the story a bit differently than most of the other students in my English class, but that's to be expected. Thanks for touching me through your writing.
Shane A. Huntsman <JetJoker@sprintmail.com>
Tampa, FL USA - Saturday, April 11, 1998 at 06:09:43 (CDT)

Mr. O'Brien, I am a first class cadet at the USAF Academy and currently enrolled in an English class focusing on the Vietnam War and its aftermath. We have read several of your works and I have found them to be invaluble. Your works are a reality check for anyone about to enter the profession of arms. It would be truly amazing for you to share your experiences and insights with the Cadet Wing. Our nation would be better off if you did. V/R Marc Lewis
Marc Lewis <Lewismt98.cs35@usafa.af.mil>
USAFA, CO USA - Saturday, April 11, 1998 at 01:31:58 (CDT)

This is a fantastic page dedicated to an amazingly brilliant author. "The Things They Carried" was, and still is, so meaningful to me. I go back to it time and again as an example of true, emotional, unsentimental writing. I use it as inspiration, as an example of what I should be doing. Keep up the good work, Mr. O'Brien. Your work truly touches us...
Diana Marsh <guineverem@aol.com>
Topeka, Ks USA - Thursday, April 09, 1998 at 19:30:22 (CDT)

Just to say that have been using 'The Things They Carried' as part of my iindependent study on Vietnam Veteran Combat narratives and have found it both interesting and refreshing. I used it as a key text in my chapter which discussed 'sense'making' narratives. Your text is so versatile that i know of many students on my course that have used it. Just thought i'd let you know. Dan
Daniel Robinson <jr287@student.open.ac.uk>
Liverpool, United Kingdom - Tuesday, April 07, 1998 at 06:15:02 (CDT)

Mr. O'Brien, My english recently read your story, "On the Rainy River." My next task is to write a ten page paper in which I address the Vietnam war with affiliation with your story. Please e-mail me, (Or if anyone else has done a similar paper please e-mail me) and give me your thoughts about a possible outline. Also I am also interested in what you were thinking when you wrote about "Tim's" escape from the war, then the realization to stop running and go fight. Please respond soon! Thank you, and I appreciate your time for response. Sincerely John Hammond ( Fairfield University )
John Hammond <1_jhammond@fair1.fairfield.edu>
Faifield, CT USA - Sunday, April 05, 1998 at 18:39:03 (CDT)

Mr. O'Brien, I have just finished reading, The Things They Carried.This is an incredible book. You have quite a talent for reaching the reader on an emotional level. I found myself in tears, and chuckles in several areas in the book. I do have a question for you. Is there anywhere to find interviews with you about your writing? I'm writing a paper and I'm having some trouble finding sources. Thank-you for producing such influential material!
Marissa Jacquay <majacqua@indiana.edu>
Bloomington, IN USA - Saturday, April 04, 1998 at 11:04:06 (CST)

Hello Tim Idont know if you remember me.Imet you at St. Norberts College in DePere Wisconsin.I had the leather jacket with all the patches on it.I dont know if you will get this or not if you do please e-mail me at vietway@newnorthnet.net Remember the death march that night? Semper Fi Wayne
Wayne Pierret <vietway@newnorthnet.net>
Laona, Wi. USA - Saturday, April 04, 1998 at 00:56:35 (CST)

My English teacher decided to try reading "Going After Cacciato" with my class. It was one of the most amazing experiences in my life. The book is profound and kept my class talking for about a month. We read from chapter to chapter and read, not only with our minds, but also with our hearts. I am only sixteen and have never really learned about the Vietnam War, yet, your book inspired me to learn more about what happened during what seems like such a dark period in U.S. and world history. Thank you.
Kyna O'Neill
Salt Lake City, UT USA - Thursday, April 02, 1998 at 23:01:00 (CST)

