– “See Here, Private Hargrove” – A Review

We are still continuing our study of the history and literature of the United States of America… It seems to be an ongoing, never ending subject. Actually – I have really enjoyed the history (once I got myself into it!) and found the history of our country to be just as intriguing (perhaps more so) than that of the European countries – with the exception of Scotland… I love Scotland! :) Nearly a year ago a friend of mine suggested I read the book “See Here, Private Hargrove” by Marion Hargrove. (it was the same person who suggested I read “Private Yankee Doodle”) His description made me interested – and skeptical – but when his sister offered to lend me the book, I accepted and began reading it shortly after. I liked the book so much that I flipped through it a second time and am now reading it to Bethany. As per request, here is my review…

Edward Thomas Marion Lawton Hargrove, Jr. was born on October 13 1919 in North Carolina, USA and dies from complications of pneumonia on August 23, 2003 at the age of 84. He was the father of six children. He was the author of a couple of books and several screenplays in his lifetime including the ever popular “The Music Man” with Robert Preston and episodes of the old western TV show favorite “Maverick”.

“See Here, Private Hargrove” was first published in 1942 by Henry Holt and Company. The copy I read was published the following year (1943) by The Sun Dial Press. It is divided into 71 sections, each containing a story or “vignette” that stand alone, yet with the others. This book is 211 pages long.

In “See Here, Private Hargrove” Marion Hargrove, writer for the “Charlotte News” is drafted into the army around the time of World War II. In this book he journals his supposed experiences at Fort Bragg. From KP to rifle cleaning, trash can painting to fertilizing plants, Private Hargrove always seemed to make a tale out of everything! His perpetual forgetfulness and his aptitude to not follow orders, gets him into trouble – all woven into a comedic tale filled with sarcasm and half hearted complaints.

I enjoyed this book a lot and found it very entertaining. On a cautionary note: this book does contain some vulgar language, otherwise it is an excellent book to read!

To the KING be all the glory!