Book details
When I Was a Soldier
Description
This is the story of Valerie as she finishes her exams, breaks up with her boyfriend and then leaves to take up her national service with the Israeli army. Nothing has prepared her for the strict routines, gruelling marches, lack of sleep, poor food, absence of privacy or crushing of initiative. However, the book also depicts the undeniable excitements of the work, including working in a 'spying centre' near Jerusalem, listening in on the communications of the Jordanian pilots.This book offers a glimpse inside another world - of a world where a teenager can worry about what she wears, how much she's eating, whether her boyfriend will call, and at the same time living in a country that is effectively at war.
Age
12-17
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
1 pages
Why to read
- Insight into Military Life: 'When I Was a Soldier' offers a rare and personal glimpse into the life of a young female soldier in the Israeli Defense Forces, providing readers with an understanding of the challenges and experiences that come with mandatory military service.
- Cultural Understanding: Through Valérie Zenatti's narrative, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for Israeli society and the complexities of living in a country where military service is a rite of passage for many young adults, fostering a greater cultural awareness.
- Personal Growth and Development: The memoir chronicles Valérie's journey from adolescence into adulthood, touching on themes of identity, responsibility, and maturity. Readers can find inspiration in her personal growth and the way she navigates the transition from civilian to soldier and back again.
- Engaging Writing Style: Zenatti's candid and reflective storytelling captivates readers, making 'When I Was a Soldier' not only an educational read but also an engaging and emotionally resonant experience that stays with the reader long after the last page is turned.