Dear Mr. O'Brian, Greetings. I am a student at Red Wing High School and we are reading your book, The Things They Carried, in our American Literature class. I would like to congratulate you on writing such an exquisite novel, I see things in an entirely different perspective now. Thank you for touching a place deep down in my soul that I didn't know exsisted. Perhaps you could e-mail me a little something that I could share with my class? We had to write a journal on the character of Mary Anne Bell, and I wrote about how she was symbolic of the war itself. Innocent and playful and first and then slowing changing to become its dangerous and true (or maybe not so true) nature! You might not be all that interested but, if you would like, I could e-mail you my journal. I guess that I would just like to close by saying that I really admire you. Not only for your extrodinary talents as an author and a story teller but also for surving the war. Thank you for your time. Sincerly and with highest regards Cari L. Wiberg
Cari Wiberg <foxfire782@aol.com>
Red Wing, MN USA - Wednesday, April 01, 1998 at 21:40:29 (CST)

Hello Mr . O'brien I am a 18 year old high school student and I just want to tell you how much I love your work. I have read every thing I can find of yours. Every time the topic of books comes up in any my conversations I can't stop praising your work. I am not sure if you read these but If you do would you just send me a email saying you did. It would be nice to know that I made contact with someone who sort of changed my life. I used to never read......ever. but I randomly picked up The Things They Carried at the libary and now I can't stop reading. I don't know but that book set off a thirst for knowlege. I read that book and saw what I was missing. Thank You, Chris
Chris <CityGent33@aol.com>
Vista, Ca USA - Monday, March 30, 1998 at 18:55:55 (CST)

The vividness and complexity amazes me. Your awesome!!!
Dennis <Aerosoccer@aol.com>
Bolingbrook, IL USA - Thursday, March 26, 1998 at 22:52:38 (CST)

I am a senior undergraduate student and an English major at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and am currently writing an honors thesis on Vietnam War poetry. My research focuses on Yusef Komunyakaa, Bruce Weigl, and Elliot Richman. In doing my research, I acquired a book that Weigl co-edited with Kevin Bowen titled Writing Between the Lines: An Anthology on War & Its Social Consequences. It's an excellent book of poetry, prose, fiction, non-fiction, you name it, all about Vietnam and it includes stuff from both American and Vietnamese writers. Anyway, I read a piece in this book by Tim O'Brien titled "How to Tell a True War Story." I have to tell you that I was so incredibly impressed with the insight, and the moving details of this piece that it literally brought me to tears. I've done a lot of research in this area and a lot of the stuff written about the Vietnam war is very raw but lacks the artistry that is so evident in O'Brien's writing. His work stand out! Also, as an aside, if there's anyone out there who would like to give me input regarding Vietnam War poetry or poets, please feel free to e-mail me at MobyMeg@aol.com. Thanks!
Megan Moore <MobyMeg@aol.com>
Carbondale, IL USA - Tuesday, March 24, 1998 at 20:53:58 (CST)

I have read The Things They Carried and will soon be starting Going After Cacciato for a University assignment. All I would like to say is that The Things They Carried put a knife straight to my heart. Why? Because I could only cry at the poor bastard ox being torn to pieces by a man torn up inside. Thank you for teaching me something about pain, real pain.
Sonja Jones <u5e55@keele.ac.uk>
UK - Tuesday, March 24, 1998 at 03:58:37 (CST)

I was very impressed with all of the infromation that you gave while speaking recently at the University of Indianapolis.
Jason A. Overholtz <J_A_Overholtz@juno.com>
Plainfield, IN USA - Monday, March 23, 1998 at 12:03:22 (CST)

A retired Vietnam Vet, I currently teach English at Rolllins College's Brevard campus. One of the courses I teach I call The Literary Legacy of the Vietnam War. Tim O'Brien is one of the mainstays of that course. I would be happy to talk to anyone about it. Gary Huested (huesteds@iu.net)
Gary C. Huested <huesteds@iu.net>
Palm Bay, FL USA - Sunday, March 22, 1998 at 09:12:41 (CST)

I read "Going after Cacciato" for a high school english paper & I have to say that the story really touched me. Thanks for the writing.
Pat Zimmerman <rod@hooked.net>
Orinda, CA USA - Friday, March 20, 1998 at 14:56:17 (CST)

