My Favorite War

An easy read backed by serious issues (racism, sexism, homophobia, teen pregnancy and abuse by the government). Farley has given us a novel that has been overlooked. He's telling it like it is; he's says what alot of has thought, and/or think about these same situations presently. Writers as such need to be sought out and supported.

Even though Thurgood (Farley's main character) can come off as slightly arrogant at bitter at times, the book is an incredible one - very easy to read, and very thought-provoking. It doesn't really get too deeply into the Gulf War (as I expected it would), but it opens a lot of other issues: racism, American press, government oppression, etc. While perhaps Thurgood's "solutions" or answers to these problems are faulty or misguided, he really adequately raises the issues - and these are issues that need to be raised. More importantly, he voices his opinion on many aspects of American life that are commonly ignored or stifled away.Some of Thurgood's actions (sleeping with the 18 year old girl, leaving when he found out she was pregnant, etc) are not really impressive - but I think it brings out the point of the book even more - Farley is criticizing an imperfect world, but not claiming to be a perfect man himself. Also, underpinning these issues and challenges is a nice little story on Thurgood's life as a 20-something year old, and is pleasant to read. If this isn't enough - it must also be noted that Farley has a remarkable sense of humor.. Some of his quotes are hilariously funny, so they make the book even more interesting to read.So overall, he manages to raise some very important issues and concerns, while still narrating an interesting story of his life, and adding a bit of humor to it all. Maybe not a book to read over and over again, but definitely worth reading once!!!

I read "My Favourite War" in one day and the book is superb. Christopher Farley's references to serious issues (e.g. racism, teen pregnancy) were spot on, as were his references to pop culture (I laughed out loud re: his references to Arnie's catchphrases!).

This book was a humorous view of a young black journalist and renaissance man. I loved it. Yes, the incident with the teen-age girl through me for a loop but it definitely was not far-fetched or unrealistic in today's society. The lead character was somewhat naive so I see how he got pulled in. I enjoy reading works by brothers who can laugh at themselves such as Mr. Farley and the author of "Beeperless Remote", Van Whitfield. I am looking forward to his next book.