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Randy's Reviews > Gates of Fire

Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield
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it was amazing
bookshelves: military

Gates of Fire is one of my favorite books...ever. I first read it back when I was in the Marine Corps. It was on the Commandant鈥檚 Reading List for a time - required reading for any motivated teufelhund. The author himself is a former Marine, and draws upon his experiences to create a compellingly insightful look at the mental and psychological makeup of a soldier. The concepts of self-sacrifice, service, community, camaraderie, and duty are the thematic core of this historic novel. Steven Pressfield does more than just tell the story of what happened during the battle of Thermopylae (which in and of itself is a phenomenal story), he uses it as a backdrop for studying the psychological makeup of what a soldier should be. There is more philosophy in this book than one would expect from a war novel, but this is why I consider it both insightful, and at times inspiring鈥ven after the fifth read. This is a great book for anyone who is thinking of, or soon will be joining military service. Anyone wishing to gain insight on how a military is supposed to function should read this book. Anyone wishing insight to the mind of a soldier should read this book. Those who are confused as to why a friend or loved one wants to join the military can very likely gain their answers from this book.
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Reading Progress

Started Reading
January 1, 1991 – Finished Reading
January 26, 2008 – Shelved
December 18, 2008 – Shelved as: military

Comments Showing 1-13 of 13 (13 new)

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Matthew Great insight into what a modern soldier should be.


Scott I agree with your review of the book. I am not in the military and I always wondered why the military attracts young men. This book helped me see the all the reasons why the military makes men. Your review is the best synopsis that I've read.


message 3: by Nate (last edited Jan 21, 2010 09:42PM) (new)

Nate Perry I couldn't agree more... when i first picked up this book, i was blown away by the strong dialogue and intense imagery... the tale of the struggle of the 300 spartans is one of my most cherished stories... excellent review...Pressfield does an excellent job at depicting the soldiers of this time...

P.S. even more respect for the whole marine corps thing!!!


 ~*~Princess Nya Vasiliev~*~ Thanks for your review. I've been thinking of reading this one recently.


Becky My son (who is in the Marines now) told me to read this book while he was still in college (VMI) The only thing I would add is that all women of warriors should read this book.


John Misoulis I just enlisted in the Corps and this book was mentioned in "The Unforgiving Minute." I put it on my pre-bootcamp reading list and was not disappointed. Didn't know the author was a Marine though. Do you have and recommendations for a future Marine.


Nick X well said


alf fjel baardsen I'm new to this app and can't figure out, looking for help to finish this great book but need help on how to finish reading it


message 9: by Malley (new) - added it

Malley Hi I was wondering where I can find the Commandant鈥檚 Reading List down through the years, just for a recommendation


Mirella Absolutely loved this book. It took a historical battle and molded it into a novel of passion, perseverance, love, drama, and undying patriotism and comradery. There were quotes in the book that any reader could find inspiration to. Highly recommend.


Nikola Jankovic Well, it was a bit over-romantic look on it, don't tou think?


Chuckdee Randy- your review nailed it


message 13: by Zach (new) - rated it 5 stars

Zach Hell yeah!


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