Dear Tim, I read an excert of The Things They Carried for my college literature class. I must say that the story really touched me. I loved it so much that I wrote a creative writing piece on the story. I wrote an extended ending to the story. I would love it if you could ever read it. I think that I did a very decent job on this paper. My professor loved it and he said that I should try to get it published. -Margaret Conforti
Margaret Conforti <stmec01@moravian.edu>
Bethlehem, Pa USA - Tuesday, March 17, 1998 at 17:12:30 (CST)

I've been a fan of your work for some time. I went to Umass Boston, where I'm told you have an affiliation. Will you be speaking in the Boston area any time soon? Next time you're promoting a work (or not) contact us at the password for a live chat. It's clear you have the fan base to pull off a great chat!
Mike Antonellis <mantonellis@thepassword.com>
Boston, MA USA - Tuesday, March 17, 1998 at 15:39:57 (CST)

Sharing Tim's writings with a friend she pointed out to me his treatment of women in his books and stories. I went back and read again "Faith" and "Lake of the Woods" and "Things They Carried" and it put a whole new spin on the stories. What's up with the women in your stories and what men are doing to them?
Dennis Jerome <dukej@hotmail.com>
Grand Rapids, MN USA - Thursday, March 12, 1998 at 13:53:43 (CST)

Saw Tim O'Brien speak in Chicago five years ago. I had just read a number of his short stories and to hear him talk about them in a real life context really brings the experience home.
John O'Kane <okane@uiuc.edu>
Chicago, IL USA - Wednesday, March 11, 1998 at 23:01:39 (CST)

"The Things They Carried" is an awesome text that creates more questions than answers. I have just begun reading "In the Lake of the Woods" and am sure that it will be as good or better than "Things." Thank you Tim, for sharing your thoughts and experiences.
Lisa Thrush <thrush@boisdarc.tamu-commerce.edu>
Commerce, TX USA - Wednesday, March 11, 1998 at 00:15:26 (CST)

I have read both "How to Tell a True War Story" and "The Vietnam in Me" by O'Brien in my English 102 class at the University of Arizona. AMAZING! I am now doing a paper using both of these works as sources. Thanks for being able to share your experiences so that we can better understand the events that took place in Vietnam!
KT <mkat5@aol.com>
Tucson, AZ USA - Tuesday, March 10, 1998 at 18:48:47 (CST)

I just read In The Lake of The Woods for my final year of High school. I can not say that I found the book enjoyable, because I don't believe that was the aim of the book. However i did find it interesting and even though I have read it twice I think I have to read it again so that I can get all the details. I have just one other thing to say: I agree with you that in the end we are all alone. Does that scare you as much as it scares me? Could it be possible for you to email me back? Sincerely yours, Tully
Tully Zygier <tzygier@netspace.net.au>
Melbourne, Vic Australia - Tuesday, March 10, 1998 at 04:43:51 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien, Your works are quite simply incredible. Thank You Jake Bruce
Jake Bruce <Brucesta@hotmail.com>
tucson, az USA - Monday, March 09, 1998 at 23:23:50 (CST)

I read THE THINGS THE CARRIED and IN THE LAKE OF THE WOODS last weekend. Reading THE THINGS.. made me feel a bit closer to me dad who is a Vietnam vet. I bought him a copy. I hope it will help to ease the sorrow he carries. I love him so much and it hurts me to think of him as a young boy forced into the horror of that war. I thank you Mr. O'Brien for your books.
Amber Humphrey
Rochester, NY USA - Sunday, March 08, 1998 at 10:11:50 (CST)

Mr O'Brien, It's gonna be a mellow war today. Great book! Great books! If you are ever in Pittsburgh for anything, let me know.
Matt Monaghan <tlpf@grove.iup.edu>
Indiana, pa USA - Thursday, March 05, 1998 at 13:20:57 (CST)

Mr. O'brien. My 11th grade english class just finished The Things They Carried and have many questions on a few debatable topics. If possible, please write back so that I can ask you a few questions. Thanks a lot.
Eric Bass <ebass21@msn.com>
NJ USA - Wednesday, March 04, 1998 at 18:01:31 (CST)

Mr. O'brien. My 11th grade english class just finished The Things They Carried and have many questions on a few debatable topics. If possible, please write back so that I can ask you a few questions. Thanks a lot.
Eric <Bass>
nj USA - Wednesday, March 04, 1998 at 18:00:34 (CST)

