Choosing Courage

Brief Summary

Choosing Courage by Peter Collier explores what turns ordinary people into heroes through a collection of inspiring stories from individuals recognized by the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation. The book highlights extraordinary acts of bravery, both on the battlefield and within civilian life. From Jack Lucas, who at thirteen lied about his age to fight in World War II and later saved his fellow soldiers on Iwo Jima, to Clint Romesha, who defended a remote Army outpost in Afghanistan, the stories demonstrate pure acts of courage. Also featured are civilians like Jencie Fagan, a gym teacher who risked her life to disarm a student with a gun. Complemented by sidebars and essays, the book delves into topics such as overcoming fear and the aftermath of combat experiences.

Main Themes and Topics

The main themes in Choosing Courage revolve around heroism, bravery, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of danger. The book examines the nature of courage through detailed narratives of medal recipients and civilians who performed acts of valor. It also explores the profound impact and personal cost of such bravery, effectively portraying the psychological and emotional dimensions of courage. Themes of sacrifice, duty, and selflessness run through each account, offering readers a deeper understanding of what drives individuals to act courageously.

Writing Style and Tone

Peter Collier writes with a gripping and respectful tone that honors the stories of bravery without sensationalizing them. His writing style is clear and concise, making the subject matter accessible to a wide audience. Collier skillfully interweaves narrative storytelling with factual recounting, allowing readers to engage with both the personal and historical aspects of each story. The inclusion of sidebars and essays provides additional depth and context, enriching the reading experience.

Criticism

While Choosing Courage is praised for its inspirational content, some readers might find the format a bit repetitive due to the similar nature of the stories. Additionally, the book's focus on American heroes might limit the perspective to a primarily U.S.-centric view of courage, which could be seen as a limitation for readers interested in a more global perspective on bravery.