Serial No. 381713
Serial No. 381713 by Charles H. Traub is an illustrated book published by powerHouse Books on May 20, 2008. This work presents a visual exploration of Israeli teenage girls who transition into adulthood while serving in the Israel Defense Forces. Through the lens of photographer Rachel Papo, who served as Serial No. 3817131 in the Israeli Air Force, the book captures moments of self-reflection and uncertainty, highlighting the tension between individuality and nationalism in a militaristic environment.
Readers will find a poignant examination of the complexities faced by these young women as they navigate their dual identities as soldiers and adolescents. The photographs reveal a spectrum of emotions, showcasing the vulnerability of these recruits who are often caught between the expectations of military life and their personal desires. With themes related to photography, women’s studies, and social science, this edition of Serial No. 381713 invites contemplation on the unique challenges of growing up in a context marked by conflict and duty.
Official synopsis Publisher
At an age when social, sexual, and educational explorations are at their highest point, the lives of Israeli teenage girls are interrupted. Trained to become soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces, a rigorous institution where individuality comes second to nationalism, these new recruits pledge, “I hereby swear…to devote all my strength, and even sacrifice my life, to the defense of the country and the freedom of Israel.” They then enter a two-year period in which they will change from girls to women, from adolescents to adults under a militaristic, masculine environment engaged in daily war and conflict.
Photographer Rachel Papo, who was Serial No. 3817131 during her service in the Israeli Air Force from 1988-1990, reveals these young girls caught in transient moments of self-reflection and uncertainty, as if stuck in a state of contradiction. Rather than portraying the soldier as heroic, confident, or proud, Papo’s photographs reveal the soldier and the teenage girl in constant negotiation, caught between two extremes: a soldier who lives on an army base surrounded by hundreds just like her, but underneath her uniform, there is an individual who wishes to be noticed. Serial No. 3817131, Papo’s first book, explores the personal, complex, and delicate spectrum of emotions inherent in all adolescents, showing the vulnerable side of the righteous solider.
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Serial No. 381713” about?
Who is the author of “Serial No. 381713”?
When was “Serial No. 381713” published?
What is the ISBN for “Serial No. 381713”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