Hello, I was just looking around for things on us O'Briens so i decided to sign your guest book, good job keep up the work!
Amanda O'Brien
Labrador, Canada - Tuesday, March 03, 1998 at 14:23:53 (CST)

Hi, just a question for the author. Which book did he enjoy writing the most and/or which did he find the most rewarding? I looked on the web site but couldn't find this info. I'm a big fan.
Dave Greten <fishbones66@hotmail.com>
USA - Tuesday, March 03, 1998 at 10:57:02 (CST)

Hi Tim, You certainly have an interesting website. I'll have to read your books. I've had all my photos & memories put away for the last 30 years. I now hope to write a book. Check out my gallery when you can http://www.wardogs.com/galery.html
Bob Heurung <nstar@cloudnet.com>
St.Joseph, MN USA - Sunday, March 01, 1998 at 16:25:52 (CST)

Dear Mr. O'Brien, I am a sophomore at Marietta High School and my literature class is doing a unit on wars. I have elected to read your book THE THINGS THEY CARRIED and I have to say that I have enjoyed it. The characters and the scenes were so well written that I felt that I was there with them. Reading your book have given me some insight on the horrors of the Vietnam War. I never realized that there was more to the guns, mortars, and the Vietcong. I look forward to reading your other works.
Joshua Langhorne
Marietta, GA USA - Tuesday, February 24, 1998 at 21:41:14 (CST)

Dear Mr. O'Brien, Hello, I am currently a college student attending the Indiana University of Pa, and in an english course I'm taking, I recently read The Things They Carried. The Vietnam war has always intrigued me, bringing about many mixed emotions, even though I am not from that generation, it's writing like yours that portrays the lifestyle of the soldier in Vietnam. I am going to try and get my hands on your other works because The Things They Carried had such an impact on me. I realize how many fans, and correspondents you must have, but any insight on your work would be greatly appreciated. Another reason I'm writing you is that for the past 2 years or so, I have been working on writing of my own. It's not the same style, or subject matter of yours, but an opinion from you on the topic would be a great influence, and inspiration.
David Barker <highlander90578@yahoo.com, kscg@grove.iup.edu>
Pittsburgh, PA USA - Tuesday, February 24, 1998 at 13:44:14 (CST)

Dear Mr. O'Brien: I am a 10th grade student who attends Marietta High School. I was given an assignment to read a war novel and do many projects and other things with it. I chose to read your book the things they carrried. I have just finished it and thoroughly enjoyed it. I have learned a tremendous amount and will be looking into reading some of your other books.
Andy Miller <tost@bellsouth.net>
Marietta, GA USA - Saturday, February 21, 1998 at 12:29:27 (CST)

Mr. Obrien, I am researching you for a english project because you greatly intrigue me. Please send me any information or literary critisism you may have.
Asa Daniel Pogrelis <asa_1998@yahoo.com>
woodstock, ga USA - Wednesday, February 18, 1998 at 07:32:02 (CST)

Tim, As part of outside reading for my English Class, I had the opportunity to read "The Things They Carried". The book was extremely well written and well worth my time!
David Swift <runswift@mindspring.com>
Marrietta, Ga USA - Tuesday, February 17, 1998 at 20:50:28 (CST)

Dear Mr O'Brien, I'm an junior in high school and I really need your help. Every junior in honors english has to pick an author for second semester and write a biography and a thesis on his work. We have to read nearly every book written by our author. After talking to fellow studends and seniors who had already done this assignment, I decided to use you. I've read The Things They Carried and loved it. I'm half way through another book and have just started your autobiography. I already have some good ideas about the thesis, but the biography is causing me some trouble. While all of my friends are doing the classical authors and are finding an overwelming amount of information, I'm having a hard time doing this research. I've found many critical articles and summaries of your work, but very little on your life. If there's anyway you can help me that would be wonderful. Now, I would like to take some time to comment on your writing. You have a writing style all your own. As I read The Things They Carried I felt like you were talking to me. (And I not just sucking up.) I've never read through a book so easily, but at the same time the material was dificult. Despite the fact that Vietnam was so recent, I know little about it. I think students my age need to spend more time in school learning about that war and need to understand the issues that it raised. Thank you so much for bring the guestions and horrors of Vietnam to life. In your book, every character was so well developed that when I finished it I felt like I really knew them and their pain. Please, please continue writing. I look forward to descovering more of your books on the library shelf.
Elizabeth <lemon8@teleport.com>
Portland, OR USA - Sunday, February 15, 1998 at 23:17:36 (CST)

