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From the bookshelfRead in September 2026

Red Storm Rising

by Tom Clancy

Red Storm Rising by Tom Clancy

Tom Clancy's 1986 thriller imagines all-out war between NATO and the Soviet Union, and this September the AMAC Book Club opens it for discussion.

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  • September 2026 pick
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This month we’re reading Step Into Fear by Ben Bergquam

The discussion

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Tell the club what you thought of Red Storm Rising: a scene that stayed with you, a character you’d argue with, or whether you’d hand it to a friend.

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Why we picked it

About this pick

· 3 min read

About the book

Red Storm Rising by Tom Clancy and Larry Bond is a military techno-thriller that imagines a conventional World War III between NATO and the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

Bohemia, NY — [9/1/2026] — The AMAC Book Club is pleased to announce Red Storm Rising by Tom Clancy and Larry Bond as its September Book of the Month.

Originally published in 1986, Red Storm Rising is a bestselling military thriller that imagines a conventional global conflict between NATO and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Renowned for its detailed military strategy, compelling characters, and fast-paced storytelling, the novel remains a landmark work in the techno-thriller genre.

Written by bestselling author Tom Clancy and military expert Larry Bond, Red Storm Rising offers readers an immersive look at the political, military, and human dimensions of international conflict. Through the perspectives of soldiers, sailors, pilots, and leaders on both sides, the novel explores themes of leadership, sacrifice, technology, and global security.

"We are excited to feature Red Storm Rising as our September selection," said AMAC CEO, Rebecca Weber. "This gripping and thought-provoking novel continues to resonate with readers decades after its publication and provides plenty of opportunities for engaging discussion."

AMAC members and book lovers alike are invited to join the conversation throughout September as the Book Club explores one of the most influential military thrillers ever written.

How to Join the Conversation

  • Get your copy of Red Storm Rising – available here.
  • Participate in our online discussion forum using discussion questions.
  • Share your thoughts on social media using #AMACBookClub and #RedStormRising

For more information about the AMAC Book Club, please visit amac.us/bookclub or contact: Bookclub@amac.us



DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

  1. What aspects of the novel's portrayal of a conventional World War III felt most realistic, and which felt least believable?
  2. The story is told through the perspectives of many different characters. Which character or storyline did you find most compelling, and why?
  3. How does the book depict the human cost of war, despite its focus on military strategy and technology?
  4. What role does leadership play throughout the novel? Which military or political leaders made the most effective decisions, and which made the worst?
  5. The conflict begins largely because of economic and resource pressures. How relevant do you think this theme remains in today's geopolitical environment?
  6. How does Red Storm Rising compare to other war novels or military thrillers you have read? What sets it apart?
  7. The novel presents viewpoints from both NATO and Soviet forces. Did this balanced perspective affect your understanding of the conflict? Why or why not?
  8. Technology and intelligence gathering are central to the story. How do they influence the outcome of key battles and strategic decisions?
  9. If the novel were written today, what modern military technologies, cyber capabilities, or geopolitical factors would likely change the story?
  10. What do you think is the novel's ultimate message about war, international relations, and the risks of global conflict?

Bonus Question:
The book was published in 1986, near the end of the Cold War. How might readers' interpretations of the novel differ today compared to when it was first released?

About the author

Tom Clancy

Tom Clancy (1947–2013) was a bestselling American author renowned for his military and espionage thrillers. Known for his meticulous research and realistic depictions of military technology, intelligence operations, and global politics, Clancy rose to fame with his debut novel, The Hunt for Red October (1984). His many bestselling works include Red Storm Rising, Patriot Games, Clear and Present Danger, and The Sum of All Fears. Clancy's novels have sold more than 100 million copies worldwide and inspired numerous films, television series, and video games. He remains one of the most influential writers in the techno-thriller genre.

The discussion · Red Storm Rising

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The club read Red Storm Rising in September 2026. The conversation is still open: tell us what stayed with you. Guests welcome, no sign-in needed.

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