Baby Jack

Frank Schaeffer writes with a strong POV and always touches on important issues. In "Baby Jack," his latest novel, Schaeffer brings forth the difference in attitude toward the military between the America's elite and those who serve. This disconnect has ramifications on our perceptions and especially with elected officials who can vote to send people off to war, and decrease the medical care budget for veterans. Be it a lawmaker, corporation, or an ivy league grad, the lack of personal experience renders both war and the military as an abstraction, a philosophical hobby horse, or at the very worst, a figure on a budget sheet. Since the armed forces became all-volunteer, this lack of personal insight has shaped the attitude that the only reason to serve is because one might not have 'any other options.' Schaeffer deftly destroys this fallacy by telling a story that makes one question this self-segregating attitude.

"Baby Jack" is about finding yourself through something much greater; of taking a path that's least expected. In this book, everyone works to find themself in different ways. Jack by serving in the Marines; Todd, by the loss of his son and the reconciliation with Baby Jack and Jessica's family; Jessica, after giving birth to a son and her reconciliation with Todd; and Amanda, who finds her voice after losing her brother. Jack is the hero of this story, who gives selflessly to all those he loved. Through him, each character finds themself.

This is a compelling and serious read. Schaeffer renders it with care, and it's provocative, bittersweet and original. I can't think of anyone (be it military or civilian) who will find this book either soothing or reassuring. If anything, it makes us rethink our assumptions about spirituality, family relationships, the military, war and the sacrifice of others who often make our personal desires come to fruition.

Click on the title above to see Frank's site.