The Other Side of War...Faces of Vietnam by Charlie Hughes

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MWSA Review

Charlie Hughes was drafted into the US Army in the spring of 1966 and trained as an artillery surveyor. A year later, he was stationed at a small airfield a few miles north of Saigon, where his civilian interests in photography led to his assignment as staff photographer for an artillery group commander. This job provided Charlie with the opportunity to travel extensively around the area, taking pictures everywhere he went.

He returned to the United States with a collection of negatives, color prints, and slides that eventually were stored away in his cellar, where, in his words, he “tried to bury the memories of the war.” More than half a century passed before a regional writers’ project encouraged Charlie to publish the handful of images that had survived the ravages of time as The Other Side of War – Faces of Vietnam.

Charlie’s stated purpose for publishing this book of original photographs is to provide “... a behind-the-scenes look at the people of South Vietnam, who lived with combat all around them, and the U.S. soldiers sent to help them.” Many of the images included deliver on this promise, offering sympathetic glimpses into daily life in wartime Vietnam, with a focus on the desperate, unposed expressions of children. Several photos of the daily routines of US soldiers show the mundane realities of rear-echelon duty in Vietnam.

Images of Vietnamese civilians—especially those of children—provide unique and compelling scenes of life in wartime South Vietnam. These represent the real value of this collection. Several are in color, their contrast and color balance reflecting the effects of age, but in some cases, these enhance their artistic impact.

Charlie Hughes is to be commended for his initial vision and perspective in capturing these images in the midst of war, and for preserving them for us to admire and ponder. Anyone looking for a glimpse into everyday life in war-torn Vietnam should overlook most of the photos of US soldiers and concentrate on those of the Vietnamese civilians—those on the “other side.”

You will be rewarded with these powerful and poignant pictures.

Review by Peter Young (June 2025)

Author's Synopsis

Author's Synopsis: Six months into my Army tour in Vietnam 1967-68 I was re-assigned to S-5 at Headquarters at 23rd Artillery Group in Phu Loi because of my abilities as a photographer and darkroom experience. I flew several times a week with Col. Robert Koch to base camps and fire support bases in III and IV Corps where units of the five battalions of artillery he commanded were located. While in Vietnam, because I was not assigned to the infantry, I also took many photos of US soldiers and the Vietnamese people in different settings. The photos in this book are among some of my favorites.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Other—Anthology/Collection

Number of Pages: 110

Word Count: 5,875

Persons of Interest by Mark Fleisher

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MWSA Review

Mark Fleisher's Persons of Interest offers appealing autobiographical stories interspersed with poems that provide thoughtful moments of reflection on the author's past experiences growing up in Brooklyn, going to college in the Midwest, and working as a combat journalist in Vietnam. There are a number of memorable characters in the stories ("persons of interest"), including Mrs. Narinsky, a neighbor who yelled at young Fleisher and his friends to "Stop making such noise, you nogoodnicks. If you don't I'll pour hot water on you", and Baby Blue, the author's second car bought on his return from Vietnam, a 1968 Pontiac LeMans which soon began spilling pools of rust-colored liquid then spewing flames reminiscent of Puff the Magic Dragon, the Air Force AC-47 that bombed enemy forces in South Vietnam.

But the most interesting and appealing character is the author himself, the narrator with his wry humor, evident even in troubled times. For example, when Fleisher is struggling with PTSD and is offered hypnosis, he gamely thinks, "Why not?" and is then able to laugh at his first conversation with his comrade Rick, later killed in action in front of Fleisher (and perhaps the most crucial reason for Fleisher's PTSD): after Rick had mentioned that he was Mormon and had never met a Jewish person before, Fleisher counters with, "Well, Rick, I've never met a Mormon."

Of the 13 stories and 13 poems in the collection, most—according to the author—are autobiographical, but others are fictional. The protagonist and his experiences seem to be the same throughout, but the other characters are fictionalized, and it is difficult sometimes to tell who is a real-life character and who is fictional. But on the whole, the collection presents a companionable glimpse into the mind and heart of a fellow traveler on this up-and-down road of life.

Review by Nancy Arbuthnot (March 2025)
 

Author's Synopsis

Persons of Interest is a law enforcement term to describe someone who is involved in an incident, not yet a suspect but may become one. In Mark Fleisher’s work entitled Persons of Interest, he investigates, follows up clues and names names. Fleisher, who enjoys dabbling in the kitchen of his Albuquerque homecooks up a Baker’s Dozen each of poems and stories, fiction and nonfiction alike. The menu ranges from tales of his childhood, through college days and Air Force experiences to more contemporary times.

