The Journalist provides a fascinating glimpse into the early unrest in Vietnam and America’s heavy-handed part in provoking the resulting war. Told through short vignettes, much like journal entries, we see this all play out through the eyes of Jerry Rose, a journalist living in Vietnam during this chaotic period.

While I found much of the content interesting, I struggled with aspects of the book. At times it reads much like the cobbled together book it is, in which pieces of Rose’s notes, letters, and research were strung together decades after his death. The writing has a stilted feel, lacking the emotional connection Jerry Rose could himself have provided, and much of the dialogue is a fictionalized version of what might have been said during events when no one was recording or taking exact notes.

Also, the focus is a much wider scope than the Vietnam war. We spend a lot of time on Rose’s personal life, his familial relationships, friendships, eventual marriage, and parenthood. We see his career struggle and the toll his lust for journalism, particularly regarding Vietnam, took on his marriage. Rose spent time chasing stories throughout Asia, taking him away from Vietnam at a time when the burgeoning war wasn’t as interesting as it would later become to the magazines and newspapers for which he wrote. All this gives the book the feel of a young man’s memoir, rather than a story specifically about Vietnam.

Rose was an accomplished photographer as well as a writer, and some of his photos are included in this book. These lent a stronger connection to the vignettes, offering us a view from Rose’s eyes. I wish more of his photos had been included.

Overall, The Journalist is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the pre-war Vietnam culture, early journalism, and/or Jerry Rose.

*I received a review copy.* ( )

As a fan of historical reads and non fiction, I found this book really intriguing. Instantly, I was transported to Vietnam. I know a little about the Vietnam war and life but not a lot. Therefore, you can say that this book was an eye opener for me.

I like how Jerry adapted to the lifestyle and was supportive. Thus the reason that some many called him friend. This made it harder when Jerry's life was cut short due to an unfortunate accident.

When you think of journalist, you may not think they have a job that could be dangerous but if the journalist is a war correspondent. It can be dangerous. They actually go where the action is in order to report on the war. Which, makes me instantly think of Marie Colvin. Marie Colvin was showcased in the movie that I recently saw, A Private War.

I will admit that at times I did find the pacing to move slowly. Overall, though I did find this book to be an enjoyable read. ( )