Absolutely American

Four Years at West Point

By: David Lipsky

Narrated by: David Lipsky

Length: 7 hrs and 7 mins

Publisher's summary

As David Lipsky follows a future generation of army officers from their proving grounds to their barracks, he reveals the range of emotions and desires that propels these men and women forward. From the cadet who struggles with every facet of West Point life to those who are decidedly huah, Lipsky shows people facing challenges so daunting and responsibilities so heavy that their transformations are fascinating to watch. Absolutely American is a thrilling portrait of a unique institution and those who make up its ranks.

©2003 David Lipsky (P)2004 Random House, Inc. Random House Audio, a division of Random House, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Addictive....A story that could inspire even nonmilitary buffs to follow the cadets' careers like those of their favorite sports heroes." (Newsweek)
"A superb description of modern military culture and one of the most gripping accounts of university life....Powerful....Wonderfully told." (The New York Times Book Review)

Great story that hits the spot

Incredibly intersting peek into West Point life, and life after West Point. I found myself getting attached to the cadets as they're going through their successes and failures. The only drawback to this audiobook is that the author reads his book as if he's reading someone else's book for the first time.

Ok

Reader ok but flat, often a problem with authors who read their own work. Following the folks in/out of their journey was all over the place, and I’m a Veteran and know how these years go.

Outstanding! Life inside the Academy

This book exceeded my expectations, brought us inside the modern world of West Point listening to what really happens with cadets as of around 2002. It’s like following a buddy around the halls, hearing the inside jokes and gripes. If you are considering application, excellent prep. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like as a cadet, this is authentic. This book is NOT a history of West Point. It will make your roar with laughter, feel sorry for those that suffered, and pride for these young men and women who lead our military and corporations. The author is very creative, painting brilliant word vignettes to illustrate the story. Definitely recommend!

Great story. Painful narration

If the author could read as well as he wrote the book, it could have been more engaging. There was no inflection in his voice at all. Someone should have been paid more to narrate this. I found myself rewinding the audio to understand the gravity of events.

Engaging look into the West Point experience

Enjoyed the stories. Enough detail to be interesting and at no time too much. Just the right length also. Highlight were the funny similes the author threw in pretty regularly.

He got it right.

I'm an Annapolis graduate but have found that we share the same memories and call to duty as West Point and Air Forc alumni. Lipsky captures the good and bad parts of an experience that is becoming more and more unique in America.

Tight and compelling

This seems like an extremely accurate portrayal of life at West Point, exposing the honor of the institution while also describing the costs associated with strict and rigid standards

The story was well narrated, and simply an enjoyable listen

Been There...Done That

Great insight into the Academy...even if I'm nearly 15 years removed - I guess some things are timeless...even if the Corps has. Even greater insight into the emerging leaders of today's Army - the struggles they face to live up to the most stringent standards...the ones they place on themselves...as they prepare to lead our sons and daughters into combat. Well done Mr. Lipsky.

Absolutely American a very fitting title

This book is simply great, it shows why West Point is so special and what truly makes it and America The greatest. My only regret is not being able to attend the academy.

200 Years of History, Unhampered by Progress

The closest you will ever get to being there without going there as a Cadet. The author spent time with many cadets, officers and administrators at the real Military Academy. I have spoken with friends that he interviewed. He catches the spirit of what is great about the Military Academy

Beat Navy