From a misbehaving car to a scary plane ride to his first paying job Fleisher weaves his way through wistful and humorous tales as well as portrayals of loss and grief, all reflecting the author’s ability to give readers a buffet of emotions. The poems found in Persons of Interest often relate directly or indirectly to the stories told.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Other—Anthology/Collection

Number of Pages: 115

Word Count: 22,000

Issued: stories of service (issue two) by Rosemarie Dombrowski. PhD, Founding Editor of ISSUED: stories of service

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MWSA Review

Issued: Stories of Service, Volume 2, is a moving book with a diverse collection of prose, poems, interviews, and artwork. Sponsored by the Office for Veteran and Military Academic Engagement at Arizona State University and edited by a group of six, this collection weaves together the written perspectives of a group of veterans and family members throughout the United States.

This collection provides a glimpse into what it means to serve one’s country—from the perspective of those who served as well as their family members and caregivers. Within these pages, you’ll find a wide variety of emotions. Some pieces are humorous, while others are gut-wrenchingly personal. Fear, camaraderie, loss, and resilience are all explored. The searing honesty of these narratives is both moving and enlightening.

I recommend Issued to those who are interested in hearing the authentic voices of our nation’s veterans or family members.

Review by Jim Tritten (February 2025) 

Author's Synopsis

Launched in May 2023 with sponsorship from the Office for Veteran and Military Academic Engagement at Arizona State University, ISSUED is an annual literary journal that showcases the stories of active-duty, veterans, and their family members—specifically, poetry and flash prose that expresses the spectrum of experiences within military life, including gender and sexuality, BIPOC voices, physical and mental health, combat, enlisting and separating, family and relationships, and reintegration into society.

Because we pride ourselves on both our national readership and community ethos, ISSUED also features profiles of veterans who are doing extraordinary work in their communities, whether it be through the arts, education, mental health, or advocacy. In other words, we’re a journal with a broad military-affiliated audience, not just a strictly literary one.

At ISSUED, we also believe in the healing power of narrative medicine, and according to studies, when veterans read or write about service, they have better health outcomes. Thus, we hope that ISSUED will serve as a resource for veterans’ writing circles, discussion groups, treks, etc., i.e. be used to facilitate a heathier veteran community.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Other—Anthology/Collection

Number of Pages: 114

Word Count: 21120

[Not available on Amazon]

One at a Time by Allen Wittenborn

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MWSA Review

One at a Time by Allen Wittenborn will be an enjoyable read for anybody looking to have a sense of the human element in some memorable events from history. It's written in a nice, succinct way so that readers can jump to any specific chapter that suits their reading mood at the time. 

Review by Frank Biggio (April 2024)

 

Author's Synopsis

This baker's dozen of short reads explores the lives of people from a diverse range of backgrounds, locations, and time periods. They include true cases and imaginary ones. Some of the protagonists do well, others not so well. You'll find stories that are one hundred-percent factual, some purely imaginary, others a bit of each--creative nonfiction. Some end ambiguously or have no end at all. The stories are not listed in any particular order. They are not listed chronologically. There is no topic that binds them together, none of them is connected to another. The only common theme, it is hoped, is a potpourri of enjoyable stories.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Other—Anthology/Collection

Number of Pages: 207

Word Count: 57,000

Fading Memories of An Old Soldier: Vietnam 1968-1979 by Elvis Lynn Bray

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MWSA Review
Elvis Bray's memoir, Fading Memories of an Old Soldier, offers a raw, introspective look at the author's experiences serving in the Vietnam War from 1968-1970. Spanning 18 chapters in a concise 139 pages, Bray's account pulls readers directly into the harsh realities of combat. His vivid recollections of arriving in Vietnam and serving with the Seventh Squadron, First Air Cavalry transport readers to the front lines. With skillful storytelling, Bray exposes the fine line between courage and fear that soldiers face. His honest vulnerability provides insight into the toll of war, from enduring trauma to grappling with survivor's guilt. Bray's heartfelt dedication to fellow soldiers, including the many who perished, pays tribute to the unsung heroes of Vietnam. While chronicling challenging missions and crashes as a helicopter mechanic and crew chief, Bray also unravels the difficulties of life after war. His battles with PTSD and health problems reveal the enduring scars of combat. Yet he remains grateful for the "grace that allows him to wake up every morning with memories, not regrets."

Elvis Bray's anthology of real-life events and fiction stands as a poignant memoir of service and sacrifice. His vivid imagery and empathetic voice remind us that heroes are defined not by fear but by their actions in the aftermath of fear. This stirring account serves as both a history lesson and a timely reflection on the ripple effects of war—fading memories or not.

Review by Elvis Leighton (February 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

This is a memoir of short stories, non-fiction and fiction, based on real live events of my two years in Vietnam in 1968-1970 as a helicopter crew chief on a UH-1H helicopter in slicks and medical evacuation, dustoff helicopters, and as an observer in the scout helicopter. I served with the 7th/1st Air Cav in the delta in 1968-1969, and in the Central Highland with the 247th Medical Detachment in 1969-1970.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Collection, Short Storied

Number of Pages: 134

Word Count: 34,270

Chicken Scratchings: Fifty Inspirational Stories from a Mother Hen by Nancy Panko

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MWSA Review

Chicken Scratchings is an inspirational collection of short stories by the award-winning author, Nancy Panko. This anthology includes many of Nancy’s stories published in the popular Chicken Soup for the Soul series, plus several personal recollections of Nancy’s daily life and family. As a backyard chicken keeper, I must confess I was intrigued with the title and thoroughly enjoyed each little “nugget” of inspiration.