Tim: I enjoyed "The Things that They Carried" and plan to get your first book "If I die in a Combat Zone...". This is not only because I enjoy your work, but because my Cousin served with the 11th LIB--same Inf. Regt., company etc. as Calley--but in 1969-70.I used to send him Kool-Aid to kill the taste of the water. The Americal Division never seemed to get anything but negative reporting and that's a shame. Would you take the time to check out my Vietnam page? Id be curious to what you think of it. Thanks! Lee
Lee A. Benjamin <Hey8Ball@aol.com>
Wayne, PA USA - Sunday, February 15, 1998 at 19:40:45 (CST)

Dear Tim, I just finished your book " The Things They Carried" It had been assigned to a group in a class titled: Creative Non-Fiction. It would not be something I would have chosen to read, but now I am glad I did. Though the subject was difficult for me, I feel I have been affected by your intense writing. I will carry the images you created with me for quite some time.
Amy <afki@aol.com>
NH USA - Sunday, February 15, 1998 at 19:07:56 (CST)

I am an adult student studying Literary Responses to the Vietnam War. We are reading, The Things They Carried" and even though you state it is fiction, several of us feel it is so realistic that it must be based on known fact. Please comment on this and I shall take your response to the class. I don't believe anyone could write that type of info without having had some experience along that line. I am senior citizen and having read all my life ,I question the reality of this. If it is not true, where did you get the ideas? Thanks for your time, I would really appreciate hearing from you.
DiAnn Kilburg <dkilburg@loras.edu>
Dubuque, IA USA - Sunday, February 15, 1998 at 18:49:28 (CST)

Iread "the things they carried" It was a great book. Ifelt like I was back in "FAT CITY" AGAIN.
Joe Howell
murfreesboro , TN USA - Saturday, February 14, 1998 at 18:03:02 (CST)

I am graduate student @ Texas A & M in CC, Tx. I have written several papers - undergraduate and graduate level using O'Brien's works. Currently, I am beginning a short paper on Structural Criticism and O'Brien's body of works (excluding Northern Lights - no copy available). If anyone has any thoughts on the subject - please send me a note. I find that the more I read, the more I see and begin understand.
Tisha Slabaugh <LSlabaugh@aol.com OR Tisha@eaudoramail.com>
Corpus Christi, TX USA - Saturday, February 14, 1998 at 10:29:11 (CST)

The ISBN number for Tim O'briens (uk) "promoting positive behaviour" is 1-85346-502-X. Hope that's helpful to jay.
P. Ferraresi
New Orleans, LA 70024 USA - Friday, February 13, 1998 at 02:17:49 (CST)

I love your work, Tim Reading your books motivates me to do my job.
Bud Lutterbie <Anderson H.S.>
CINCINNATI, OH USA - Tuesday, February 10, 1998 at 11:39:21 (CST)

Hey ! I have just discovered THIS Tim O'Brien. I was looking for TimO'Brien the author of 'Promoting Positive Behaviour' - a book published by Fulton Publishers in th UK. It is about working with challenging children in special and regular education and is extremely highly acclaimed in the UK. It comes very highly commended. I think that the UK Tim O'Brien is a lecturer at Oxford and is of Irish heritage.He's a big guy in special ed over there. Are these two authors in any way related?? Anyways, I'll read books by both of them now having read the comments on your guestbook site. It would be fun to find out if they are connected in anyway other than by name ? Certainly, they both seem to receive international plaudits for their superb writing.
Jay F.
Boulder, Co USA - Monday, February 09, 1998 at 03:52:04 (CST)

