Blog 8A

Book: Sunrise Over Fallujah
Author: Walter Dean Myers
Pages read this week: 57
Pages read this semester: 1271
Weekly Style: Questions
Summary
Robin “Birdy” Perry is from Harlem and his Civil Affairs Unit are sent to Iraq. He joined Army against the wish of his father. Robin wanted to do something for his country after 9-11. His uncle Richie had served in Vietnam War (Conflict). Robin is named “Birdy” by his fellow unit member, Marla Kennedy. Most of the soldiers go into Iraq excited. The quick war is soon over, but they face the hard realities of the situation after that. Because they belong to Civil Affairs, Robin’s unit is away from direct combat and they are there to help rebuild Iraq. However, during a search operation in An Nasiriyah, they have to kill a young boy after they were attacked. And the truth dawns on them, as Birdy questions the causes, motives and justification of this war.

Que. 1: What does the author do well as a writer?
Ans.: Walter Dean Myers has done an exceptional job of providing an insight into a much hated war so far. I loved the details he supplied about how troops are made ready for combat physically and psychologically. This book, so far, seems to be focusing on the issues that circumstances make a soldier think about. The language is neither grave nor funny. It is real. I feel as if it is happening to me. The author is presenting the correct and true image of Army and war. He probes the problems faced by both the American soldiers and common Iraqi people. Through all the incidents, he magnificently depicts the uncertainty among people on either side about the war.

Que. 2: Write a brief diary entry from the perspective of a character in your book.
Ans.: Robin Perry: The day had a bit late start. We were shocked to know that the women from 507th we had met earlier while on our way to Iraq have been held as POWs. There was als0 first big news of confirmed casualties. 507th is having a tough time in An Nasiriyah. They were supposed to be in a safe area. Later, we were asked to go there and assist the 3rd Infantry Division there. We survived a rocket attack. I think such surprise attacks are turning this war into an intrusion. The people seemed friendly; at least this is what Ahmed, our interpreter, told us. We found a RPG (Rocket Propelled Grenade) launcher in a house while searching that area. We arrested a kid, even though he and his family pleaded ignorance. While he was being taken out, some sniper tried to target us. In the confusion, the kid tried to run away but was shot dead by a soldier. I think I will never forget his face. It was so innocent. It is going to haunt me for the rest of my life.