In The Things They Carried, by Tim O’Brien, the main character named Lieutenant Jimmy Cross serves in the Vietnam War. During the time in which Jimmy Cross serves, he struggles to face the many burdens of being a soldier which include both mental and physical struggles. The biggest mental challenge for Jimmy is his guilt. When Ted Lavender, a soldier that Jimmy was in charge of dies as a result of Jimmy’s distraction, Jimmy becomes distraught. In this situation, Jimmy’s guilt teaches him a lesson because he learns to stay focused on his job. On the other hand, every decision that Jimmy makes now causes him to think about the death of Lavender. Jimmy also faces decisions during this novel. For example, Jimmy contemplates crossing the Canadian border to run away from being sent away to the war. Jimmy realizes that he would not be able to face the guilt of this action and stays. Throughout the book, Jimmy deals with pain a person should never have to experience. His morals are questioned at every turn in his journey. This novel takes you on the path of war through the mindset of a soldier.
Written by Arianna, Teen Volunteer
CBPL Reviews 