Customer Reviews

Soldier in the Rain

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

...they would be Eustis and Maxwell. Soldier was written about 25 years before Butch Cassidy and the Sundance kid was released, set on a then present-day Army base in the south. It's both a "buddy" and "coming of age" story about two apparently opposite sergeants united against the larger world, and their eventual coming to grips with it. Terrific characterizations: imagine if they made a movie of this way back when, starring, say, Steve McQueen and Jackie Gleason - both in their primes - in the starring roles; it would make Butch Cassidy seem like a Disney flick in comparison. Thanks, Billy Goldman; you always knew what would entertain us and make us look at ourselves. We just needed the time to get ready to do so.

I titled this review such becuse Goldman creates a story with a wonderful setting, fantastic characters and no structured plot. Sienfeld's idea was not unique, Goldman carries it off brilantly. You will laugh out loud, and you'll fall in love with Eustis Clay and Maxwell Slaughter. I am genuenly sad that I had to say good bye to my friends Eustis and Maxwell at the end of this book, and I can't help but wonder what ever became of ole Eustis anyhow? You'll wonder to, like a old friend who you've gotten out of touch with but remember fondly. Hey Goldman, write the screenplay so I can see my friends again!

I read it every year. Catch 22 but with so much more heart. In my opinion, the best final chapter ever written. A mans struggle with so many things he has no control over and his final confrontation with that world. The last paragraph brings tears to my eyes every time. Not just smile worthy, but literally laugh out loud funny. Clever and witty and so engaging. Cannot say enough good things about this book.

It is comedic as well as having it's touching moments, a very good read.