What This Book Is About
June 6, 1944. D-Day. The largest military invasion in history is about to begin, and Alan Gratz puts you right in the middle of it—not through one hero, but through many. Dee, a teenage American soldier, storms Omaha Beach terrified and seasick. Samira, a young French girl, fights with the Resistance to sabotage German operations from the inside. James, a British paratrooper, drops behind enemy lines in the dark of night. Henry, a Black American medic, risks his life to save soldiers on a beach where even his own army doesn't fully accept him.
Gratz weaves these perspectives together with the same cinematic, cliffhanger-driven style that made his novel Refugee a number one New York Times bestseller. Short, punchy chapters rocket between characters, building tension as all their stories converge on a single, devastating day. But beyond the action, the book asks a deeper question: what does it mean to be "allies"? Is it enough to fight on the same side, or does true alliance require seeing each other as fully human? A gripping, fast-paced read that makes history feel urgent and personal.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
Allies is a masterclass in perspective-taking—the foundation of UWC's education for peace. By presenting the same battle through American, British, French, and even reluctant German eyes, Gratz shows students that every historical event looks different depending on who is telling the story. This skill transfers directly to the critical thinking and source analysis that international school curricula demand.
The book also confronts racial inequality head-on through Henry's storyline, showing that the fight for justice happens even among "allies." For students in Singapore's multicultural environment, this is a powerful reminder that diversity within a team is a strength, not a complication. The accessible B1-level language and addictive pacing make it ideal for readers who loved Gratz's Refugee and are ready for another page-turner with real substance.
Reading Level Guide
Challenging at A2. The rapid perspective shifts and military vocabulary may be confusing. Try The Wild Robot or Spy School first.
Perfect difficulty. The short chapters and fast pace keep you hooked while the multiple viewpoints build critical reading skills.
An easy, exciting read at B2. For a greater challenge from the same author, try Refugee with its more complex emotional themes.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.