Books like Johnny Got His Gun by Dalton Trumbo

Name: Johnny Got His Gun
Rating: 4 (12 reviews)
Author: Dalton Trumbo

Set during the First World War, Johnny Got His Gun follows Joe Bonham, a 19‑year‑old American who suffers a catastrophic injury that leaves him completely incapacitated—no arms, legs, eyes, or ears. Trapped in a wheelchair, he struggles to navigate a painful physical reality while his mind drifts through memories, hopes, and fantasies. The narrative unfolds in a raw and uncompromising style, portraying the horrors of war and its profound psychological and physical costs, especially on soldiers left wounded and disfigured. Through Joe’s ordeal, the novel challenges the romanticized ideals of heroism and questions the true price paid by those who fight for democracy.

First publish date: 1939

Genre: War & Military Fiction/World War I Fiction

Authors: Dalton Trumbo

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.0 (12 community ratings)

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