Alan Gratz, renowned for his ability to weave intense narratives around pivotal historical events, returns with Allies, a compelling World War II novel that captures the suspense and the monumental stakes of D-Day, June 6, 1944. As with his previous work, including the bestselling Refugee, Gratz demonstrates his adeptness at creating accessible young adult literature enriched with historical facts, making the horrors and heroism of war palpable to a new generation.

Allies unfolds over the course of a single, harrowing day, bringing together a cast of diverse characters each bound by their common goal—liberating Nazi-occupied Europe. At the heart of the narrative is Dee, a young American soldier who, despite his fear, lands on Omaha Beach. His characterization is particularly well crafted, encapsulating the raw youth of many soldiers whose shoulders bore the day’s enormous weight. Gratz does not stop with the American experience; he extends his narrative reach by introducing Samira, a French Algerian spy, James, a Canadian paratrooper, and Henry, an African American medic. This range of perspectives enriches the story, offering an expansive view of the day’s events and underscoring the international effort involved in the operation.

Gratz’s prose is direct and aimed at keeping the reader engaged. He deftly manages the novel’s pace, intertwining the characters’ paths, building tension towards the climax, and offering enough context to help young readers grasp the enormity of the conflict. The inclusion of lesser-known facets of the conflict, such as the involvement of non-white soldiers and the Special Operations Executive’s role in sabotage, is praiseworthy, adding layers of depth to what could easily be a monochromatic portrayal of war.

The book is also a tribute to the power of teamwork and sacrifice. Gratz does not shy away from depicting the brutal realities of war, making clear that freedom often comes at a steep cost. His characters deal with not only external conflicts but also internal turmoil and doubt, adding a human element that is deeply touching and relatable.

However, in its ambition to cover so much ground, Allies occasionally brushes past moments that might have benefited from deeper exploration. Each character’s story feels somewhat fleeting, given the novel’s standalone nature and the broad scope of the narrative. This sometimes undermines the emotional impact of individual stories, as readers are moved quickly from one character’s plight to another.

In conclusion, Allies by Alan Gratz is a commendable addition to the field of young adult historical fiction, offering a dynamic, multifaceted look at one of history’s most significant days. It succeeds in making history accessible and stimulating, ensuring young readers not only recognize the sacrifices of those who fought but also understand the diverse and complex nature of history. Gratz reaffirms his status as a master of the genre, capturing the essence of D-Day through a lens that is both educational and deeply human. Allies is a recommended read for young adults and educators alike, perfect for fostering discussions about courage, collaboration, and the often unheralded contributors to major historical events.