Search and Destroy

By: Dean Hughes

Narrated by: Kirby Heyborne

A boy discovers the complexities of conflict in this fast-paced and thoughtful look at the Vietnam War from the acclaimed author of Soldier Boys and Missing in Action.

Rick Ward wants to go to war. And he's not sure why. Maybe he's running from his dad and his crazy temper. Maybe he's running from his girl, who seems to think he's more of a joke than a man. Or maybe he's just running - to find himself. After basic training, Rick enlists with the Charlie Rangers, a special unit that ambushes the enemy in secret jungle raids. It is the most dangerous front line duty, and Rick's six-man team will experience everything from horrifying enemy encounters to mourning the death of a comrade. Rick will discover that no one - not protestors, politicians, or writers - has got a clue. And he will see that war is far bigger, scarier, and more complicated than anything he ever could have imagined.

©2006 Dean Hughes (P)2017 Recorded Books

Good story, sad narration

I read this book in High School and loved it. Just like Soldier Boys, it showed how the reality of war is not as glamorous as the myths suggest. Lots of civilians who would never serve are confused at how it changes people, but the vets understand all too well. It's not all about the glory or lackthereof attributed to combat.


That being said, I feel the narrator read this in too soft and sad a tone throughout the majority of the novel and that made it very difficult to finish listening to. Some moments it was fitting, but when it all sounds the same it drags down the experience. I know it was a Vietnam story but that doesn't mean it was all an existential depression.

Might be an unpopular opinion, and I dont mean to insult, but the narrator should lighten up a bit in future recordings.

this is an amazing book

i love hearing about people helping everyone around you no matter what their Situation or yours.

Beautiful story

The book was just amazing as the others by the author, made me even teary eye. I recommend this if you enjoy a good story. The reader was amazing at expressing the feelings and emotions throughout the book.

Great War book!

A bit of a slow start but took off like a slick. Overall great book!

Really good story line

The story line was terrific I loved the take away from the war as well great book!!!