20 best books on soldiers – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you in search of a book that will take you on a gripping journey through the lives of soldiers? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the 20 best books about soldiers that are sure to captivate and inspire you. From epic war tales to intimate memoirs, these soldiers books offer a unique perspective on the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who serve. So, whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a riveting read, dive into this collection and discover the power of these incredible stories.


The Things They Carried

by Tim O’Brien

The Things They Carried is a captivating book about soldiers written by Tim O’Brien. It takes readers on a profound journey into the hearts and minds of young men who bear the weight of war on their shoulders.

All Quiet on the Western Front

by Erich Maria Remarque

All Quiet on the Western Front is a gripping book on soldiers that delves deep into the harrowing experiences of young men fighting on the frontlines during World War I. Written by Erich Maria Remarque, this powerful novel provides a raw and unflinching portrayal of the physical and psychological toll war takes on its soldiers.

The Yellow Birds

by Kevin Powers

The Yellow Birds by Kevin Powers is a powerful and haunting book on soldiers that delves deep into the lives of those who fight on the front lines. Set during the Iraq War, this book about soldiers follows the journey of two young men as they navigate the chaos and brutality of war. Through vivid and poetic prose, Powers explores the physical and emotional toll that combat takes on these warriors, painting a poignant and honest portrait of the human experience in the midst of conflict. With its raw and evocative storytelling, The Yellow Birds is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who serve.

Matterhorn

by Karl Marlantes

Matterhorn, the epic book about warriors by Karl Marlantes, takes readers on a breathtaking journey into the harrowing world of the Vietnam War. Marlantes, a decorated Marine Corps veteran himself, draws upon his own experiences to craft a gripping tale that immerses us in the lives of a group of young men sent to conquer the treacherous mountain known as Matterhorn.

Redeployment

by Phil Klay

Redeployment is a captivating book on soldiers that delves deep into the minds and experiences of those who have served in the military. Written by Phil Klay, this powerful collection of short stories offers an unflinching look into the lives of soldiers and the complex emotions they face when returning home from war.

The Naked and the Dead

by Norman Mailer

The Naked and the Dead: A Gripping Tale of Warriors

Experience the raw intensity and unfiltered reality of war in Norman Mailer’s masterful novel, The Naked and the Dead. This timeless classic takes readers on a captivating journey through the harrowing lives of brave combatants.

Immerse yourself in the pages of this unforgettable book on warriors, as Mailer delves deep into the minds and souls of soldiers, revealing the intricate layers of their fears, hopes, and dreams. With vivid prose and remarkable attention to detail, he paints a vivid picture of the human condition amidst the chaos of battle.

Set during World War II, this book about soldiers blends the relentless action of the battlefield with profound reflections on the nature of heroism, love, and the pursuit of survival. Through a cast of complex characters, Mailer explores the diverse experiences and emotions that soldiers endure, creating a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Prepare to be captivated by Mailer’s masterful storytelling as he weaves together themes of camaraderie, sacrifice, and the fragility of life. With each turn of the page, you will find yourself engrossed in the lives of these warriors, feeling their triumphs, their sorrows, and their unyielding determination to survive.

In The Naked and the Dead, Mailer has crafted a soldiers’ book that stands the test of time, encapsulating the essence of what it means to be a warrior. So, embark on this extraordinary literary journey and discover the profound truths that lie within the hearts of those who face the ultimate test of humanity on the battlefield.

The Forever War

by Joe Haldeman

The Forever War by Joe Haldeman is an extraordinary book about soldiers that takes the concept of war and interstellar travel to a whole new level. Set in a future where humanity is at war with an alien race known as the Taurans, this captivating novel offers a unique perspective on the life of soldiers.

Prepare to embark on a thrilling journey through space as you follow the protagonist, William Mandella, a young physics student who is conscripted into the military and sent off to fight the Taurans. But this is no ordinary war. Due to the vast distances between star systems, time dilation becomes a significant factor, causing years to pass on Earth while only months or even weeks elapse for the soldiers.

