July 14, 2008

Book Review - Army Wives

"This is a true story about what happens when real life collides with army convention." Biank shares the story of four Army wives. Whether married to officers or enlisted men, Biank continually stresses that these women are not stereotypes, but rather unique, complex, resourceful, and strong individuals striving to define themselves within a culture of tradition and protocols. Biank approaches this book as an embedded reporter, both writing professionally for the Fayetteville Observer and as an Army wife and mother living at Fort Bragg. Sge reveals the support network that exists in military communities, but also shows that it has gaps and break-downs. She shows friendships between women, but also jealousy and back-biting. She exposes the pride of the Army, but also shows its secrets that many would prefer to remain hidden. The book is revealing about Army culture, but even more telling about the women who adjust their lives to accommodate it because of the love they feel for their soldier husbands.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Army Wives: The Unwritten Code of Military Marriage
Tanya Biank
UB 403 .B53 2006