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Potpourri of War: Labors of Love Remembered

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Noonie Fortin follows up her successful book, "Memories of Maggie," (about the life and legend of entertainer Marta Raye) with "Potpourri Of War." For those of us who loved reading that memoir of Colonel Maggie and are still hungry for more personal stories and antidotes about her life and the people she influenced--then this is the book you have been waiting for!

Noonie takes us at times across country on her book tours to meet and learn about people and places that are related to the Vietnam War and in particular, dealing with old "Big Mouth" herself. From all the stories you cannot help but see how much she came to be loved by veterans of that era.

There are several small bios mixed into the book like one would carefully mix a powerful herb or spice into a pot of stew; just enough to add some sharp and savory flavors to the well written structure of controlled rambling prose that is already cooking with lots of LOVE.

This book is best read as a companion to her first book on Martha Raye but it can be read alone. An easy-to-read and entertaining book that at times makes one feel as if you are eaves dropping in on a conversation in the kitchen or living room of close friends.

Potpourri Of War: Labors Of Love Remembered is the story of Americans who were not "career military" but who loved their country and everything that America has come to stand for within the community of civilized nations. This compelling volume of wartime reminiscences ranges from the stunning to the fondly nostalgic to the profound. Here are the stories of the women of World War II -- the USO performers, military personnel, Red Cross Workers, Hollywood celebrities, as well as the legions of mothers of sons and daughters gave up their lives in the defense of their country on far flung battlefields. Potpourri Of War is a timely and much needed contribution -- both as a remembrance of things past, and a clarion reminder of how we can meet the demands of war that have suddenly come upon us in our own time.

I really loved reading about women who put their lives on the line, they are true hero's.

I think it is a good book and well worth reading. The part that has really grabbed me and not let go is Susan Christiansen's story...this story [and others included] will help people understand not only the women's problems but also the men's problems with memories...as a result of the Vietnam War. You wrote to the readers, not "down to " them. The section you devoted to the history of the Vietnam War...is a necessary part of your book. There are young people today who have no knowledge whatsoever of that War or that period in our history. You have done a good, professional job of writing.

It is a great joy to see someone recognizing the work that women did for this country. It is equally sad to read of the many lives that were lost. Thank you for bringing this to the forefront and making us aware of their sacrifices. I for one have never been aware of "Colonel Maggie's" extensive contributions to entertaining and working with our ttroops. I will spread the word. Thanks Noonie.

It is a "potpourri"--"a miscellaneous collection," as Webster States.

It opens with a copy of a General W. C. Westmoreland letter commenting on the author's previous book, "Memories of Maggie"...

"Potpourri Of War" then focuses on war--including such topics as women in the military, first-hand stories by Veterans who have been there, insights into the life of Martha Raye, and more.

Author Noonie Fortin writes in a charming, personable, enthusiastic, readable style. She writes with authority and experience.