I was brought to tears by Nancy’s recollection of the death of her brother and the impact it would make on her future as a registered nurse and eventually the impetus of her writing career. The stories are personal and intimate. You feel as if Nancy is sitting across the table from you imparting the wisdom gained over many years throughout her rewarding career. As Nancy has, many of us face challenges in our day-to-day lives. How we face those challenges is up to each individual. Nancy’s stories focus on the positive. They exhort divine intervention of God in the face of adversity. Nancy’s strong faith is an ongoing theme throughout the collection and will make a wonderful addition to one’s daily devotional.

Review by Rebecca O’Bea (January 2024)

 Author's Synopsis

This collection of short stories can make you laugh and cry, give you the life advice you've been looking for, or inspire you to do something you've always wanted to do.

Chicken Scratchings is a great book to tuck in your purse for a read while in a waiting room or as an easy-breezy beach read. From the first chapter about a miracle in the Intensive Care Unit to another where firemen have to extricate the author's husband from the bedroom ceiling, Panko draws the reader into her reality.

Nancy Panko's short stories have been published dozens of times in Chicken Soup for the Soul books.

Reader's Digest, Woman's World and Guideposts magazines have also published her work.

Chicken Scratchings draws all of her short stories together to give readers a snapshot of this award-winning author's life and a glimpse of her family and the depth of her faith.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Other—Anthology

Number of Pages: 150

Word Count: 38,322

Holes in Our Hearts: An Anthology of New Mexican Military Related Stories and Poetry by Jim Tritten, Dan Wetmore, and Joe Badal, editors and contributing authors

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MWSA Review
Holes in Our Hearts: An Anthology of New Mexican Military Related Stories and Poetry is a moving book with a diverse collection of short stories and poems. Compiled by SouthWest Writers and edited by Jim Tritten, this anthology weaves together the written perspectives of a group of New Mexicans.

This anthology provides a glimpse into what it means to serve one’s country—from the perspective of those who served as well as their family members and caregivers. Within these pages, you’ll find a wide variety of emotions. Some pieces are humorous, while others are gut-wrenchingly personal. Fear, camaraderie, loss, and resilience are all explored. The searing honesty of these narratives is both moving and enlightening.

I recommend Holes in Our Hearts to anyone who is interested in hearing the authentic voices of New Mexico veterans.

Review by John Cathcart (February 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

Holes in Our Hearts provides snapshots of military life and how the military has affected lives. It is written from the perspective of New Mexico active-duty military members, veterans of the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, as well as their family members and caregivers. Eight of the authors had never been published before, and another dozen had only seen minor letters or book reviews in print. Two of the veterans do not own computers, and one is legally blind.

Some of the writing represents the first time many authors have revealed their innermost thoughts to anyone. Some of the stories are written by established authors with numerous publishing credentials. All are worth your time to learn why we continue to honor the military on behalf of a grateful nation.

Very few of the original submissions were camera-ready. Jim Tritten fully edited all prose. Dan Wetmore oversaw all poetry submissions and adjusted text as needed. Joe Badal assisted with prose editing and wrote the Foreword, which was used as the back cover material and the book description on Amazon. Jim researched military affiliations and terminology where necessary to ensure the correct acronyms, names, and dates were used. Jim also recruited additional volunteers who converted hand-written submissions. Jim then fully edited the digital versions produced by those volunteers. Note: all poetry formatting was as submitted by the author - many poems do not have traditional punctuation or formatting, as desired by the authors.

The anthology was funded by New Mexico Arts (NMA), a state government organization in the Department of Cultural Affairs. Copies were provided by NMA to all public libraries in New Mexico.

The contributions are organized alphabetically with memoirs, poetry, essays, humor, fiction, etc. mixed. A total of ninety-five written contributions were accepted from fifty-four New Mexicans. Each represents a tale worth reading, internalizing, and contemplating the experiences we as a nation expect our young men and women, their families, and their caregivers to deal with — sometimes long after their military service has ended, and nothing is left but holes in our hearts.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Other—Anthology

Number of Pages: 332

Word Count: 77,000

Those Gentle Heroes by Gary B. Blackburn

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MWSA Review

Those Gentle Heroes is a heartfelt (and at times heartbreaking) tribute to a handful of young men who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. They have some similarities: they were all volunteers, they were almost all 22 years old or younger (some as young as 18), and in most cases they died while helping someone else. Most were recognized for their bravery, and in a few cases, they were awarded the Medal of Honor. In that way, this book could be seen like a lot of other war books spotlighting those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

However, it is different. What makes it different is how the author tells each individual story. They are 90% fact, but where the facts aren’t available, the author adds dialogue and events that develop the characters in the stories. This blend makes each chapter more of a story and less of a historical event, drawing in the reader and generating a feeling that ultimately honors the deceased in a way a lot of history books miss.

