Top 12 Vietnam War Books

Erica Potter
10 min readSep 3, 2024

Dive into the tumultuous era of war with our curated list of Vietnam War Books . From first-hand accounts to well-researched narratives, these titles offer captivating insights into the complexities of this conflict.

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1. Everything We Had

Everything We Had | Image

An Oral History of the Vietnam War

Everything We Had: An Oral History of the Vietnam War delves deep into the minds of thirty-three American soldiers who were immersed in the conflict. Presenting their firsthand accounts, they recount the experiences that shaped their lives, forging a gripping narrative filled with courage, loss, and unwavering resilience. The book, a 1983 American Book Award nominee, is a testament to the human spirit and the indelible mark that war leaves on those who bear witness to it.

In the pages of Everything We Had, readers can expect to navigate the intricacies of war through the lens of those who fought it, all the while gaining a profound understanding of the trials and tribulations faced by American soldiers during the Vietnam War.

  • Authors: Al Santoli
  • Publisher: Ballantine Books
  • Published Date: March 12, 1985
  • Page Count: 274.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

2. The Vietnam War

The Vietnam War | Image

Embark on a captivating journey through the history of the Vietnam War with "The Vietnam War" by Douglas Willoughby. This compelling juvenile nonfiction book takes readers on a journey through the events leading to the conflict, exploring American involvement and the opposition at home.

As the story unfolds, the end of the war and its aftermath are brought to life in this engaging narrative. With its thorough descriptions and concise page count of 52, this book is perfect for those looking to delve into the Vietnam War's intricate history.

"The Vietnam War" is an essential addition to any curriculum, offering insightful and accessible information for readers of all ages.

  • Authors: Douglas Willoughby
  • Publisher: Capstone Classroom
  • Published Date: January 01, 2001
  • Page Count: 52.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Nonfiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

3. Tet!

Tet! | Image

The Turning Point in the Vietnam War

Tet! paints a vivid picture of a turning point in the Vietnam War. This classic work of military history, war reportage, and a definitive account of Tet and its aftermath, by Don Oberdorfer, delves into the significant role this event played in America's involvement in Southeast Asia.

In 1968, Communist forces in Vietnam launched a surprise offensive targeting almost every city and military base in South Vietnam. The U. S. embassy in Saigon itself came under attack by the Viet Cong. Militarily, the offensive was unsuccessful, but politically, it marked a pivotal moment in America's perception of the war. Tet! brings the reader to the heart of this conflict through Oberdorfer's own observations as a Washington Post correspondent and interviews with hundreds of people who experienced the struggle firsthand.

This captivating and essential work serves as a crucial contribution to our understanding of the Vietnam War. It stands out as a National Book Award Finalist and remains a must-read for anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities and repercussions of this infamous event.

  • Authors: Don Oberdorfer
  • Publisher: JHU Press
  • Published Date: March 31, 2001
  • Page Count: 446.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

4. America, the Vietnam War, and the World

America, the Vietnam War, and the World | Image

Comparative and International Perspectives

"America, the Vietnam War, and the World" offers a thorough and intricate examination of a crucial conflict that marked modern history. This book goes beyond merely recounting the events of the Vietnam War, examining the far-reaching consequences and broader implications on a global scale.

Penned by esteemed scholars, this collection delves into the impact of the war in various domestic scenarios, combat and non-combat zones, as well as international politics, military tactics, and diplomacy. It also compares the Vietnam War with other monumental conflicts spanning different eras, offering a distinctive perspective on the essence of armed conflicts in the context of present-day societies.

Spanning a vast geographical expanse from Berkeley and Berlin to Cambodia and Canberra, this book employs an interdisciplinary approach, integrating political, military, cultural, and intellectual viewpoints to provide a comprehensive and truly worldwide perspective on the Vietnam War.

