The idea behind this issue was based on the tradition of providing soldiers with special editions of literature, small enough to be easily packed. For example, the War Department published over 1300 for soldiers during WWII. So the short stories come in two small paperback volumes, one focusing on work by overseas writers, the other on work by U.S.-based authors. Included is an excerpt for John Brandon's novel, "Arkansas," published by McSweeney's.

The third volume is a slim hardcover titled "Where To Invade Next." Based on real intelligence, it summarizes the threat seven nations (Iran, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Syria, Sudan, North Korea) pose to the United States and possible actions the U.S. might take to subdue the trajectory of these nations. Although the U.S. has seemingly lost the Bush administration's appetite for invasion, it's interesting that six of these countries are still considered unfriendly fifteen years later. It does appear some of the actions listed as possible in this book were put into place, especially in the case of Venezuela. On a sad note, today we probably would consider major powers China and Russia to be on the list as well. ( )

Two small booklets of short stories, in the tradition of the World War II Armed Services Editions, plus a hardback volume, "Where to Invade Next," which presents background data and battle plans for seven countries. The latter's a bit terrifying, even ten years later. ( )

This issue of McSweeney's was completely brilliant! There is a strong theme, a thesis even, running between all the short stories in three small volumes. First, I read a hypothetical document making the case for war with seven countries in the near future. Written in the style of a Pentagon memo, this part almost manages to convince you of the necessity and inevitability of these conflicts.

However, the real message then arrives in the form of two sets of stories - from the U.S. and abroad. These make it clear that any analysis of dictators, oil revenues, and WMDs is neglecting the true complexity of the situation. The short stories give a glimpse to the tensions, fears, and pride that are common to all peoples. ( )

The format of this issue was great - I adored the portability of the two little books, and the simplicity in their arrangement. I really enjoyed the excerpt from Arkansas, and I also liked both Pentimento and the other two part story, the name of which I can't fully remember at the moment. All in all, another excellent piece by McSweeney's. ( )