Valleys of Death

In 'Valleys of Death', authors Bill Richardson and Kevin Maurer unveil the gripping true stories of soldiers and Marines who faced the brutal realities of war in Afghanistan. Through a series of harrowing personal accounts, they explore the complexities of courage, sacrifice, and survival in one of the world's most perilous landscapes. As vivid narratives unfold, readers experience the intense emotional battles fought alongside the physical ones. This powerful work not only honors the lives lost but also questions the very nature of conflict and heroism. Prepare for a deep dive into the heart of chaos, where every decision can mean the difference between life and death.

By Bill Richardson, Kevin Maurer

Published: 2011

"In the heart of conflict, the true battle is not just for survival, but for the spirit that gives us strength to rise from our despair."

Valleys of DeathBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

"Richardson never pulls his punches in these vivid descriptions." --Publishers Weekly Caught in the Chinese counterattack at Unsan-one of the deadliest American battles of the Cold War Era-Colonel Bill Richardson led an Alamo like defense of the few survivors before being taken prisoner. The North Koreans marched them through sub-zero weather without food, shelter, or medical attention to the area known as Death Valley. Enduring torture designed to break the mind and body, Richardson remained strong enough to lead his fellow prisoners in resistance, sabotage, and new plans for escape. Valleys of Death is a stirring story of survival and determination, an intimate look at the soldiers who fought America's first battle of the cold war in the unvarnished words of one of their own.

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Valleys of Death

About the Authors

B

Bill Richardson

Bill Richardson is a celebrated Canadian author, politician, and broadcaster known for his engaging storytelling and keen observations of human nature. He has penned several award-winning books, including the acclaimed children's series "Small Hoot" and "The Fan Tale." Richardson's writing often blends humor and warmth, appealing to both younger audiences and adults, and is characterized by its rich language and vivid imagery. In addition to his literary works, he has made substantial contributions to Canadian literature as a cultural commentator and advocate for the arts.

K

Kevin Maurer

Kevin Maurer is a seasoned author and journalist known for his immersive storytelling and compelling narratives. His notable works include "No Easy Day," a gripping account of the Navy SEAL operation that killed Osama bin Laden, co-authored with Mark Owen, and "The Last Place on Earth," an exploration of the brutal survival stories of military veterans. Maurer's writing style is characterized by precise detail and deep character studies, often bringing to life the experiences of those in high-stakes situations. A respected voice in military literature, he has contributed to various publications and is recognized for his ability to navigate complex subjects with clarity and authenticity.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Bill Richardson, Kevin Maurer
Published
October 2011
Publisher
Penguin
ISBN
0425243184
Language
English
Pages
354
Genres
Biographies of Historical FiguresBiographyHistoryMilitary History

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Topics in Advanced Scientific ComputationBook binding

Topics in Advanced Scientific Computation

Richard E. Crandall

Life is ElsewhereBook binding

Life is Elsewhere

Milan Kundera

The ShallowsBook binding

The Shallows

Nicholas Carr

Bataan Death MarchBook binding

Bataan Death March

James Bollich

Excursion to HellBook binding

Excursion to Hell

Vincent Bramley

On BullshitBook binding

On Bullshit

Harry G. Frankfurt

SynchronicityBook binding

Synchronicity

C. G. Jung

Black is The New WhiteBook binding

Black is The New White

Paul Mooney, Dave Chappelle

Other Men's FlowersBook binding

Other Men's Flowers

A.P. Wavell

Fighting PowerBook binding

Fighting Power

Martin Van Creveld

The Far PavilionsBook binding

The Far Pavilions

M. M. Kaye

The Direction of WarBook binding

The Direction of War

Hew Strachan

American CaesarBook binding

American Caesar

William Manchester

Defeat Into VictoryBook binding

Defeat Into Victory

William Joseph Slim Slim (Viscount)

UnbrokenBook binding

Unbroken

Laura Hillenbrand

The Forgotten SoldierBook binding

The Forgotten Soldier

Guy Sajer

The Dispensable NationBook binding

The Dispensable Nation

Vali Nasr

Invisible Armies: An Epic History of Guerrilla Warfare from Ancient Times to the PresentBook binding

Invisible Armies: An Epic History of Guerrilla Warfare from Ancient Times to the Present

Max Boot

The Folded ClockBook binding

The Folded Clock

Heidi Julavits

Joseph McCarthyBook binding

Joseph McCarthy

Arthur Herman

The Fatal ConceitBook binding

The Fatal Conceit

Cutting Through Spiritual MaterialismBook binding

Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism

Chogyam Trungpa

The Soul of MoneyBook binding

The Soul of Money

Lynne Twist, Teresa Barker

The Ministry of Special CasesBook binding

The Ministry of Special Cases

Nathan Englander

What is the whatBook binding

What is the what

Dave Eggers

Why They Can't WriteBook binding

Why They Can't Write

John Warner

The Miracle MorningBook binding

The Miracle Morning

Hal Elrod

AsylumBook binding

Asylum

William Seabrook

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

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.

