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Book Review of The World Played Chess: A Novel

The World Played Chess: A Novel
smileen avatar reviewed on + 250 more book reviews


This story was told in three part harmony. Sometimes I wonder if I should read each part by dates and it will all come together at the end! The 60's is told by William, and involves his time in Viet Nam. The 70's is told by Vince, who meets William while in high school and deciding what to do with his life. 2016 had Vince as the father of a teenage son and daughter, their lives, and reconnecting with William. The connections are great, and link everything together, of course. There is one chapter where the author becomes very religious. I remember someone saying that about his other wonderful book The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell. I didn't remember it from that story-but it was sure obvious here. The Viet Nam parts were very gritty and emotional. This was recommended for book club. It was a worthy read.