david axe

Writer David Axe, who reported from Iraq for our June feature about networked warfare, has penned an amazing, haunting graphic novel about his experiences covering the war. Illustrated by Steven Olexa, the semi-autobiographical War-Fix follows small-town reporter Axe as he gradually realizes that the war is calling him. With no experience in combat journalism and only scant preparation, he leaves his distraught girlfriend and makes his way to Iraq, where he becomes both a participant and voyeur in the horrifying action that unfolds there. The carnage consumes his consciousness and becomes something like a drug to him—a fix. It's by far the most unique and compelling narrative I've yet seen of this entire dismal affair and an honest, self-effacing personal journey. The black-and-white illustrations are dark, violent and undoubtedly all too real. Amazon link. —Eric Adams

Related:
PopSci's Iraq Tech Report Card

Winning and Losing the First Wired War

Iraq, Science and the Elusive WMD

What's a podcast? Simply put, a podcast is a multimedia file that can be downloaded to your MP3 player or computer. PopSci's podcasts are like little variety shows, complete with music, informative interviews, and sometimes even photos and video. Each week, we'll talk to experts about the stories shaping the future of technology, from the frontlines of the "wired" war in Iraq to San Francisco's plan to turn dog droppings into electricityand everything in between.