PRICE OF DUTY by Todd Strasser

Jake Liddell is about to receive the Silver Medal of Honor for his heroism in saving his fellow soldiers. After multiple surgeries for his own injuries, he has flown home to a hero's welcome. His family is proud especially his grandfather, a retired general. His town has scheduled numerous events to honor his service.

Jake is questioning the choice he made to enlist. He is remembering the encouraging words of the recruiting official who inspired him with promises of a signing bonus, the frat house brotherhood of living in the barracks, powerful weapons, tanks, and defending freedom for his country. The actual experience of life on the battlefield wasn't anything like what the recruiter promised.

The real truth included fear and pain like nothing Jake could have imagined. He lost friends, watched explosions shatter bodies, witnessed children with AK 47's give their lives to defend their families, and saw the mental torment caused by senseless violence. After learning the truth about serving on the frontlines, can Jake accept his award and complete his tour of duty as expected by his grandfather, or will he open up about what he sees as the dishonest recruitment of countless young men and women?

I recently retired as a middle/high school teacher. Military recruiters were frequent visitors to our high school cafeteria. Dressed in spotless uniforms with colorful posters and pamphlets, they enticed students to sign on the dotted line. Like Jake, I recognize the need for an active military, but at what price do we send our youth to battle? Are we honest about what their duties will include and what lasting effects their acts will carry?

Author Todd Strasser deftly explains one young man's perspective of his life on the front lines. He handles a potentially controversial subject in a manner that will speak to teen readers and adults and inspire in-depth discussions of the topic. PRICE OF DUTY is a must read, especially for any student considering the military as an option after graduation.