I was particularly moved by the story of the battle for Hill 488, where eighteen marines were surrounded by over 400 regular NVA. Seeing the outrageous one-sidedness of those numbers, one would expect the marines to be annihilated. That didn’t happen. Most survived, although all were wounded, many of them multiple times. The intensity with which the author illustrates the love the senior marine had for his team on that mission is something that few authors can generate.

Those Gentle Heroes will appeal to Vietnam veterans and anyone interested in the camaraderie shared by those who serve in combat together.

Review by Rob Ballister (June 2023)

Author's Synopsis

March 29, 1968 - ARVN Rangers and U.S. advisors came under attack as their helicopters landed near A Luoi, RVN. Several choppers were destroyed, and there were many dead and wounded. Maj. Jim Morris, a former Green Beret working as an Army Public Information officer, was along on the mission and told of encountering a "redheaded trooper" in the middle of the firefight.

"The trooper looked to be about twenty-three or so," Morris said, "and following him was a slender, clean-cut kid with black hair."

The redhead called to some Vietnamese Rangers who had sought cover among the trees. He told them he and the kid needed help hauling about fifteen wounded men out of a bomb crater, but the Rangers stared vacantly as though they had not heard. From the hillock, Morris could see the crater filled with wounded Rangers, Green Berets, and U.S. Marine chopper pilots. They were pinned down by enemy machine guns firing from bunkers across the open field.

"There was scarcely a twig or blade of grass between us and the crater," the major recalled. The redhead stopped and looked back at the lone young man behind him. He shook his head and broke into a lopsided grin. Scrambling down the steep earthen bank, he burst through the trees with the kid on his tail. There were thirty yards of open space between the trees and the crater.

The two Green Berets made a broken-field run toward the crater with machine-gun rounds kicking up sprays of red dirt all around them. "I didn't see them get hit," Morris said, "but if they weren't, it was a miracle."

Those Gentle Heroes recounts the stories of twenty-one young men who served and died in Vietnam. This synopsis is a small portion of one of their stories.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Anthology

Number of Pages: 362

Word Count: 116,567

Together We Served by Bill Sheehan

MWSA Review

Bill Sheehan’s Together We Served is a gut-wrenching collection of stories from Navy corpsmen who served with Marines on the ground in Vietnam.

Every Marine feels a bond with every other Marine, and most have little fondness for the Navy, but there is one member of every Marine platoon that is loved and protected like no other—the one they call Doc. Navy corpsmen have served with Marines in combat for many years. Seldom older than the Marines they serve, they are nevertheless looked up to, because every Marine knows that if they get hit, Doc will come for them or die trying.

The stories in this book are real-life accounts of exactly that: Navy corpsmen doing everything they can to serve, protect, and save their Marines. That idea is repeated over and over again in this book: my Marines, our Marines, etc. They are touching always, terror-filled sometimes, and often without a happy ending. But they are real, and from the heart. The author, a Vietnam combat corpsman himself, collected these stories from those he served with, having reconnected with them through social media. He also tells his own story, and then shares one final story from a modern-day corpsman severely wounded while carrying on the corpsman tradition in Iraq. This particular corpsman removed his own wounded finger because it was preventing him from adequately treating his wounded Marine. There is no better illustration of the bond between Marines and corpsmen.

Vietnam veterans, prior hospital corpsmen, and army combat medics will appreciate this book very much. Well done to the author and those that contributed.

Review by Rob Ballister (January 2023)

 

Author's Synopsis

Fellow combat Navy Corpsmen talk about their experiences when they served with their Marines, in the jungles of Vietnam in 1968-1969. Sometimes difficult to talk about, but always heart wrenching, these stories are true and a reminder of the consequences of a war that has initiated PTS, various cancers and emotional trauma that they still battle.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Other—Anthology

Number of Pages: 170

Word Count: 37,000

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These Fought in Any Case: A Collection of Poems and Short Stories by Veterans