View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection
Tom Hanks's Book Recommendations

Tom Hanks's Book Recommendations

Tom Hanks is an acclaimed American actor and filmmaker, renowned for his versatile roles in iconic films such as "Forrest Gump," "Saving Private Ryan," and "Cast Away." Beyond his cinematic achievements, Hanks has made significant contributions to literature, notably with his collection of short stories titled "Uncommon Type," which showcases his talent as a writer. His storytelling prowess extends to his work as a producer and director, where he has brought numerous historical and literary adaptations to life. Hanks's dedication to his craft has earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards for Best Actor. Additionally, his engaging narrative style and keen insight into human experiences have solidified his reputation as a multifaceted artist in both film and literature.

View Collection
Marc Andreessen's Book Recommendations

Marc Andreessen's Book Recommendations

Marc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.

View Collection
Rami Malek's Book Recommendations

Rami Malek's Book Recommendations

Rami Malek is an American actor known for his Emmy-winning role in Mr. Robot and his Academy Award-winning portrayal of Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody. Malek’s performance as the Queen frontman brought him international acclaim and solidified his place in Hollywood. He is known for taking on complex, challenging roles and bringing a unique intensity to his performances. In addition to acting, Malek is involved in various charitable causes, particularly those related to education and refugee rights. His versatility and dedication have made him one of the most sought-after actors of his generation.

View Collection
Tom Hiddleston's Book Recommendations

Tom Hiddleston's Book Recommendations

Tom Hiddleston is a renowned British actor celebrated for his versatile performances across stage and screen. While best known for his portrayal of Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Hiddleston has also made significant contributions to literature through his involvement in audiobook narrations and adaptations of classic works, such as "The Red Necklace" by Sally Gardner. A classically trained actor from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), he has performed in numerous Shakespearean productions, bringing timeless literary characters to life. Hiddleston's eloquent voice and deep understanding of literary texts have earned him acclaim in both the acting and literary communities. Beyond his performances, he engages in philanthropic efforts, often supporting educational initiatives that promote literature and the arts.

View Collection
James Mattis's Book Recommendations

James Mattis's Book Recommendations

James Mattis is a retired United States Marine Corps general and former Secretary of Defense, serving under President Donald Trump from 2017 to 2019. Mattis is known for his military leadership during the Iraq War and his command of U.S. Central Command, where he oversaw operations in the Middle East. He is widely respected for his intellectual rigor, strategic thinking, and emphasis on military ethics. After retiring from the military, Mattis has written books, including Call Sign Chaos, reflecting on his leadership experiences. His career has made him a highly regarded figure in both military and civilian leadership circles.

View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

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.

View Collection
Anna Kendrick's Book Recommendations

Anna Kendrick's Book Recommendations

Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.

View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.

View Collection
Ryan Holiday's Book Recommendations

Ryan Holiday's Book Recommendations

Ryan Holiday is a bestselling author and media strategist known for his books on stoicism, including The Obstacle Is the Way and Ego Is the Enemy. He is a leading voice in modern stoic philosophy, teaching readers how to apply ancient wisdom to achieve personal and professional success. Holiday’s work emphasizes resilience, discipline, and humility as keys to navigating life’s challenges. He has consulted with major companies and individuals on marketing and strategy, blending stoic principles with contemporary business practices. His books have been translated into over 30 languages.

View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection
Austen Allred's Book Recommendations

Austen Allred's Book Recommendations

Austen Allred is an influential entrepreneur and author, best known for his contributions to the education technology sector. He co-founded Lambda School, a groundbreaking online coding bootcamp that offers deferred tuition and has revolutionized access to tech education. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Allred is the author of "The Grassfed Startup," which provides insights into building sustainable businesses. His innovative approach to education has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the tech industry. Allred continues to inspire with his commitment to making high-quality education accessible to all.

View Collection
Noam Chomsky's Book Recommendations

Noam Chomsky's Book Recommendations

Noam Chomsky, born December 7, 1928, is an influential American linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, historian, and social critic. He revolutionized the field of linguistics with his theory of generative grammar, particularly through his seminal work, "Syntactic Structures" (1957). Chomsky's contributions extend beyond linguistics to political activism, where he is known for his critiques of U.S. foreign policy and media, encapsulated in works like "Manufacturing Consent" (1988). As a professor emeritus at MIT, his interdisciplinary approach has significantly impacted cognitive science, philosophy of language, and political thought. Chomsky remains a prolific author and speaker, continuing to shape academic and public discourses.

View Collection
Bret Victor's Book Recommendations

Bret Victor's Book Recommendations

Bret Victor is a renowned American interface designer and computer scientist celebrated for his innovative contributions to interactive design and human-computer interaction. He is best known for creating dynamic, explorable explanations, which have significantly influenced the way educational content is presented and understood. Victor's seminal work, "Inventing on Principle," advocates for the integration of immediate feedback in creative processes, inspiring a new wave of interactive programming environments. As a former member of the Apple Human Interface team, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern user interfaces. Through his organization, Dynamicland, Victor continues to explore and expand the boundaries of immersive, collaborative computing environments.

View Collection

In the heart of conflict, the true battle is not just for survival, but for the spirit that gives us strength to rise from our despair.

Valleys of Death

By Bill Richardson, Kevin Maurer

Frequently Asked Questions