Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk (Signed First Edition)

Ben Fountain

Published by Ecco, New York, 2012

First Edition, First Printing (Stated First Edition with complete number line to 1). Both the book and dust jacket are in FINE, UNREAD condition. Signed by the author directly on the title page. No inscription. A crisp, like new example. Additional photos available on request. Orders are always shipped well packaged in a sturdy box. Includes The Book Passage's First Edition Club information letter laid in. "Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk" gained acclaim for its astute exploration of the impact of war on soldiers and the stark contrast between the realities of combat and the superficiality of American society. The story unfolds over the course of a single day as Bravo Squad, a group of soldiers who achieved hero status after a harrowing battle in Iraq, is brought home for a victory tour. The climax of their tour is an extravagant Thanksgiving Day halftime show during a Dallas Cowboys football game. As the soldiers navigate the glitzy and hyper-patriotic world of the halftime show, the stark contrast between the sanitized image of war presented to the public and the brutal reality of combat becomes increasingly evident. At the heart of the novel is the protagonist, Billy Lynn, a young soldier who grapples with the dissonance between the public's perception of heroism and the personal toll of war. The narrative is driven by Billy's internal struggles as he tries to reconcile the expectations placed on him with the traumatic experiences he and his comrades have endured. Fountain skillfully uses humor and satire to dissect the cultural phenomena surrounding war and heroism. The novel delves into the commodification of bravery, the exploitation of soldiers for political purposes, and the disconnect between the civilian population and those who have served in combat. The author's wit and keen observations make for a compelling and thought-provoking read. The characters in "Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk" are richly developed, each representing different facets of the American experience. From the Hollywood producer eager to turn their story into a blockbuster film to the patriotic football fans who view the soldiers as symbols rather than individuals, Fountain captures a diverse range of perspectives. Through these characters, he exposes the contradictions and complexities inherent in the American response to war. The novel also explores the psychological toll of combat on soldiers, portraying the challenges they face in reintegrating into society. The stark contrast between the camaraderie of Bravo Squad and the superficial interactions they have with civilians highlights the isolation and alienation experienced by many veterans. Fountain's prose is both evocative and incisive, capturing the emotional depth of the characters and the absurdity of the situations they find themselves in. The novel's structure, set against the backdrop of the halftime show, adds a sense of urgency and tension to the narrative. In conclusion, "Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that examines the intersection of war, heroism, and American culture. Ben Fountain's keen insights and masterful storytelling make this a compelling read that resonates long after the final page. The novel challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable truths about war and the societal expectations placed on those who have experienced it firsthand. Seller Inventory # 181

Bibliographic Details

Title: Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk (Signed ...
Publisher: Ecco, New York
Publication Date: 2012
Binding: Hardcover
Dust Jacket Condition: Dust Jacket Included
Signed: Signed by Author(s)
Edition: 1st Edition