Mr. Obrien, I have just read "How To Tell A True War Story" at the reuest of my professor. It was startling, unsettling and best of all: You used the word motherfucker. To me, all great pieces of writing must be a bit profane, it livens the action and adds to the effect. I look foward to reading your other works. I like your ambiguious style.
Brian Slanovich <sl3476br@meteor.uscolo.edu>
Pueblo, CO USA - Sunday, February 08, 1998 at 19:06:21 (CST)

My freshman English course in college had a few pages from "The Things They Carried." I read it over this weekend, and was extremely fascinated by O'Brien's style. Vietnam war was never a subject I took much interest in, but I am looking forward to reading the full version of the book. =cŪ
Ksenya <gusak@ix.netcom.com>
CA USA - Sunday, February 08, 1998 at 00:15:41 (CST)

I was first introduced to Tim O'Brien's works as a high school junior. My English teacher suggested I read THE THINGS THEY CARRIED for my thesis paper on war. I read the book and loved it. O'Brien quickly became one of my favorite authors. In 1996, I was fortunate enough to meet him while he was doing a reading in Marshall, MN. It was a wonderful experience. I have now read several of his books and have enjoyed each of them. His passion for his books is amazing. His style can be a bit difficult to understand sometimes, but that only adds to its greatness.
Kelli Punt <puntkell@martin.luther.edu>
Decorah, IA USA - Friday, February 06, 1998 at 14:16:42 (CST)

I am a Gulf War vet who has recently decided to go to school. I have been assigned to give a "charater analysis" from a list of short stories given to me by my instructor (Dr. Gruber). She, knowing that I was a vet, pointed me in your direction, and I am happy she did. Your attention to detail has already had me thinking "Yeah, I know, I couldn't have said it, but Yeah I know." I just wanted to say thanks Rob RSS 2ACR "CAV"
Robert McCann <rss2acr@aol.com>
DeKalb, Ill USA - Wednesday, February 04, 1998 at 20:31:38 (CST)

Dear Mr. O'brein, I have to say that you are my favorite author that I have read. I am only eighteen so I know that I can never fully understand what you had to go through. I have read If I Die In A Combat Zone, The Things They Carried, Going after Cacciato, and I am currently reading Nuclear Age. You are the only author that I can get into and enjoy. You write with such great detail and feeling that makes me want to read more. I'm glad I finally found your home page and I can't wait to read another of your books. Thank You.
Scott Menaker
Skokie, Il USA - Sunday, February 01, 1998 at 17:24:12 (CST)

Dear Mr. O'brein, Dear Tim, I also graduated from college in 1968, from the U of M. I wanted to go to Macalester but couldn't afford it. Most of my friends went in the service and some went to Vietnam. I think of Tim as the "shadow self" with respect to Jungian psychology. Likewise, he is my "shadow self." Great books--Combat Zone, Lake of the Woods, etc. Mike Kluznik
Mike Kluznik <mkluznik@hotmail.com>
Mendota Heights, MN USA - Thursday, January 29, 1998 at 16:02:50 (CST)

Tim (My Unkown Brother), Between March 1968 and November 1968, I was the medic for 3rd platoon, Co. A, 5/46th. Even though we did not know each other, I shared in your days of hell. Pinkville, Mai Lai, Gator, L.Z.Ann, L.Z.Paradise, places that will forever be a hurting scar to my soul. I love you man! I'm so glad you made it! I haven't read your books yet, but I'm going to the bookstore today. My Nam Brothers will always be a part of who I am. Your success is my success. I'm proud of you. Mack Dunnagan md7@poncacity.net
Mack Dunnagan <md7@poncacity.net>
Ponca City, OK USA - Friday, January 23, 1998 at 14:24:20 (CST)

I'm younger than the war. But I know it might've been and might be me. An attempt to understand. A war from two eyes. Made me read about Viet Nam. Recent... I have seen vets..... yell at me.... call me a pussy..... because there is no war.... as if i would fight..... I don't know.... kill.... be killed.... run.... ashamed.... i don't know.... but in The Things They Carried, The story about the decision made with the old man in the boat made me cry. Tim sure is swell
Phillip McKrevis
USA - Wednesday, January 21, 1998 at 11:27:48 (CST)

It was very interesting and helpful.
Tweety Bart <klm_tweety>
New Hope , pa USA - Sunday, January 18, 1998 at 10:42:23 (CST)