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Author's Synopsis

The Military Writers Society of America and The Cuddy Family Foundation for Veterans are honored to present a collection of original poems and short stories from veterans of the armed forces. Hundreds of submissions were received for a contest to send one veteran to the MWSA's Annual Convention set for August 2022 in New Orleans and the finalists are featured in this book. It is our pleasure to publish the creative efforts of the following veterans: Scott Mulvaney (Marine Corps), Kari Sobisky (Marine Corps), Melanie Costa (Marine Corps & Army), Jim Greenwald (Navy), Eric Leja (Marine Corps), Philip Julian (CO Army National Guard), Reed Bonadonna (Marine Corps), Marc Levy (Army), Theresa Ann Boquist (Navy), Mark Voelker (Marine Corps), Michael Lund (Navy), John Cathcart (Air Force), Tanya R. Whitney (Army), Michael Mullane (Navy), Eric Wasileski (Army & Navy), Thomas Mangan (Air Force), Donald Purdy (Navy), Jim Tritten (Navy), Richard K. Cartwright (Air Force), Jon M. Nelson (Army), Jessi Atherton (Army National Guard), George J. Bryjak (Marine Corps), Steven Wade Veatch (Navy), J. Scott Price (VA Army National Guard), Tim Weaver (Air Force), Ken Harbert (Navy & Coast Guard), Everett Cox (Army), R.G. Roberts (Navy), Briana M. Carr (Army), Jennifer K. Yancey (Army), Alexis Casiday (Navy), Robert W. Poirier (Navy), and Elvis Aaron Leighton (MN Army National Guard). This anthology was compiled by G.A. Cuddy and edited by April Leavenworth and I.Z. Fallon. The poem "Spring Thaw" by J. Scott Price of Faber (VA) was selected as the top selection.

Proceeds from the sale of this book will be split evenly between The Military Writers Society of America (mwsadispatches.com) and The Cuddy Family Foundation for Veterans (tcfffv.org). Note: the inspiration for the title of this collection stems from Ezra Pound's "Hugh Selwyn Mauberley," his 1920 poetry book that included a stirring elegy dedicated to those who served, and fought in any case, during The Great War.

9/11 That Beautiful, Broken Day by 17 American Authors

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MWSA Review
Those of us who were alive and ten years old or older can vividly recall where we were on September 11, 2001. It changed all of our lives, even the lives of those weren’t born yet, and we are still feeling those impacts today.

We all find solace in different ways. The writers featured in 9/11: That Beautiful, Broken Day found their healing in writing about the experience. The seventeen individuals contributing, appropriately noted on the cover as simply 17 American Authors, write about their feelings, the impacts, and how they moved forward. Some used poetry; many used personal anecdotes about where they were and what they witnessed. Some remembered loved ones lost.

Through all the writings, what comes through is the resolve and spirit of America that was showcased that day and in the months and years that followed. While it may stir up some unpleasant feelings and memories for those of us who vividly remember, it will also remind readers that this country has a spirit that can be tested, but not broken.

If you remember 9/11, you will benefit from this book. If you don’t remember 9/11, you will learn from this book. Either way, it’s worth reading.

Review by Rob Ballister (February 2022)
 

Author's Synopsis

Seventeen American authors share their memories of "That Beautiful, Broken Day," September 11, 2001.

Where were you when you heard? Or were you even born yet? This collection of stories, poetry and essays make clear the deep impact this day had, not only on New York city, Washington, D.C. and a field in Pennsylvania, but in hearts and minds all over the United States.

We were all eyewitnesses to history, no matter where we were and when we heard.

ISBN/ASIN: ‎ 979-8503300819

Book Format(s): Soft cover

Review Genre: Other—Anthology

Number of Pages: 112

Kale is a Four-Letter Word by Corrales Writing Group

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MWSA Review
When five members from Corrales Writing Group joined with six visiting writers and combined their award-wining talents, this staunch group created an anthology about…kale! The ubiquitous green that now seems to appear on many dishes served in trendy settings has a dark side well established in 134 pages. The skilled authors expose the crinkly and bitter green in a series of essays, short stories, plays, and cartoons.

One spouse insists on forcing the green in various forms on her husband as a necessary diet. He reacts. A quoted cartoon clearly shows his reaction: "Whether you eat kale or not, you're going to die." An enterprising promotions company seeks some marketing scheme in a reoccurring feature throughout the book. Kale is the subject in a one-act play. Sci-fi, history, and horror stories further expose this leaf as the featured, not so popular, character. The leaf, of various colors and toughness, is a murder weapon in a mystery. Kale is also mixed in a salad bowl arena, engaged in a fierce battle with other greens and eventually discovering all are related. “Hale, Caesar!” was actually “Kale, Caesar!”

Brassica oleracea’s alleged favorable contents in essential nutrients suffers from various negative features, which are pretty much recognized by most who attempt to eat it. All the plant's deficits are heartily—and cleverly—exposed in this small book. If the reader were still interested in attempting to eat this stuff after reading this ringing non-endorsement, the closing pages switch the theme to several, almost, (real) recipes. Set space alongside Strunk and White for a fine little book exhibiting the strong writing examples the former extols. The writers had to have laughed a lot together when composing this anthology.

Review by Tom Beard (March 2021)
 

Author's Synopsis
Kale has invaded our culture as the go-to food for healthy living, appearing everywhere on restaurant menus, in grocery stores, and in beauty products like soaps and scrubs. For some, the vitamin load and beneficial fiber cannot outweigh the bitterness and texture of this member of the cabbage family. For those people, kale has ignited a passionate response, often reflected in internet memes and T-shirt slogans. This collection of short stories shows kale in a new light. A couple of tales are horror stories about kale’s effect on a life; another one describes a speculative history of kale; one is a murder mystery where kale plays an unusual role; and one is a fantasy about kale’s rivalry with cauliflower. This book also features delicious kale recipes.

