57 pages 1 hour read

James McBride

Miracle at St. Anna

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In James McBride’s debut novel, Miracle at St. Anna, four soldiers from the all-Black 92nd Buffalo Division rescue an injured Italian boy during World War II and take refuge in a Tuscan village. As they navigate relationships with the villagers and confront a traitorous partisan, they face internal conflicts and external threats from approaching German forces. The book contains references to suicide, racism, racial slurs, and graphic depictions of violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Reviews for James McBride's Miracle at St. Anna highlight its compelling storytelling and rich historical context. Critics praise McBride's vivid portrayal of World War II and the complex relationships among the characters. However, some find the narrative structure confusing and pacing uneven. Overall, the novel is lauded for its emotional depth and cultural insights.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Miracle at St. Anna?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with rich character development and themes of courage and humanity, such as those found in The Book Thief by Markus Zusak or The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah, will be captivated by James McBride's Miracle at St. Anna. This novel is perfect for those interested in WWII stories and the African American experience.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Italian Literature

Topics

Military / War

Race / Racism

History: World

Period

WWII / World War II