'If I Die..' to me was superb in every aspect. The way in which the conflict was O' Brien wrote in such a personal manner about such horrific events impressed me very much as well as teaching me more about the war from the GI's point of view. I've chosen to write one of my final university exams on the book.
Nick Dunne <ncd4@le.ac.uk>
London, England - Wednesday, January 14, 1998 at 12:01:25 (CST)

just to say g'day from a fan down under
tim o'dwyer
australia - Wednesday, January 14, 1998 at 07:07:48 (CST)

Mr. O'Brien We have been reading excerpts from your novels in my acc. literture class and I was looking for more information. I praise you on your ability to share with us your incredibly courageous experiences. Thank you for what you have given us. If anyone would like to donate a comment to be used in an interpretive essay on Going After Cacciato, please e-mail me! Thanks!
Kylie Black <kylie_22@hotmail.com>
Clarksville, AR USA - Monday, January 12, 1998 at 16:21:51 (CST)

Just "discovered" you a couple of months ago. Have now read 4 books of yours, with "Things" being beyond praise. Awesome! No, not because you exorcised any ghosts. What's so brilliant is how boldly you deconstruct your own stories and then so nonchalantly roast the bits & pieces like marshmallows over the sullen coals of an epistemological skepticism. "How To Tell a True War Story" is the best of the postmodern best. Thanks for what you have so generously given us, Mr. O'Brien. And if anyone else out there wants to talk about Tim's stories, please email me.
John Hayes <jchprofhum@Hotmail.com>
Naples, FL USA - Monday, January 12, 1998 at 11:50:22 (CST)

I just completed a senior thesis on the works of Tim O'Brien. I would welcome mail from anyone wanting to talk about O'Brien's work.
Chris Singer <nomad3@ibm.net>
Pleasantville, NY USA - Sunday, January 11, 1998 at 21:44:05 (CST)

Tim, Welcome Home! I served with the 25th Div in 1967. I created, and am teaching a Vietnam Class at Holly High School. One of the books the students read is your "Things They CArried" My students love the book and kids who have not read a book at all, always read your book. Powerful Book. Read all of your work and I haved been moved by you. Thanks, Joseph Michael Mishler JMM1967@aol.com
Joseph Michael Mishler <JMM1967@aol.com>
Flint, MI USA - Friday, January 09, 1998 at 23:16:55 (CST)

O'Brien has changed me forever! Read "In the Lake of the Woods."
Chad Silker <Rockbrig7@aol.com>
Rochester, MMN USA - Friday, January 09, 1998 at 12:09:05 (CST)

I'm doing a reasearch paper over Tim O'Brien, the author of If I die in a Combat Zone. HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!
Justin Thrapp <linda.thrapp@telops.gte.com>
Irving, TX USA - Thursday, January 08, 1998 at 15:01:46 (CST)

Hello. I find your Vietnam books very interesting. My favorite is probably "The Things They Carried".
Casey Harala
Int'l Falls, MN USA - Thursday, January 08, 1998 at 12:36:06 (CST)

My College in High School class is currently reading The Things They Carried. I'd just like to tell you that so far almost everyone loves the book. I would also like to extend an invitation on the behalf of my class to come in and speak. The first story I read of yours was "On the Rainy River" and I loved it. I hope to one day be a writer too.
Pat Laschinger <PatLasch@aol.com>
Shakopee, MN USA - Wednesday, January 07, 1998 at 21:52:36 (CST)

Tim I'm sorry to say that I haven't read any of your books. It's been 31 years since Viet Nam, but after reading all the rave "reviews" I may pick up some to "open the closed door." Served as a grunt with Co. C, 4/12th, 199th - Nov. '66 to Oct. '67. Great website!
Bob Goldsmith <compuprt@foothill.net>
Auburn, CA USA - Monday, January 05, 1998 at 20:48:12 (CST)

I believe you are one of the very best writers writing today. I have enjoyed all of your works and have had a few of my AP English students read and research Cacciato and The Things They Carried. They have truly enjoyed getting to know you.
Mary Ann Black <rockma@aol.com>
USA - Monday, January 05, 1998 at 16:02:43 (CST)