A Practical Guide for Returning Troops and Their Families
Starred review from May 1, 2008
Many readers first became acutely aware of both the devastating effects of the conflicts in the Middle East and the shortcomings of our government in addressing the needs of our surviving service members through Penny Coleman's "Flashback: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Suicide, and the Lessons of Vietnam" (for an author interview, see www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6321458.html). Here, Friedman, a physician, and Slone (VA National Ctr. for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs) further help us understand and support our service members. They begin with a chapter titled "Understanding the Emotional Cycle of Deployment," progress through "Common Reactions to the Trauma of War," and conclude with chapters on community support and support for "those focusing unique challenges." The reader is able to share a journey with three service members and their respective families as they encounter new situations, struggles, and opportunities. Far more than a practical guide, this is an informative, insightful, and riveting text that should be required reading for everyone because no one is left untouched by war. Essential for all libraries.Melody Ballard, Pima Cty. P.L., Tucson
Copyright 2008 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.