ISBN 978-1951122096 ASIN: B087V9KFV5

Book Format(s): Soft cover, Kindle, ePub/iBook

Review Genre: Collections—Anthology

Number of Pages: 140

New Mexico Remembers 9/11 by Patricia Walkow

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MWSA Review
New Mexico Remembers 9/11 is a compilation of people’s memories of where they were and what they were doing when terrorists hijacked commercial airplanes on September 11, 2001. While the attacks were centered in New York City, Pennsylvania, and Washington, DC, the shock and aftershocks were felt by all Americans. The collection includes accounts by people from all walks of life. Some were near Ground Zero, some were overseas, some were working in the Department of Defense or were Air Traffic Controllers, and some were young mothers or school children. The common denominator for this anthology is that all are now writers who live in New Mexico. Whether told through poetry, prose, or photos, the accounts are compelling.

It has been nearly twenty years now, and it is important to remember the events, our reactions, and the way Americans from all regions, religions, ages, and walks of life pulled together to bring comfort to the hurting, physical aid to the injured, and support to our front-line workers.

The anthology is a thought-provoking and memory-inducing compendium of heartbreak, survival, growth, and triumph over adversity. Whether you lived through the events or were too young to remember, this work can give you a glimpse into what we all battled, what we all faced in the aftermath, and what we were able to accomplish together. 

Review by Betsy Beard (February 2021)
 

Author's Synopsis
The terrorist attacks of 9/11 seared themselves into America’s collective memory. Non-stop images of collapsing towers, airlines flying into buildings, and a low-flying jet plunging into the Pentagon cannot be forgotten. Recordings of phone conversations between doomed passengers on United Flight 93—who knew about the previous attacks—and their loved ones on the ground, play over and over in our ears. In the subsequent days and months, much was said about New York, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania. It was as though the rest of the country disappeared. The media people seemed to ignore the reality that the United States was attacked, that people in states like Missouri, Oregon, Alabama, or New Mexico were also terrorized. Aftershocks of the event spread far and wide. This anthology captures the 9/11/2001 experiences of New Mexico writers. Some witnessed the event first-hand. Some were still in school, or out of the country. But all of them now live in The Land of Enchantment, the state snuggled between Texas and Arizona. The talented contributors to New Mexico Remembers 9/11 offer enlightening, sometimes heart-wrenching prose, thoughtful analysis, and evocative poetry. What did they see? What did they do? How have they coped since then? What did they tell their children? How did they get home? Who got angry? Who retreated into themselves?

ISBN/ASIN: ISBN: 978-1951122102 ASIN: B08CS22R3T

Book Format(s): Soft cover, Kindle

Review Genre: Anthology

Number of Pages: 250

The Blue Collar Blues and Other Stories by Bob Stockton

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MWSA Review
The Blue Collar Blues and Other Stories by Bob Stockton is a collection of short stories and essays, mostly biographical, that start with Bob’s early childhood in Trenton, New Jersey, and cover his years in the Navy, traipsing around the globe as well as from shore to shore in America. Those who lived through the fifties and sixties will find much in common with Bob. Those who are younger will get an education on how it really was back then. And those who served in the Navy will likely find common ground with the author, since most of the book is about his time in the Navy.

Most of Stockton’s stories are humorous, some with a little more bite than others. Some of the stories are, well, almost unbelievable. And all of the stories are populated with memorable characters, filled with fascinating detail and vivid word pictures. My favorite line in the whole book is, “Max’s ‘moral fiber’ was thinner than dental floss.” In many stories, the author draws the reader in and leads him along, lulling him into a pleasant state only to surprise him by delivering an abrupt sucker-punch ending to the vignette. Stockton has an engaging and folksy storytelling quality that is endearing enough to allow readers to ignore missing commas, quote marks, and the occasional wandering-bunny-trail sentence.

Review by Betsy Beard (February 2021)
 

Author's Synopsis
A shipwreck’s tragic toll in human life. The changing face of a quiet turn-of-the century neighborhood. A man who lost his wife unexpectedly. An obnoxious drunk who gets more than he bargained for. A horse who develops an affinity for a Hawaiian saloon. A submarine’s up close and personal encounter with a snoozing whale. Each of these stories and much more are found in The Blue Collar Blues and Other Stories, author Bob Stockton’s personal anthology of forty-six short stories that have been published over the past decade.

The book’s first section contains stories of a young boy’s coming of age in an ever-changing northeast working-class neighborhood. The second section highlights standalone stories that run from autobiographical to allegorical. The third section focuses on the adventures-and misadventures- of young sailors serving in the U.S. Navy of a half-century past. The fourth section relates actual tales of the U.S. Navy and her sailors deployed along the Pacific Rim.

Grab a cup of coffee and escape into the mind of an author with a flair for describing what is really important in life.

