THE NORTH

This novel illustrates one family’s struggles on two fronts during an increasingly unpopular war.

In this fifth volume of the Jon and Teresa Zachery series, the Vietnam War is ramping up again in 1972. Teresa is handling the homefront at a naval base in California with three young children to distract her from her fears for her Navy pilot husband, Jon, code-named Stretch. Meanwhile, Jon is aboard the aircraft carrier USS Solomons, headed across the Pacific for his second deployment to Vietnam. He wrestles with his doubts as he recalls his first tour as converting jungle trees into toothpicks in South Vietnam. But the new policy is to mine Haiphong Harbor and take the fight to “The North,” which feels more worthwhile to Jon, as if the United States is trying to win the war. Much of the book is told through letters between Jon and Teresa, with her supporting him and him downplaying the dangers he faces. Readers are introduced to the much-respected Jon’s fellow pilots through their interactions between missions. Jon’s particular cross to bear is his roommate, Blackey, whose ego is barely exceeded by his piloting skills. The narrative hinges on Blackey’s disobeying orders on a mission with Jon, putting the protagonist in peril. But that crisis does set up Jon’s next chapter. Zerr, a longtime naval aviator, flew 330 combat missions over Vietnam. Thus, this sobering series has a strong authenticity regarding daily activities both aboard the carrier and at home. On the flip side, the author goes heavy on the military jargon, making the glossary in the back of the novel indispensable. In addition, there are a lot of players to keep track of, so the character list comes in handy. Zerr also places the Zacherys’ Christian faith front and center, as that helps them to temper their dread. This is a refreshing tack to follow amid the terrors of war. In this engrossing and moving work, the author emphasizes the point that war can be hell both for those overseas and their loved ones at home.

This engaging drama offers a stirring exploration of a family embroiled in the Vietnam War.