When Johnny Doesn't Come Marching Home: A Mother's Story of the Price for Freedom : Book Review

"When Johnny Doesn't Come Marching Home" by Rhonda Winfield is an incredibly compelling and heartfelt novel that takes place during the Vietnam War. The story revolves around the lives of three women - Carolyn, Lily, and Phyllis - whose worlds are forever altered when their loved ones are enlisted to fight.

Carolyn, a tenacious and determined woman, embarks on a journey as a nurse to provide care for wounded soldiers in Vietnam. Lily, a young and naive girl, discovers her passion for activism by becoming an anti-war protestor. Meanwhile, Phyllis, a devoted wife and mother, struggles to maintain her family's unity and support her husband's decision to join the war effort.

The novel explores the emotional turmoil and sacrifices that these women endure as they anxiously await the return of their loved ones. It delves into the profound impact of war on both the soldiers and their families, painting a vivid and realistic picture of the time period. With her exceptional storytelling, the author brings the characters to life, enabling readers to deeply empathize with their struggles.

Winfield's writing style is incredibly raw and evocative, effectively capturing the fear, worry, and heartbreak that war inevitably brings. The narrative maintains a perfect balance, keeping readers engaged and invested in the story until the very last page. The author's meticulous attention to detail and extensive research lend an authenticity to the setting and historical backdrop of the novel.

"When Johnny Doesn't Come Marching Home" is a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of the complexities of war and its profound effects on individuals and society. Rhonda Winfield's powerful storytelling and well-developed characters ensure that this book will resonate with readers long after they have finished the final chapter.

What are readers saying?

"When Johnny Doesn't Come Marching Home" by Rhonda Winfield has received a variety of responses from readers, with opinions on the book being mixed. The story centers around the aftermath of war and its profound impact on the lives of soldiers and their families.

There is a group of readers who highly praised the book, emphasizing its realistic portrayal and emotional depth. These readers found the characters to be well-developed and relatable, allowing for a strong connection to their struggles. The author's writing style was commended for effectively conveying the complex emotions experienced by the characters and the rawness of war. These readers appreciated how the book explored the effects of war on both the soldiers and their loved ones, finding it thought-provoking and realistic.

On the other hand, there were other readers who had a more critical perspective on the book. They felt that the pacing was slow and criticized the lack of a clear direction in the story. Some readers struggled to engage with the characters and connect with their experiences, which affected their overall enjoyment of the book. Additionally, a few reviewers noted that they expected the book to delve deeper into certain aspects of war and its aftermath, finding it lacking in this regard.

Overall, opinions on "When Johnny Doesn't Come Marching Home" are divided. While some readers found it to be a compelling and emotionally resonant exploration of the impact of war, praisinig the author's writing style and character development, others felt that the book lacked direction and failed to fully delve into the complexities of its subject matter. If you appreciate character-driven novels that delve into the emotional aftermath of war, this book may be worth considering. However, if you prefer faster-paced and more focused narratives, you may find it less satisfying.