I don't usually post reviews of fiction that I read, but after finishing "Sparta" by Roxana Robinson I decided I should let others know about this novel, which is the most powerful book I've seen in recent memory.  Robinson recounts the story of a young man, Conrad, who majors in classical studies at Williams College and then decides he wants to join the Marines when he graduates.  Neither his family, which lives comfortably in Westchester County, nor his his friends can understand this decision.  The tale unfolds primarily in two areas: Iraq, where Conrad serves in combat, and New York City/Westchester, to which he returns after four years of war.  The author moves us around in time and space, as we discover the horrors of Conrad's experiences as a Marine and then follow his psychologically painful return to civilian life.  As I followed his emotional struggles, I felt deeply moved by his plight.  Robinson describes Conrad's inner feelings with much insight and does so without using cheap sentimentality.  She makes the reader feel the crippling power of the emotions that confront Conrad.  This certainly is not a "fun" book that will entertain you.  But if you want some real insights into what our young veterans face, this is a must read.

With help from my cousin Hans, I think I've now set up my blog site, and I hope these first few words will actually be published on my site.