Freedom's Fight

 Author's Summary

World War II was an event that changed the landscape of the world and the heart of America. As the war rages across Europe and Africa, a battle is also being fought on American soil. Eager to join the fight, black soldiers are denied the right to defend their country. One man is charged with a duty that could change the course of the war in Africa. On a spy mission he must find a traitor. But as he gets closer, he finds he must choose between obligation to his country and duty to his race. A woman reporter finds a deep buried secret that could shock the nation. As she digs deeper into the national conspiracy, she finds her life in jeopardy. She must choose between telling the truth and saving her life. A patriotic lounge singer gives up his career to serve his country. To do so, he must hide his identity. In the heat of battle, he must make a choice between the man he thought he was and the man he truly is. A group of courageous people defy the odds and fight the war of their conscience to keep themselves and their country safe.

MWSA Review

Captures the struggles of African-Americans during WWII
 
Gary Phillips' Freedom's Fight is an interesting story about the struggles of three African-Americans during WWII. One is a light skinned black cabaret singer who passes as an Italian in order to enlist and fight in Europe. The second is a black sergeant on a spy mission in Africa. And finally there is a young female reporter, struggling for legitimacy against discrimination on the home front.
 
The three stories are filled with action, but more importantly showcase the dichotomy of a people fighting for the chance to fight for a country that treated them only slightly better than slaves. Readers will both connect with the characters and be awed by their sense of duty to a country that doesn't seem to want them.  
 
Those who enjoy reading WWII literature will find this book enjoyable and memorable.

Reviewed by: Rob Ballister (2009)