In "Fortunate Son," Lewis B. Puller recounts his tumultuous journey as a Marine during the Vietnam War, illuminating the stark contrasts between the privileged elite and the gritty realities of frontline service. With raw honesty, Puller reflects on the challenges of living up to his family's legacy while grappling with the traumas of war. His story is a poignant exploration of sacrifice, honor, and the complexities of fate that shape a soldier's life. As he navigates the aftermath of personal and public turmoil, readers are drawn into a narrative that questions the meaning of loyalty and the weight of expectation. Will Puller find redemption amid the chaos, or will the ghosts of the past forever haunt him?
By Lewis B. Puller
Published: 1991
""In the end, it is not the fortune you inherit that defines you, but the courage you summon to face the battles of your own making.""
When Lewis Puller tripped a booby-trapped howitzer round in Vietnam, triggering a explosion that would cost him his legs, his career as a soldier ended--and the battle to reclaim his life began. "An extraordinary story of survival. And of love."--Mary Jordan, "The Washington Post."
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is an American actress, humanitarian, and author known for her role as Rachel Zane on the television series "Suits." After marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she became a prominent figure in the British royal family and an advocate for social justice and women's rights. In 2021, she published her first children's book, "The Bench," which explores the bond between fathers and sons through a mother's eyes. Markle's literary work reflects her commitment to storytelling and her passion for fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond literature, she co-founded the Archewell Foundation with Prince Harry to promote compassion and well-being globally.
Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
George Raveling is a celebrated figure in the realms of sports and literature, best known for his profound impact on basketball and his contributions as an author and speaker. As a pioneering African American coach, he broke barriers in collegiate basketball, notably serving as the head coach at Washington State, Iowa, and USC. Raveling is also renowned for his profound influence off the court, particularly as a Nike executive and motivational speaker. His literary contributions include "Coaching for Success," a book that blends his coaching philosophy with life lessons. Additionally, Raveling is a custodian of an important historical artifact—an original copy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, which he obtained while volunteering at the 1963 March on Washington.
Sophie Bakalar is a distinguished author and venture capitalist known for her adept storytelling and insightful exploration of contemporary issues. Her debut novel received critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and societal dynamics. In addition to her literary achievements, Bakalar is a co-founder of a successful venture firm, where she leverages her keen understanding of market trends and innovation. Her essays and articles, often featured in prominent publications, reflect her deep engagement with cultural and technological shifts. Bakalar's multifaceted career bridges the worlds of literature and entrepreneurship, making her a unique voice in both fields.
Michelle Obama is an American attorney, author, and former First Lady of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. She is widely recognized for her advocacy on issues such as education, military families, healthy eating, and poverty awareness. Her memoir, "Becoming," published in 2018, has been a global bestseller and acclaimed for its insightful and inspiring narrative. Michelle Obama has also launched initiatives like "Let’s Move!" to combat childhood obesity and the "Reach Higher" campaign to encourage higher education. Her work continues to influence and empower millions around the world.
Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.
Showing 8 of 22 related collections
“"In the end, it is not the fortune you inherit that defines you, but the courage you summon to face the battles of your own making."”
Fortunate Son
By Lewis B. Puller
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Lewis B. Puller was a renowned American author and Vietnam War veteran, celebrated for his candid and poignant reflections on the complexities of war and its aftermath. His most notable works include 'Fortunate Son,' a memoir that intricately weaves his personal experiences with the broader social and political implications of the Vietnam War, and 'Looking for a Hero,' which captures the struggles of soldiers and the search for reconciliation. Puller’s writing is characterized by its raw honesty and introspective nature, often blending personal narrative with historical analysis, which resonates deeply with readers seeking understanding of the human condition in times of conflict.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Psychology of Money," Morgan Housel unravels the complex relationship between our emotions and financial decisions. Through captivating anecdotes and profound insights, he reveals that wealth isn't just about numbers, but about behavior and mindset. The book challenges conventional wisdom, urging readers to understand the subtle psychological forces that influence our spending and saving habits. Housel's reflections highlight the power of patience, humility, and a long-term perspective in building true financial success. Prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about money and its role in your life!
In 'The Art of Loving', Erich Fromm explores love as an art that requires practice and devotion, not just a feeling. He dissects the misconceptions of modern love, revealing how consumerism and selfishness hinder genuine connections. Fromm categorizes different types of love, including romantic, familial, and self-love, emphasizing their importance in achieving personal fulfillment and societal harmony. His insightful analysis challenges readers to reflect on their approach to love and relationships. This thought-provoking work invites you to rethink what it truly means to love and be loved.
In '우리아이 첫 해외여행', author 전혜원 takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the eyes of a child experiencing their first international trip. The book beautifully captures the wonder and excitement of discovering new cultures, foods, and landscapes. With each page, children and parents alike are invited to explore the power of curiosity and adventure. Seamlessly blending travel tips with captivating storytelling, it inspires families to embark on their own global adventures. Will this be the first of many journeys, or the beginning of a lifelong passion for exploration?
In 'The Sales Acceleration Formula', Mark Roberge unveils a revolutionary approach to scaling sales in the digital age. Drawing from his success at HubSpot, he provides a data-driven strategy that transforms traditional sales methods. Roberge emphasizes the importance of hiring, training, and managing sales teams through innovative metrics and technology. This compelling blueprint is designed not just for sales leaders but for anyone looking to refine their business strategies. Are you ready to supercharge your sales and outsmart the competition?
In 'Merchants of Doubt', Naomi Oreskes and Erik M. Conway unravel a web of deception spun by influential scientists who distorted the truth about various scientific issues, from tobacco smoke to climate change. This compelling narrative reveals how these figures leveraged their credibility to cast doubt on overwhelming evidence, hindering public understanding and policy action. The authors delve into the psychological and historical factors that enabled this manipulation of science for personal and political gain. With meticulous research and captivating storytelling, they confront the consequences of skepticism misused. Uncover the hidden battle between truth and doubt in a world where information is often weaponized.
No summary available
In 'Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order', Ray Dalio reveals the intricate patterns governing global shifts and power dynamics. Drawing on historical precedents and economic principles, he uncovers the cyclical nature of empires and their eventual decline. Dalio emphasizes the importance of understanding these principles to navigate the complexities of today's fast-evolving world. With a mix of personal anecdotes and rigorous analysis, he equips readers with tools to adapt and thrive amidst uncertainty. This thought-provoking exploration invites you to reconsider what the future may hold and how to prepare for it.
In 'Savage Son' by Jack Carr, ex-Navy SEAL James Reece faces the ultimate test of survival after a deadly betrayal plunges him into the heart of the Russian wilderness. As he navigates a world filled with ruthless adversaries and cunning traps, Reece is driven by a singular mission: vengeance. The story unfolds with relentless action and intricate plots, exploring the dark depths of humanity and the primal instincts within. With every turn, readers are drawn into a gripping tale of loyalty, honor, and the indomitable spirit of a warrior. Will Reece emerge from the shadows stronger than ever, or will the savage world consume him?