Lone Survivor

Lone Survivor Book Review

by Daniel S

For HFLC last quarter, I read the memoir Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell. This was an extremely well written book that hooks the reader in and makes him want to read to the finish. This book is about how Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell was stranded in the Afghan mountains for eight days after the rest of his four-man team had been killed on their mission. Marcus was pushed to his limits fighting off the Taliban: injured, scared, and alone. This memoir describes the crucible Marcus was forced to persevere and how he kept fighting to make it back home.

This book had its strengths and weaknesses. Marcus did an incredible job setting up the book, making the reader feel attached to each character and have a clear picture of the situation. Marcus also explained each detail thoroughly, making sure that the reader does not get confused or lost.  By including details of his family's and the nation's reaction and response to the events in the book, he created an entire atmosphere roping the reader in. The greatest strength of this book was its ability to make you feel like you were actually there in the mountains with Marcus through his incredible use of language and sensory details. 

Although he did an excellent job of opening the book, Marcus did not include the most well written ending. I felt like he blew through too much material too fast. He could have slowed down and explained what he did after he returned to the U.S. in more detail. This book might only appeal to a select audience as well. People who enjoy a happier and laid back book may not enjoy Lone Survivor.

Overall, this book is an amazing story of triumph, bravery, and the human will to never give up. It will give inspiration and courage to anyone who reads it. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in the armed forces or enjoys overcoming the odds stories. In the end, this book has become one of my favorites and is definitely worth the read.