Secrets: A Memoir of Vietnam and the Pentagon Papers : Book Review

"Secrets" by Daniel Ellsberg is a captivating memoir that takes readers on a gripping journey through the author's time as a high-level Pentagon insider during the Vietnam War era. In this thought-provoking book, Ellsberg chronicles his decision to leak the infamous Pentagon Papers, which exposed years of government deception and lies surrounding the war.

Ellsberg begins by providing a detailed background of his involvement in government and his integral role in the Vietnam War. This sets the stage for his momentous decision to leak the classified documents, showcasing his unique insider perspective. The author recounts the moral dilemmas and internal conflicts he faced, offering readers an intimate understanding of the weighty choices he confronted.

What truly sets "Secrets" apart is Ellsberg's frankness and self-reflection throughout. He delves into his motivations and the personal sacrifices he made as a result of his actions. The book emphasizes the importance of whistleblowing and its potential to challenge government secrecy, elevating Ellsberg to the status of a true hero in the eyes of many.

Additionally, "Secrets" sheds light on the power of media and public opinion in holding governments accountable. By leaking the Pentagon Papers, Ellsberg catalyzed a shift in public perception of the Vietnam War. This aspect of the book offers a fresh perspective on historical events, demonstrating the influential role that individuals can play in shaping public discourse.

Overall, "Secrets" is a riveting and eye-opening memoir that provides readers with a rare glimpse into one of America's most contentious periods. Ellsberg's personal account, coupled with his astute analysis of government secrecy, makes this book an enthralling read for anyone interested in politics, history, or the impact of individual actions on effecting change.

What are readers saying?

"Secrets: A Memoir of Vietnam and the Pentagon Papers" by Daniel Ellsberg has garnered a range of reviews, with readers expressing mixed opinions about the book. Ellsberg, a former high-ranking government official, recounts his experiences and decision to leak the Pentagon Papers, which revealed the true nature of the Vietnam War. While some commend the book for its gripping narrative and insightful analysis, others criticize its excessive length and occasional lack of clarity.

Many reviewers appreciate the firsthand perspective provided by Ellsberg in "Secrets." They find his account of the Vietnam War and the events surrounding the Pentagon Papers to be engaging and thought-provoking. His courage in questioning the government's actions is lauded, as is the level of detail he provides in his narrative. Readers also highlight the importance of the revelations made in the Pentagon Papers and the impact they had on public perception of the war.

However, some readers find the book's length to be overwhelming. They believe it could have been more effectively condensed and edited to maintain a consistent flow. Additionally, certain sections of the book are criticized for their dense and academic writing style, making it difficult to follow at times. Despite the commendable content, the execution of the book may deter some readers.

Another criticism raised by a few reviewers is the perceived self-aggrandizement in "Secrets." They argue that Ellsberg portrays himself as a heroic figure, which they feel overshadows the larger issues and consequences discussed in the book. These reviewers express a desire for additional perspectives or a more balanced representation of events.

Overall, "Secrets: A Memoir of Vietnam and the Pentagon Papers" has elicited a diverse range of feedback from readers. It offers a compelling firsthand account of the Vietnam War and the release of the Pentagon Papers, but some find it excessively long, occasionally unclear, and self-indulgent. Nevertheless, many appreciate the important historical and political insights provided by Daniel Ellsberg's memoir.

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