Wonderful little unexpected gem that i read in less than one day. First-hand accounting of a reporter embedded with a small company on Guadalcanal in the Pacific for several days during World War II. A rather unexpectedly ferocious battle that did not necessarily go well occurs and Hersey simply and humanly captures the scents, the feel, the sounds, the fear and the reality of what that was like for the soldiers and their capable leader before, during, and especially after the event. My hardcover edition from the period is full of beautiful pencil drawings of Marines in action from a soldier that definitely complemented the story as it was being told. It once again further cements the undying respect I have for all who choose to put on a uniform for our country. These Marines in this book all signed up to be Marines, they were not drafted. Their courage and willingness to die for a cause greater than themselves is and will always be inspiring to me. Thank you to Hersey and thank you to all who do and have worn a uniform!!!! ( )

123. Into the Valley, by John Hersey (read __ ___ 1943) This was one of the first Pocket Books, in the days when paperbacks were largely unknown, at least to me. I bought this book for a quarter, as I remember. It tells of Guadalcanal, and I thought it was a slogging read and did not especially enjoy the book. ( )

John Hersey joins a company of Marines going into battle on Guadalcanal. He follows them into the valley. Wonderful description of leadership and the roles played by members of a company on the march. Literate; authentic, moving dialogue. ( )