Home Before Morning is one of the first books to be published about the experiences of medical personnel, and nurses in particular, in Vietnam. Van Devanter presents the material in an honest and open manner. Additionally, she is writing about a topic that is both timely and interesting. When the book was published in the 1980’s, the American public was ready to read realistic accounts of the Vietnam War, especially those written by ordinary people.

By presenting her material realistically, Van Devanter forces the young adult reader to confront the realities of war. She firmly states her opinion about the Vietnam War, its outcome, and the treatment of veterans after the war. Home Before Morning is a valuable account of the war from a nurse’s point of view, and it serves as a valuable resource for students who wish to learn more about combat from a medical point of view and about the aftermath of war.