American Mourning: The Intimate Story of Two Families Joined by War--Torn by Beliefs

It's about time someone reveal what is really happening with the troops and Iraq. The left would like you to believe this book is NOT about the courageous soldiers fighting for our freedom. They want you to think it is just a hatchett job of Mrs. Sheehan. It is not. Sure, her dirty past is brought up, if only to show that she is a lying hyopocrit. But I doubt those of the left have even read this fine book. Instead, this book is about two young men who gave the ultimate sacrifice so you and I can read and discuss issues that are illegal in most muslim countries.

An excellent read. Reveals the true story behind the far left's manipulation and funding of the anti-war movement and Sheehan. It also shows how true Americans, soldiers and their families are proud of thier country and its soldiers. A must read.

I am currently working an assignment in Waco, TX. Last year I had the opportunity to visit the site where Cindy and her flock were protesting near the Bush ranch. I could not believe some of the words on the signs and the sides of busses and cars. I thought I was back in the 60s at Berkeley where students who knew nothing about what they were protesting did so because it was the thing to do. I feel sorry for MS. Sheehan and her loss but have lost all respect for her. She has no respect for our troops or their cause. She just wants attention. So Catherine and Melanie your books is GREAT! We finally have the truth in writing and the Libs are going crazy!

I am so grateful as an American to be able to finally read the "other" side of the story. I am so tired of the press labeling these people who degrade our troops as heroes and those of us who fear terroism as "baby killers" and worse. This book gives the reader an opportunity, not normally given in the media, to decipher and judge for themselves. I like having all sides of a story before I decide how to vote, think or speak. What a concept!

"American Mourning" is a beautiful and poignant story that chronicles the divide in America over the war against terrorism. What makes this book so intriguing is that it personalizes the story by showing how 2 different American families respond to the death of their son. It's a raw and gripping portrayal of how we mourn as a nation, and how our individualism propels us to respond to similar events in such starkly different ways. One mother, Cindy Sheehan, becomes a broken woman when her son, Casey, is killed in a war that his mother never supported. For her it becomes the cruelest form of torture that he should die for a cause she finds to be anything but just. Contrast that to the story of Jan and Joe Johnson, who become greater patriots upon hearing news that their son Justin died. At the age of 46, Joe Johnson went so far as to re-enlist in the U.S. Army and went over to Iraq to fight - to avenge his son's death. But the best part is that the son's of these families, Casey Sheehan and Justin Johnson, become best buddies themselves while in the military. Casey dies just 6 days before Justin in the slums of Sadr City, after being ambushed by terrorist insurgents. Justin is emotionally distraught over the death of his friend. He goes online to post a message of condolence at the memorial page for Casey. It will be one of the last things Justin Johnson writes. 6 days later he himself is killed in that same city where his good friend, Casey was killed. "American Mourning" is an honest story. It shows us both the attributes and failings of both families. That will not sit well with fans of Cindy Sheehan who have idolized this woman and created a false persona of "Mother Sheehan" - a woman of absolute moral authority who can do no wrong. The truth is somewhat different, and American Mourning chronicles her story in stark terms. At a time when Americans debate how best to fight the war on terrorism, "American Mourning" showcases the divide in our nation in a way that is irresistible. It is impossible to put this book down - each chapter propelling the reader on to the next. This book recognizes that the ultimate heroes, those whose legacy must be remembered, are those brave men who gave their lives - Casey Sheehan and Justin Johnson - and that is what makes this book such a powerful read.