Brat Life: Growing Up Military in Fiction and Nonfiction

The book "Military Brats: The Invisible Children" explores the lives of military children, providing insight into their unique experiences and challenges. By understanding the brat experience, we can better appreciate the sacrifices made by service members and their families.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Although there are hundreds of thousands of current and former Military brats in the United States, very little about their lives as children of service members has been documented. Reading about the experiences of fellow brats can help these children of warriors understand both themselves and the unique world in which they were raised. Becoming aware of the challenges that these children faced (and still face) will also help the general population consider how to honor and to help those who served in the military without ever having been drafted or volunteered.

Chapters focus on novels intended for adults, adolescent fiction, autobiographies and biographies, and explore the common elements of the brat experience: frequent moves, the ever-present sense of danger, the potential loss of the service member, and isolation from the larger civilian world. By understanding the life of brats, we can better understand the very real costs--beyond the lives of service members--that these individuals pay for our collective freedom and security.

The experiences of Military brats are a unique and often overlooked aspect of American society. These children of service members have grown up in a world that is constantly in motion, with frequent moves and deployments taking their families from one place to another. This can create a sense of instability and uncertainty, as well as a deep connection to the military community.

One of the most significant challenges that Military brats face is the constant sense of danger that comes with their parent's profession. Whether they are living in a war zone or a remote base, these children are always aware of the potential for harm. This can lead to anxiety and stress, as well as a sense of isolation from their peers.

Another challenge is the loss of the service member. Many Military brats lose a parent or both during their childhood, which can have a profound impact on their emotional and psychological well-being. This can lead to feelings of abandonment and grief, as well as a struggle to establish a sense of identity and belonging.

Despite these challenges, Military brats are often resilient and adaptable. They have developed a strong sense of community and a deep appreciation for the sacrifices that their parents have made for their country. They are also often highly educated and skilled, thanks to the opportunities that the military has provided for them.

One way that the general population can honor and help Military brats is by becoming more aware of their experiences. This can be done through reading books. There are many books available that provide insight into the lives of Military brats, including memoirs and autobiographies. By reading these books, individuals can gain a better understanding of the challenges that these children face and the contributions that they make to society.

In addition, individuals can also support Military brats by volunteering their time and resources. This can include volunteering at local organizations that serve Military families, such as the USO or the American Red Cross. It can also include providing financial support to organizations that provide services to Military brats, such as the Military Child Education Coalition or the National Military Family Association.

Finally, individuals can also show their support for Military brats by simply being understanding and supportive of their families. This can include offering words of encouragement and support during difficult times, as well as being a listening ear when a Military brat needs to talk.

In conclusion, the experiences of Military brats are a unique and often overlooked aspect of American society. These children of service members have faced many challenges, but they are also resilient and adaptable. By becoming more aware of their experiences and by supporting them through volunteering and financial support, the general population can honor and help these children and their families.

Weight: 264g
Dimension: 228 x 150 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476676968