Places and Names

This is a frustrating but ultimately rewarding listen. The audiobook focuses on author/narrator Ackerman's return to the Middle East, where he fought as a Marine. He explains in a sympathetic tone the many complexities of life and war in that region. His account of the second battle of Fallujah is extraordinary--as was his heroism. What is frustrating is that Ackerman does not sound like an experienced narrator. He does a fine job narrating, but one can't help wondering how much more powerful his story would be if it were delivered by a professional. This point is driven home when Mark Deakins narrates Ackerman's Silver Star commendation. But despite this quibble, the listener will undoubtedly be deeply moved by Ackerman's story. J.P.S. � AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine