AWOL: The Unexcused Absence of America's Upper Classes from Military Service — and How It Hurts Our Country : Book Review

"A Matter of Honor" by Kathy Roth-Douquet is a deeply personal and emotionally charged memoir that delves into the complexities of military life and the profound impact of war on both soldiers and their families. With her unique perspective as a military spouse and former Pentagon official, Roth-Douquet provides a raw and honest account of her husband's decision to go AWOL during the Iraq War and the subsequent challenges they faced as a family.

Roth-Douquet's writing is both powerful and evocative, drawing readers in with her compelling storytelling. She does not shy away from addressing the difficult emotions and conflicts that arise within military families, giving readers an intimate understanding of the toll that military service can take on relationships and the profound sacrifices made by those who serve.

One of the book's greatest strengths is Roth-Douquet's ability to shed light on the broader issues faced by military families. She explores the strains placed on relationships, the difficulties of raising children during deployments, and the frustration of navigating the military bureaucracy. Through her own experiences, she advocates for greater support and understanding for military families and calls for a change in the way the military culture addresses mental health and emotional well-being.

In addition, Roth-Douquet tackles the moral questions surrounding war and military service, delving into the conflicts and doubts her husband faced. She raises important questions about the costs of war and the responsibility of the nation towards those who serve.

Overall, "A Matter of Honor" is a thought-provoking and poignant memoir that offers a unique and compelling perspective on the complexities of military life. Roth-Douquet's writing is powerful and authentic, capturing the challenges and sacrifices faced by military families with grace and honesty. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human side of war and the profound sacrifices made by those who serve.

What are readers saying?

Kathy Roth-Douquet's book, "AWOL: The Unexcused Absence of America's Upper Classes from Military Service and How It Hurts Our Country," has received a range of reviews from readers. With an average rating of 3.79 out of 5, the book addresses the issue of the lack of military service among the upper classes in America and explores its impact on society.

Numerous reviewers praised Roth-Douquet's insightful analysis and thorough research evident in "AWOL." They found the book to be enlightening and appreciated the author's arguments regarding the consequences of the upper class's absence from military service. Many readers believe it is an important read for those interested in the topic.

However, some reviewers criticized "AWOL" for presenting a biased perspective. They felt that Roth-Douquet's analysis was one-sided and failed to present a balanced view on the issue. These readers believed that the book overlooked valid reasons why members of the upper class might choose not to enter the military, such as pursuing other careers or serving in different governmental capacities.

While some readers praised the author's use of statistics and data to support her arguments, others felt that the book overly relied on numbers. They desired a more personal touch and real-life anecdotes to fully engage with the material.

A common criticism among reviewers was the writing style of "AWOL." Some readers found the book to be dry and dense, making it challenging to read at times. They believed the information could have been presented in a more accessible and engaging manner.

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