Brats

Children of American Military Speak Out

Herself an Army brat--the daughter of a general--Truscott interviewed more than three dozen survivors of that special experience. Because of the constant moving imposed by the military on employees, their children tend to develop few lasting friendships, and so grow unusually close to their siblings, she observes. Their peripatetic lives also bring problems in that some brats have to restudy material they had already covered earlier. Many fathers, the book asserts, are autocratic, exacting a military-style discipline at home which, since they are often separated from their families, is all the harder to accept. But above all, the life of an army child is a very private one, kept apart 'kept apart'? (separated used prev. sent.) from "alien" civilian society. Truscott offers no earthshaking revelations, but much interesting reading. Author tour.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Few careers have as strong an impact on a family as the military. Truscott, herself the daughter of a general, interviewed over 40 now-grown "brats." They discuss the details of their childhoods: long separations, frequent moves, discipline, and the pervading rhythms of life on a military base. A recurring theme is the inability to get close to anyone outside the family, and the reticence it engendered. This reticence is apparent in the book. The interviewees gloss over personal problems and reveal little about the personalities behind the anecdotes. Truscott draws no conclusions, but lets the memories speak for themselves. Her interviewees remember good things and bad, but most seem to feel that the overall experience was positive. Fascinating for both military and civilian readers.
- Susan B . Hagloch, Tuscarawas Cty. P.L., New Philadelphia, Ohio
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.