ISBN/ASIN: 9781662902895, B08F6663GC

Book Format(s): Soft cover, Kindle

Review Genre: Collections—Anthology

Number of Pages: 414

Read My Shorts by E. Franklin Evans

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Author's Synopsis

A collection of the author's short stories and personal experiences in exotic, faraway places. Join a soldier at the Battle of Fredericksburg as he "relives" the carnage. Visit Amelia Earhart's jail on a distant Pacific island. Meet an old curmudgeon in a home for the elderly; what a story he has to tell!

ISBN: 978-0-578-43639-5
Book Format(s): Soft cover
Review Genre: Collections—Anthology
Number of Pages: 125

Corrales Writing Group 2014 Anthology

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MWSA Review
I actually love anthologies with different authors and poets because it gives me a chance to explore and discover new writers that I may just wish to read more from. Anthologies are samplers of great chocolates or wine or cheese - you get to have small tastes of them without having to eat or drink just one. So they do serve a great purpose in the literary world for readers and can offer up stories or authors that they might never have chosen. So I do encourage that readers read them.

This is the second volume from this writers group. Having read through the 2013 edition, I kind of thought I knew what each might bring back to the table for readers. However, I was wrongly surprised, as the group upped its energy and delivered something much stronger than their first efforts. I did read author Jim Tritten first and was rewarded right way with his two chapters. But I was taken by the quality of work in the book by Patricia Walkow who’s 3 stories start off the book and are worthy contributions to this volume.

There are 7 contributors to this year's collection as author Jasmine Tritten joins in with a wonder story called "Kato's Grand Adventure". The whole volume is rich with literary gems and is worthy of having on your bookshelf.

Reviewed by: Bill McDonald (2015)

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Author's Synopsis

Jim Tritten (Navy vet and MWSA member) wrote: So How Much Did Those Running Shoes Cost? (humorous memoir) & Get-Home-Itis (memoir about a military flight during which he almost died).

Jasmine Tritten (Jim’s spouse and veteran’s family member) & Jim Tritten co-authored Kato’s Grand Adventure (fictional hero’s journey children’s story).

Thomas Neiman (Army vet) wrote: Anatomy of a Joke (humorous memoir about teenage life in New Jersey) & A Bedtime Story (adult fantasy).

Don Reightley (Navy vet) wrote: The Stage of Life (essay about aging), Jamison’s Bridge (first portion of a fictionalized essay about the big bang theory), and DO SOMETHING! (memoir about sailing).

Sandi Hoover wrote three aviation-related memoir pieces: Lighter Than Air, Right Seat Perspective, Kite Flying Rediscovered; as well as Backyard Distractions (memoir about wildlife in our village).

Chris Allen wrote three humorous memoir pieces: A Slight Tap (automobile accident), Eye-to-Eye (hiking in the wilderness), & A Grave Matter (mother’s funeral).

Patricia Walkow wrote three memoir pieces): Love's Assassin (what to do with old love letters), It Sounded Like a Good Idea (a humorous view of her trip to the Amazon), and Reflections on a Pond (a humorous view of life in her yard). 

The 2014 anthology includes memoirs, humor, philosophy, fantasy, poignancy, whimsy and fiction that will make the reader laugh, cry, smile, and reminisce.

Love, Sweet to Spicy: A Corrales Writing Group Anthology by Chris Allen, John Atkins, Maureen Cooke, Sandi Hoover, Tom Neiman, Jim Tritten, and Pat Walkow

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MWSA Review

Erich Segal once wrote, “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.”  So, if you like anthologies, you won’t be sorry you read the Corrales Writing Group’s Love, Sweet to Spicy.  

This twenty tale collection is entertaining, diverse, and heart-wrenching at times.  The stories encompass aspects of love from all angles—love stories, long-term relationships, parent and child, lost love, and love for pets. There are plots twists that will surprise and delight.  Yarns that will make you laugh and cry. Some will take the reader back to memories of their own past relationships. Included are several collaborative efforts and a poem.

As an added bonus, the book is filled with New Mexican artwork in a variety of mediums.  Many of the authors have included their own compositions.

Due to MWSA guidelines, this review only covers those individual stories not already submitted in earlier editions.

MWSA Review by Sandi Cowper (March 2018)

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Author's Synopsis

Love, Sweet to Spicy is a Corrales Writing Group anthology. It includes love tales: some true and some fabricated; romance between two adults; love between parent and child, and deep affection between a pet and owner. This volume offers the reader the opportunity to explore new love, long-standing love, and lost love. Ranging from sweet to slightly spicy, some stories are amusing, others are uplifting, and a few are heart-rending. The words within these pages offer a journey into love that touches both heart and soul. This work also includes several stories that were collaboratively written by at least two writers.
 