Haldeman expertly explores the psychological and emotional toll that this time dilation takes on the soldiers, as they return home to a world that has drastically changed. The soldiers are forced to adapt to new social norms, technologies, and even relationships, making them feel like strangers in their own society.

What sets this book on soldiers apart is Haldeman’s ability to blend science fiction with insightful commentary on war and its consequences. Through his vivid descriptions, he highlights the futility and absurdity of war, questioning the reasons behind human conflicts and the sacrifices made by those caught in the crossfire.

As you delve deeper into the story, you’ll witness Mandella’s transformation from a young, naive soldier to a battle-hardened veteran. Alongside him, you’ll experience the bittersweetness of love, the tragedy of loss, and the profound impact that war can have on individuals and society as a whole.

The Forever War is not just another book about soldiers; it is a thought-provoking masterpiece that delves into the human psyche and explores the complexities of war and the price it demands. So buckle up, and get ready to be captivated by this timeless tale that will leave you pondering long after you turn the final page.

The Kite Runner

by Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner, a captivating tale by Khaled Hosseini, is not just another book about soldiers; it delves deep into the complex world of loyalty, redemption, and the enduring bonds of friendship. Set in Afghanistan, this remarkable novel follows Amir, a young boy from Kabul, and his inseparable friend, Hassan. Their lives are forever changed when a traumatic incident occurs that tests the limits of their friendship.

The Long Walk: A Story of War and the Life That Follows

by Brian Castner

The Long Walk: A Story of War and the Life That Follows is a captivating book on soldiers that delves into the harrowing experiences of those who have served in the military. Written by Brian Castner, a former bomb disposal officer, this poignant memoir offers readers a deeply personal and raw account of the physical and psychological toll of war.

Castner takes us on a journey through his time as a soldier in the Middle East, where he faced the constant threat of improvised explosive devices and the haunting reality of life and death decisions. Through his vivid storytelling, we are transported to the front lines, feeling the adrenaline rush, the fear, and the camaraderie that soldiers experience in the midst of combat.

However, The Long Walk goes beyond just being a book about soldiers. Castner also bravely confronts the aftermath of war, exploring the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life and the lasting impact it has on mental health. He offers a hauntingly honest portrayal of the internal struggles and battles that soldiers face long after they have left the battlefield.

With his powerful prose and introspective reflections, Castner paints a vivid picture of the realities faced by those who have served their country. He brings nuance and humanity to the stories of soldiers, reminding us that they are not just faceless heroes, but individuals grappling with trauma and trying to find their place in a changed world.

The Long Walk is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those in military service. Castner’s poignant memoir serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit, making it a truly remarkable soldiers book.

The Good Soldiers

by David Finkel

The Good Soldiers, written by David Finkel, is a gripping and powerful book on soldiers that takes readers deep into the heart of the Iraq War. Finkel, an acclaimed journalist, provides an intimate and unflinching account of the experiences of American troops deployed to the frontline in Baghdad. Through his vivid storytelling and exhaustive research, he offers a raw and honest portrayal of the brave men and women who serve in the military, shedding light on the harsh realities they face on a daily basis.

The Guns of August

by Barbara W. Tuchman

The Guns of August by Barbara W. Tuchman is not just another book on soldiers. It is a gripping account of the soldiers’ world, where strategy, bravery, and chaos intersect. Tuchman takes readers on a journey through the tumultuous days leading up to World War I, immersing us in the minds of the soldiers and the heart-stopping events that unfolded on the battlefield.

The Thin Red Line

by James Jones

The Thin Red Line is a mesmerizing book about soldiers that immerses readers into the gritty reality of war. James Jones, renowned for his raw and unfiltered exploration of the human condition, presents a haunting tale of bravery, fear, and the intricate bonds that form among those who serve together on the battlefield.

Dispatches

by Michael Herr

Dispatches by Michael Herr is not just another book on soldiers, it is a riveting and immersive exploration into the hearts and minds of those who have experienced the chaos and brutality of war. This extraordinary book about soldiers takes readers on a visceral journey through the trenches, capturing the raw emotions and harrowing realities of warfare through Herr’s powerful and lyrical prose.

