Joe Haldeman studied physics and astronomy in college before serving in the Vietnam war from 1967 to 1969. Many of his novels explore the effects of war on the individual in a way that is easily understandable and he manages to escape the stereotypes normally associated with that subject. He writes mainly science fiction stories with some poetry and essays. He is not only a professional writer, but a supporter of upcoming writers through teaching and workshops.

Haldeman writes mainly in the first-person, and has a unique talent for pulling the reader into his novels, making them experience and understand the events as the occur through the eyes of his protagonists. His work, is enjoyable, but it also challenges and provokes while it entertains.