ISBN/ASIN: 978-1976074875
Book Format(s): Soft cover, Kindle, ePub/iBook
Genre(s): Fiction, Romance, Collections, Memoir, Single Poem, Young Adult
Review Genre: Collections—Anthology
Number of Pages: 284

Iraq: Providing Hope by Eric Holmes

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MWSA Review

A Collection of Stories from 50 people involved with Rebuilding Iraq. The book Iraq: Providing Hope is a fascinating collection of interesting and at times, even provocative, personal life experiences from 50 people involved with the rebuilding efforts of Iraq. Eric Holmes and Michael Parkhouse put this anthology into a logical and emotional order that helps the reader get a better sense of what is happening in Iraq.

There are no other books like this out there on the present world situation. It offers first hand observations of the mundane and sometimes the frightful events going on. This is not just a military tale of war but a telling of the human experience from both military and civilian point of view.

The stories are woven together like a huge jigsaw puzzle. It is the totality of all the pieces of this historic puzzle that gives you a much bigger and more focused perceptive of what this whole effort in Iraq is all about. This multi-viewed story telling is like looking at an aerial photo of a battle field for an understanding of what has happened. The editing smoothly ties it all together so that it moves and flows with energy and keeps the reader’s interest throughout the book.

This book needs to be read by people trying to understand the mission and the purpose of what the USA is doing in Iraq. It gives you a view that you are not getting in the media today. Put this book on your reading list!

Reviewed by: Bill McDonald (2006)

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Author's Synopsis

Over fifty people tell their stories of what they did and what they saw in Iraq. This is a diverse group from military, civilians, government workers and Iraqis. This composite paints a true picture of what is going on in Iraq. These stories bring out the details that headlines and sound bites cannot. To get a complete picture, this book is a must.

Angels in Vietnam by Jan Hornung

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MWSA Review

Jan Hornung’s wonderfully crafted anthology weaves the experiences of women who had served in Vietnam through personal stories and poetry.  It includes stories and poetry by several noted authors both men and women.  The common thread throughout this book is that each had a unique and personalized story—no stories are the same.

When all these experiences and emotions are shared together in a volume such as this book—it gives them a special spiritual life.  Even though the experiences are all different there are some common threads that are the glue of this book; we are all one human race and we each are touched in ways both emotional and spiritual by war.  I felt the pains and the fears and joys of those who wrote their hearts out to share a part of their own experiences.

The book covers the experiences of nurses, entertainers, Red Cross Donut Dollies and other women and even some of the men who were touched by that experience.  I highly recommend this book to read to give you an a better idea of “angels” these women really were.

Angels in Vietnam is an award winning book and was on the top 200 best selling list back a couple of years ago.  It is till widely read and available through online book stores and at the author’s wonderful website.

Reviewed by: Bill McDonald (2004)

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Author's Synopsis
Cry, laugh, and share womens Vietnam war experiences in their own words in this collection of stories, poems, and pictures of the Women Who Served. Over 11,000 women from America, New Zealand, and Australia went to Vietnam as nurses, American Red Cross workers, physical therapists, entertainers, librarians, and more. Ride along in a helicopter on a Christmas Day mission of the heart with Army pilots and American Red Cross Donut Dollies, in Vietnam, 1969. Meet Garys angel, a physical therapist who a wounded soldier found over three decades later to tell her, thank you. Take a trip back to the war with a woman when she finds her true love, a soldier fighting in Nam. Experience the war through a nurses eyes. Learn where the veterans are today. Read about the Australians and New Zealanders who served in Vietnam. Find out why male Vietnam veterans think the women who nursed, comforted, entertained, or just talked with them were Angels in Vietnam.Forward by David Hackworth, author of About Face and Steel My Soldiers Hearts.Jan Hornung is the author of This Is The Truth As Far As I Know, I Could Be Wrong and KISS the Sky: Helicopter Tales. www.geocities.com/vietnamfront

The Second Mouse Goes Digital: Self-Publishing Comes of Age; by Carolyn P. Schriber

Author's Synopsis:
“Write these things on a rock!”

In this updated version of The Second Mouse Gets the Cheese: How to Avoid the Traps of Self-Publishing, best-selling author Carolyn Schriber takes a closer look at the self-publishing innovations that have opened the gates to mainstream book publication. In twelve detailed chapters, she leads the writer through the self-publishing process, from that first decision to forego traditional publishing, through setting up a business and office, choosing the right software and social media platforms, planning the book, writing the first draft, revising, editing, choosing the best publishing partners, and finally to the book launch and marketing phase. Her words are still based on her personal experiences and still touched with her wise advice and gentle humor. Among her new rules to write on a rock are these:

•Treat your writing like a business.
•Words are meant to be read.
•Software does not come in one-size-fits-all. 
•Don’t start your author journey until you know where you are going.
•Do your homework.
•Watch your language,
•Your cranky old English teacher knew her stuff.
•Remember that your words (and mistakes) will outlive you.
•Don’t be fooled by promises of instant fame and fortune.
•Choose your publishing partners wisely.
•Give your readers what they love at a price they can afford.

ISBN/ASIN: 978-0-9993060-1-7
Format(s): Soft cover, Kindle
Genre: Nonfiction, Reference, How to/Business, Anthology