Black Hawk Down

by Mark Bowden

Black Hawk Down by Mark Bowden is a heart-pounding book on soldiers that plunges readers into the chaotic and gripping reality of modern warfare. Through meticulous research and interviews, Bowden masterfully captures the intensity and bravery of the soldiers who faced unimaginable challenges in the Battle of Mogadishu.

American Sniper

by Chris Kyle

American Sniper by Chris Kyle is a captivating book on soldiers that immerses readers into the gritty world of warfare and the unbreakable bonds forged on the battlefield. As a former Navy SEAL and the most lethal sniper in American history, Kyle shares his remarkable story, providing an intimate glimpse into the life of a modern-day warrior.

We Were Soldiers Once… and Young

by Harold G. Moore and Joseph L. Galloway

We Were Soldiers Once… and Young is a gripping book on soldiers that takes readers deep into the heart of the Vietnam War. Written by Harold G. Moore, a highly decorated lieutenant colonel, and Joseph L. Galloway, an award-winning journalist, this extraordinary account offers a raw and unflinching look at the bravery and sacrifice of those who served.

Set in 1965, during the early stages of the Vietnam War, this book about soldiers transports readers to the battlefields of the Ia Drang Valley. The authors vividly depict the harrowing experiences of both American soldiers and their North Vietnamese counterparts, painting a vivid picture of the intense combat and the toll it takes on those involved.

Moore and Galloway’s writing style is both poignant and gritty, immersing readers in the chaos and confusion of war. The authors seamlessly weave together personal accounts, historical context, and military strategy, providing a comprehensive and balanced view of the conflict.

What sets this soldiers book apart is its focus on the human element. Moore and Galloway go beyond the statistics and headlines, delving into the lives and emotions of the men on the front lines. Through powerful storytelling, they capture the camaraderie, fear, and resilience of the soldiers, making their experiences relatable and unforgettable.

We Were Soldiers Once… and Young is a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought in the Vietnam War. It serves as a reminder that behind every soldier is a unique story, and that the true cost of war extends far beyond the battlefield.

Band of Brothers

by Stephen E. Ambrose

Band of Brothers by Stephen E. Ambrose is a captivating book that delves into the incredible true story of a group of individuals who were more than just soldiers – they were a brotherhood. This remarkable tale takes readers on a gripping journey through the harrowing experiences of these brave men who fought together, lived together, and, ultimately, triumphed together.

Lone Survivor

by Marcus Luttrell

Lone Survivor is an extraordinary book on soldiers that captures the heart-pounding courage and unbreakable spirit of those who serve in the military. Written by Marcus Luttrell, a former Navy SEAL, this gripping memoir takes readers on an unforgettable journey into the treacherous world of war.

The Last Full Measure

by Jeff Shaara

The Last Full Measure by Jeff Shaara is a riveting and powerful book about warriors, those brave individuals who courageously fight on the front lines in the face of unimaginable adversity. This captivating novel takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the eyes of soldiers, revealing the true essence of their sacrifices and the indomitable spirit that drives them forward.

The Killer Angels

by Michael Shaara

The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara is an electrifying book on warriors, delving deep into the hearts and minds of those who bravely fought on the battlefield. Set during the American Civil War, this captivating novel uncovers the true essence of soldiers, revealing their fears, hopes, and sacrifices in the face of an impending battle. With its richly detailed narrative and vivid characters, The Killer Angels paints an unforgettable portrait of the valiant men who shaped the course of history. Prepare to be mesmerized by this extraordinary soldiers book that will transport you to the heart of the battlefield.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about soldiers are a must-read for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the sacrifices, courage, and resilience of the men and women who serve in the military. From gripping memoirs to powerful historical accounts, these books offer a unique perspective into the world of soldiers, shedding light on their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a military buff, or simply curious about the human spirit, these captivating books will leave you inspired, moved, and forever grateful for the brave soldiers who defend our freedom.