  • Authors: Andreas W. Daum, Lloyd C. Gardner, Wilfried Mausbach
  • Publisher: Cambridge University Press
  • Published Date: July 14, 2003
  • Page Count: 390.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

5. Elvis Costello, Joni Mitchell, and the Torch Song Tradition

Elvis Costello, Joni Mitchell, and the Torch Song Tradition | Image

Immerse yourself in the realm of two exceptional artists who made a remarkable mark on the music industry - Joni Mitchell and Elvis Costello. In "Elvis Costello, Joni Mitchell, and the Torch Song Tradition", author Larry David Smith leads readers on an enthralling expedition, delving into the potency of originality, artistic inspiration, and artistic insight in confronting the intricacies of the commercial music world.

This riveting book incorporates mesmerizing biographical details, artist insights, and critical evaluations, all encapsulating a variety of the authors' seminal works. Through Smith's comprehensive analysis, readers will discover the intriguing interplay of personal experiences and artistic perspectives in the compositions of both Joni Mitchell and Elvis Costello.

Ranging from introspective to confrontational, these two seemingly diverse songwriters unexpectedly harmonize as complementary personalities who collectively enriched the legacy of the torch song. By scrutinizing their distinct reactions to the torch song tradition and the obstacles facing the industry, "Elvis Costello, Joni Mitchell, and the Torch Song Tradition" presents a compelling and enlightening investigation into the artistry and enduring influence of two of the previous century's most emblematic musical icons.

  • Authors: Larry David Smith
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing USA
  • Published Date: April 30, 2004
  • Page Count: 332.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Music
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

6. A Companion to the Vietnam War

A Companion to the Vietnam War | Image

Dive into the heart of America's longest and most contentious foreign conflict, the Vietnam War, with "A Companion to the Vietnam War. " This comprehensive work features twenty-four definitive essays from leading scholars, offering an intriguing examination of nationalism, culture, gender, and race, all set against the backdrop of this tumultuous era. From American war policies to the Vietnamese standpoint, the antiwar movement, and the impact on the American home front, this book delves into every critical aspect of the Vietnam War. Its extensive bibliography of hundreds of secondary sources serves as a valuable guide for further exploration of this pivotal part of history.

With over 500 pages of engaging insight, "A Companion to the Vietnam War" is an essential companion for students, scholars, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this enigmatic period in modern American history.

  • Authors: Marilyn B. Young, Robert Buzzanco
  • Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
  • Published Date: April 15, 2008
  • Page Count: 528.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

7. New Perspectives on the Vietnam War

New Perspectives on the Vietnam War | Image

Re-examining the Culture and History of a Generation

"Exploring New Perspectives on the Vietnam War" invites readers on a riveting exploration through one of the most monumental conflicts of the twentieth century. This informative book, featuring chapters by esteemed experts in the field, delves into the intricate social and cultural dimensions of the war that significantly influenced America and the world.

From the role of women amidst the conflict and the powerful music and films of the era, to the Vietnamese viewpoint and the impact of race on the war, this comprehensive volume covers an extensive array of topics. It also provides insights into the experiences of veterans and their post-traumatic stress disorder, shedding light on the emotional repercussions of warfare.

This remarkable book, accompanied by captivating visuals, serves as a perfect resource for students and scholars aiming to comprehend the intricate history and enduring cultural impact of the Vietnam War. Additionally advantageous for instructors and self-learners, its extensive resources including timelines, discussion questions, and a companion website with primary source documents and tools, offer invaluable educational assistance.

Featuring thought-provoking content and a broad spectrum of topics, "Exploring New Perspectives on the Vietnam War" is essential reading for anybody seeking a deeper understanding of this critical period in history.

