RATS, by Joe Klingler, is a masterpiece of entertainment. Joe Klingler is an incredibly skilled author and I can't wait to read his next novel: Mash Up.
RATS: 9 out of 10
While the novel does have a message about the harm of landmines left after the Vietnam war ended, that seemed, to me, to be more of a focus-a motivation-for one of the characters rather than being the defining message of the novel. This was not a problem to me, the book was still fantastic. But that is why I called it a 'masterpiece of entertainment' as opposed to a 'masterpiece of learning or goodwill or some-such.
The only bone that I have to pick with this novel is its title. 'RATS' refers to a small mechanical device that resembles a rat, which is used by one of the main characters to complete his objectives. The problem I have with this, is that the title, while understandable, doesn't really encompass any of the ideas, struggles, or messages contained in the novel. It might as well be called Screwdriver because the man happened to use one to achieve his goal.
RATS is definitely worth reading. Check it out and find out for yourself, I doubt you'll be disappointed.
Learn more about the author, the novel, and an opportunity to win a prize here: http://joeklingler.com