86 pages • 2 hours read
Alan GratzA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Allies by Alan Gratz follows six young characters who participate in the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. The protagonist, Dee Carpenter, is an American soldier with a German heritage that he keeps secret. Characters include James, a Canadian paratrooper; Bill, a British tank driver; Samira, an Algerian immigrant aiding the resistance; Henry, a Black American medic; and Monique, a French amateur nurse. Together, they face the chaos of war and learn about identity, belonging, and sacrifice. Sensitive topics include wartime violence and discrimination.
Allies by Alan Gratz presents a gripping and meticulously researched narrative of D-Day, focusing on diverse perspectives. Positively, readers commend its compelling characters and historical accuracy. However, some critics note the multiple storylines can be difficult to follow. Overall, Allies is an engaging way to explore World War II for younger audiences.
A reader who would enjoy Allies by Alan Gratz is typically a young adult or middle-grade student who has a keen interest in historical fiction and World War II. Fans of Refugee by Alan Gratz or The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley will appreciate the gripping, multifaceted perspectives on the D-Day invasion presented in this book.
Historical Fiction
Children's Literature
Action / Adventure
Military / War
History: World
WWII / World War II
Society: War
Identity: Race
Values/Ideas: Equality