In Gary Phillip’s ambitious novel, Freedom’s Fight, we are treated to the history of African-Americans during World War II. Mr. Phillips tells this history in three loosely related storylines. 

First we are introduced to Gil Giabretto who is fighting for his country in Europe, a country who has not been kind to him nor his ancestors. Gil is not who he appears to be and lives in fear that others will figure out his secret. But, his secret is safe as “Negro” soldiers are not yet assigned to the fighting front in Europe. Next up is Alma Yates, a reporter for the Pittsburgh Courier, who is being sent around the United States to report on the colored war effort. As Alma goes about gathering her information, she becomes privy to a much bigger story that puts her life in bigger jeopardy than just reporting on the harsh treatment of colored soldiers by white officers in the United States. Last, but not least is Madison Clay who has been selected by the government to be a spy in Africa to help uncover information that is vital to the Allied side. Madison, despite being highly educated, has elected to be a soldier and has been in other possible situations, but what will he do once he realizes that he is not suppose to return from this assignment? 

As a mystery writer, the author fully understands how to provide enough clues to keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next to the characters. The novel is at its best when telling the mystery of the storylines. This technique was used most effectively with Madison’s story and was the most engaging. It blended mystery, history, and the treatment of African Americans well and I looked forward to reading these chapters. It is apparent that the author did much research to ensure he got the history correct for what was happening in Europe, Africa and the United States, but at times this bogged down the reading. Alma’s story at times suffered from providing too much history and background information on all of the names and events mentioned instead of just telling the story.

 I recommend this book to readers of WW II and African-American history as there is a wealth of information that covers a broader range than other books on this subject.  The book does an excellent job of telling the contributions made by African Americans, both civilian and military, during WW II and the obstacles we were up against. 

Reviewed by Beverly

APOOO BookClub

Related Posts

• The Outlander by Diana Galbaldon
• Whiskey Gulf by Clyde Ford
• Step By Step: A Memoir of Living the American Dream by Bertie Bowman
• Deception At Its Best by Nea
• Under This Unbroken Sky by Shandi Mitchell