Positives Heonik Kwon's book receives high praise for its in-depth exploration of the aftermath of civilian massacres in central Vietnam, drawing extensively on the stories of survivors. Reviewers commend the author for unflinchingly addressing these mass murders as part of a military strategy rather than isolated incidents. The book masterfully analyzes the domestic ritual practices of villagers, illustrating how communities grappled with mass deaths and the disruption of traditional cycles due to improper burials and broken lineages. Kwon is lauded for his skillful description of how governments leverage war casualties, connecting the concept of a "war martyr" to the rise of modern states, and for highlighting the often-duplicitous legacy of war death as incorporated by the state. The work offers a fresh perspective by delving into villagers' experiences, depicting their rituals with a depth that will satisfy ethnography enthusiasts, and sheds light on the often-overlooked involvement of Korean troops in the conflict. Its contribution to Vietnam scholarship is considered valuable, tackling an underexplored topic with sensitivity, respect, and meticulous research, resulting in a well-written ethnography with strong, persuasive stories.
Negatives While overwhelmingly positive, the reviews do present a minor point of contention and a structural critique. One reviewer expresses disagreement with the author's assertion that local resistance forces rarely ambushed American troops near villages due to concerns about retaliatory violence against civilians. This reviewer posits an alternative view, suggesting that such actions might have been strategically employed to provoke American aggression and foster local resentment against foreign invaders. The only other criticism noted is the absence of a bibliography, which, despite the presence of an extensive index and notes, is considered a drawback for a scholarly work.
Conclusion Overall, the book is considered a significant and valuable contribution to existing Vietnam scholarship, praised for its unique focus and sensitive approach to a difficult subject matter. It is recognized as a meticulously researched ethnography that avoids becoming a bitter polemic, instead presenting facts and analyses with respect. Though the subject of massacres and their legacies naturally makes for a somber read, the book is highly recommended. It is primarily written for specialists in fields such as national identity, anthropology, and religion, but its clear and informative style also makes it accessible and graspable for interested lay readers seeking a deeper understanding of this complex period.
