Why read Rifleman Dodd?

Book cover of Rifleman Dodd: A Novel of the Peninsular Campaign

Book description

Rifleman Dodd is a novel set during the Peninsular Campaign of the Napoleonic Wars, written by C. S. Forester. The story follows the adventures of a British rifleman, Matthew Dodd, who becomes separated from his regiment during a retreat and must survive behind enemy lines in Portugal. Dodd's resourcefulness and…

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Why read it?

1 author picked Rifleman Dodd as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Brian McAllister Linn

Author

I reread this short novel, preparing to teach a European military history course and a battlefield trip in Portugal.

At its simplest, this is the story of an English soldier’s private war against a French company during the Peninsular War. Cut off from his unit, Dodd’s odyssey to return to his comrades immerses him in the savagery of the Iberian guerrilla war.

For years on the list of recommended readings by the US Marine Corps, Dodd exemplifies the soldierly traits of unit loyalty, tactical skill, and unwavering commitment. The book focuses on military personnel who practice their ancient trade…

From Brian's 3 favorite reads in 2023.