The Edge of the Sword Book

John Crawford was newly married when his National Guard unit was shipped to Baghdad in time for the first wave of invasions in the most recent U.S. project against Iraq. As a member of the National Guard, he should have only been overseas for a couple of months. Instead, Crawford fought for over a year before being sent home. This book tells some of the things he experienced while stationed in Baghdad.

Crawford took his title from the fact that he never wants to tell another true story because they are too depressing and messed up. When he eventually did come home, no one understood what he had been through; he didn't want to let them in on it. This is not a happy book: it is graphic, disturbing, and angry. But it is a necessary commentary on the recent steps of the United States. If you are anti-war, this book will help you feel justified. If you are pro-war (at least pro-this one), this book will not change your mind. But it will make you think.