The Reception of My Book: A Seemingly Frank Expose

I recently completed my book and was delighted to see the feedback from those who were directly involved in the events I wrote about. The reactions were mixed, and it has been both enlightening and humbling to experience the diverse opinions it has sparked.

The Book and Its Contents

My book is a rather frank account of my experiences in a conflict zone. While I aimed to present an honest and unfiltered portrayal, some individuals found this approach to be rather unflattering. One character in my book, a person who panicked and ran from the battlefield, stands out. Although I did not use any real names, many inferred from the descriptions who this individual was in real life. Consequently, this former soldier has ceased all communication with me.

Negative Feedback and Updates

Some former foreign volunteers in Croatia were also deeply offended by my book. For years, these individuals had been defending their involvement in the conflict, framing it as a valiant and noble cause. However, my book revealed them to be far from the idealized figures they had presented themselves as. Sadly, it seems I stepped on a wasp nest. The book is slated to be translated into both Croatian and Serbian, and it will be intriguing to see how readers in these regions react.

While the feedback from hyper-patriotic critics is undoubtedly important, what is most gratifying is the endorsement from my fellow soldiers. My best friend from the Kosovo War, when reading the book, almost screamed: "This is exactly how it was!"

Thick Skinned and Uncompromising

Published or not, one must have a thick skin when writing about such sensitive subjects. It is impossible to please everyone, and in this case, I chose not to compromise my truth to cater to all possible perspectives. For those who take offense, Charles Bukowski’s wise words ring true:

If you don’t like how you look in the story, you better write your own book.

In conclusion, writing a book requires courage and a willingness to face criticism. It is a process that offers insights and challenges, but ultimately, it is a step towards uncovering the truth.

Conclusion

My book has received mixed feedback, with some individuals expressing deep disappointment and others embracing the unfiltered truth. It is a testament to the power of honesty and the impact it can have on those directly involved. While some may take offense, the endorsement from my fellow soldiers in the field confirms that a truth, however uncomfortable, is often the most valuable.