The Serpent Papers is the struggle of two best friends, one who goes to college and the other who volunteers to fight in Vietnam, as they confront the fear, violence and issues of conscience surrounding the war, still the defining event of its generation. The war created a generational rift between those who fought and those who protested, which this novel aims to heal with rapprochement.
ADVANCED WRITTEN PRAISE FOR THE SERPENT PAPERS:
“So what is conscience? How can we live with it, be true to it, examine it every moment of every day? The Serpent Papers addresses this. The vivid and real characters in this brilliant, masterful book bring us back to the days of that era when each of us had to take a stand. I loved this book. An important book, it is the best I’ve read in the past ten years.”
– Michael Smar, M.D., Bronze Star Recipient, Combat Medic, US Army, 1st Infantry, Vietnam, 1968-69
“A great read! Interesting and captivating! A vivid story of coming of age in the Vietnam era!"
–Thomas Ferguson, Former U. S. Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (for Presidents Bush & Obama)
“I could not put The Serpent Papers down. This book finds the human soul. It is Schnader‘s gift.”
–Sandra Fluck, Founder & Publisher, bookscover2cover
“The Serpent Papers will be enjoyed by readers who care about America. It’s a novel that is hard to put down--Schnader is a story teller.."
–Richard Nochimson, Professor Emeritus, Yeshiva University
"The Serpent Papers, an intriguing, engrossing tale, a captivating read cover to cover. It is a triumph!"
–Rob Stoller, Exec Producer, Art In Motion
“The Serpent Papers is a rollicking ride of conflict through the trials & tribulations of a young American torn between his family, who want him to serve the nation honorably, and those opposed to serving, all of whom are competing for his very soul.”
—David Aldridge: 3 Purple Hearts and 2 Bronze Stars, Army Commendation Medal with "V" & 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Gold Palm Award, Meritorious Service Medal; US Army, Vietnam, 1966-67, 68-69, 70-71 (1000 days); Playwright: "Bonne Annee"
