This story, although long, will take you on a journey from the war aspect, to the shrimpin' business. It will make you feel like you have ran hundreds of miles in a pair of Nikes. It has been a awhile since I have read the book vs. the movie and I hope I do not confuse the two.
The series of emotions this books run through is amazing, yet, very real. All aspects are considered from; pain, neglect, sadness, happiness, joy, courage, strength, humansim, death, love, hope, rejection and friendship. I am sure there are a few more. This story is not one for the weak hearted; I cry everytime I read and/or watch the book/movie.
I would recommend this book to the public in general; young, elder and the young at heart. If you need an eye opening experience, this is the book for you. If you want to feel uplifted and let down only to be lifted back up again, this is the one for you.
This story takes place all over the globe. From the vietnam war, to the east and west coast and back.
It takes a look into the life of a very smart, but unappreciated man. His mother knew otherwise and many of his friends found out along the way.
For me, the message I took away from this is that we can never be fully prepared for what life has in store. Most of the time we wonder "why, did this happen to me?" Only to realize later the answer and the true meaning of life's events.
