Surviving Captivity with the U. S. A. F.

School Library Journal

Gr 6-10-In Captivity, most of the text is devoted to the Vietnam War and why Air Force personnel were at such high risk of being captured. The SERE training program is explained and leads into chapters on surviving captivity, interrogation, escaping, and surviving in the wilderness. Readers will learn about life as a POW, including slave labor, illnesses, lack of food, and boredom, as well as brainwashing, isolation, and sensory deprivation. The importance of planning an escape attempt is emphasized. However, a story about a downed airman who evaded the enemy first states that he was on the run for 12 days and later says that he was rescued after 10 days. A photo is included of Iraqi prisoners captured by the U.S., but there is no explanation of how we treat prisoners. Two Web sites are no longer functional. Interesting full-color photos and drawings appear on almost every page. Despite a few flaws, this book will inform readers. Wilson addresses the importance of ropes in survival and rescue operations. Starting with the basics of rope-craft, he explains the care of ropes and the importance of choosing the correct knot. Specialized knots, belaying, a seat harness, anchoring, and rappelling are explained. Another chapter describes a variety of rafts, while the last chapter shows various types of shelters for different terrains. Again, two of the Internet sites are no longer functional. Many diagrams show steps in tying knots, but few directional arrows are included. An adult who can demonstrate a knot or two may find an audience for this book.-Michael McCullough, Byron-Bergen Middle School, Bergen, NY Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.