  • Authors: Andrew Wiest, Mary Kathryn Barbier, Glenn Robins
  • Publisher: Routledge
  • Published Date: December 16, 2009
  • Page Count: 336.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

8. The Origins of the Vietnam War

The Origins of the Vietnam War | Image

In "The Beginnings of the Vietnam War, " author A. Short guides readers on an intriguing exploration of French colonial rule's impact on the early 20th century. This thorough book ventures into the intricate dynamics of the battle between France, the United States, and Vietnamese nationalism, uncovering the underlying themes of communist ideology and the turbulent journey towards globalization. With impeccable research, this historical narrative challenges readers to reassess the errors of the past and offers precious insight into the roots of a conflict that greatly influenced the 20th century.

  • Authors: A. Short
  • Publisher: Routledge
  • Published Date: June 11, 2014
  • Page Count: 364.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

9. The Vietnam War

The Vietnam War | Image

A Documentary Reader

"The Vietnam War: A Documentary Reader" by Edward Miller delves into the intricacies of the infamous conflict that shaped America's identity. This comprehensive collection of original primary documents offers a diverse perspective, striking a balance between American and Vietnamese experiences. With exclusive content such as translations of Vietnamese-authored texts, the reader is granted an insider's view into the heart of the war.

The book also includes a range of non-textual documents, like iconic photographs and political cartoons, providing a multifaceted perspective on the war. It addresses the ongoing debates about the causes, consequences, and morality of America’s intervention with original American documents, further deepening the reader’s understanding.

With a total of 292 pages, "The Vietnam War" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of this pivotal event in history.

  • Authors: Edward Miller
  • Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
  • Published Date: January 19, 2016
  • Page Count: 292.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

10. What Caused the Vietnam War?

What Caused the Vietnam War? | Image

Discover the complexities of the Vietnam War in Sarah Levete's comprehensive and engaging book, What Caused the Vietnam War? This compelling work delves into the myriad factors that led to one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century. Explore the roots of the war, from French colonialism and the spread of Communism to the key moments that ultimately ignited combat.

Through vivid photographs, readers will gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's diverse geography, a crucial element in shaping the war's outcome. Perfect for readers of all ages, this invaluable resource offers a captivating perspective on the Vietnam War and its lasting impacts.

  • Authors: Sarah Levete
  • Publisher: Gareth Stevens Publishing LLLP
  • Published Date: July 15, 2016
  • Page Count: 50.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Nonfiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

11. What Was the Vietnam War?

What Was the Vietnam War? | Image

Delve into the complex and tragic history of the Vietnam War with Jim O'Connor's "What Was the Vietnam War? ". This thought-provoking juvenile nonfiction book takes readers on a journey to understand how the United States became involved in a war that lasted twenty years in a remote country on the other side of the world.

O'Connor explores the motivations of the five U. S. presidents who believed that American troops could end the war in Vietnam and prevent the spread of Communism in Southeast Asia. However, the human cost proved to be devastating, with the deaths of 58,000 American soldiers.

This book presents a balanced account of the involvement, the consequences, and the lasting impact of the Vietnam War on America. With a page count of 130, "What Was the Vietnam War? " offers a concise yet insightful perspective on this significant moment in recent history.

  • Authors: Jim O'Connor, Who HQ
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published Date: May 07, 2019
  • Page Count: 130.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Nonfiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

12. The First Vietnam War

The First Vietnam War | Image

In "The First Vietnam War, " author Shawn F. McHale offers a comprehensive analysis of the anticolonial war against France in Vietnam (1945-54) and the divided fate of the country's south. Drawing on extensive archival research from four countries, McHale delves into the complexities of communist-led resistance, the Viet Minh Resistance banner, and the shattering of unity among Vietnamese people. The intriguing narrative unravels the transformation of the southern Vietnamese war from a struggle against foreign occupation to an overt civil war, all while providing context on the nation's transition from colonialism to independence.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of Vietnam's early history, this first substantive English-language book on southern Vietnam is a must-read. The insightful examination of the war's impact and the divisions within the population will captivate history enthusiasts and provide valuable insights into the formation of modern Vietnam.

  • Authors: Shawn F. McHale
  • Publisher: Cambridge University Press
  • Published Date: August 26, 2021
  • Page Count: 567.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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