I Am a Seal Team Six Warrior: Memoirs of an American Soldier

Gr 9 Up—This is an adaptation of the author's adult memoir of his time as a U. S. Navy SEAL Team Six sniper, simplified for teen audiences. Wasdin describes in detail his grueling training. As he says, "If I'm able to talk someone out of [becoming a SEAL], I'm just saving them time, because they really don't want it anyway." He also talks about his missions during Desert Storm and Mogadishu, Somalia, where SEALs, Delta Force, and Airforce Rangers were sent to capture the Warlord Aidid. Wasdin was shot three times during this mission and nearly lost his leg. He saw some men die in Somalia and would later fall into a depression that took years to overcome. This is a great book for teens interested in joining the military, adventure fans looking for something meatier, and guys in general. The action will keep all readers turning the pages wanting to see how the missions and training turned out. Wasdin also tells the story from the other side of the press, giving insight into military actions that are often criticized by the media and politicians. The author actually credits the physical abuse he sustained from his stepfather as preparation for his arduous training to become a Navy SEAL.—Erik Carlson, White Plains Public Library, NY