The Odd Angry Shot (novel)

The Odd Angry Shot is a 1975 novel by Australian author Tom Rothwell. It's a fictionalized account of Australian soldiers' experiences during the Vietnam War, focusing less on combat heroics and more on the day-to-day realities, camaraderie, and disillusionment of men serving in a prolonged and controversial conflict. Rothwell served in Vietnam himself, lending authenticity to his portrayal.

The novel follows a group of Australian soldiers from their training in Australia to their deployment in Vietnam, detailing their encounters with combat, boredom, the local population, and each other. It emphasizes the humor, pranks, and close bonds formed between the soldiers as a coping mechanism for the stresses and dangers of war.

Unlike many Vietnam War narratives that focus on grand strategic battles or individual acts of bravery, The Odd Angry Shot emphasizes the more mundane aspects of the war experience, such as waiting for orders, maintaining equipment, and dealing with the psychological effects of prolonged exposure to violence. The book uses colloquial language and Australian slang, contributing to its realistic and relatable depiction of Australian soldiers. The title itself is a reference to the unpredictable and often random nature of combat.