Ghosts of War by Ryan Smithson

In this new nonfiction book for young adults, Ryan Smithson recounts his journey from a high school junior watching with his classmates as the events of September 11, 2001 unfold, to frightened Army recruit headed off to boot camp, to seasoned veteran returning home after a tour of duty in Iraq.

Those who anticipate action. valor, and bloodshed will share in the author's surprise as he discovers that much of Army life is routine, mundane, and boring. His insights are candid and convincing as he relates some of the situations that left him confused, scared, and proud. Smithson admirably keeps his audience in mind--coarse language and vulgar humor, a part of Army life for many soldiers, is kept to a minimum.

The most emotionally wrenching scene in the book comes not in battle, but when Smithson and others must clean and strip two Humvees in which several soldiers were killed. Their response to the gravity is a morbid humor that, as Smithson explains, is the only way that they can cope with the human loss and continue on. It is these types of observations about life and growing up that will make this book a valuable addition to teen collections. I would recommend it for grades 8 and up.