Sisters in Arms by Kaia Alderson: Book Review

Sisters in Arms is a debut historical fiction novel by Kaia Alderson. Published in August 2021 by William Morrow, Sisters in Arms tells the story of Eliza and Grace as they become part of the Women’s Army Corps during World War II. These women, and many others, make up the only all-Black Battalion names the Six Triple Eight. We follow Eliza and Grace from the day they enlist until after the war.

CW/TW: racism, sexual assault, violence, death, anxiety, sexism

Synopsis from Goodreads

Grace Steele and Eliza Jones may be from completely different backgrounds, but when it comes to the army, specifically the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC), they are both starting from the same level. Not only will they be among the first class of female officers the army has ever seen, but they are also the first Black women allowed to serve.

As these courageous women help to form the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, they deal with more than just army bureaucracy—everyone is determined to see this experiment fail. For two northern women, learning to navigate their way through the segregated army may be tougher than boot camp. Grace and Eliza know that there is no room for error; they must be more perfect than everyone else.

When they finally make it overseas, to England and then France, Grace and Eliza will, at last, be able to do their parts for the country they love, whatever the risk to themselves.

Positives

I love that this book tells another part of not only US history but world history. So many times, history focus on the white-male perspective. This book examines the non-white female perspective. And this is a great way to introduce people to things they may not have considered before.

The relationship between Eliza and Grace is an interesting one. The only things these women have in common are they are from New York City, black, and in the WAC. One comes from wealth and privilege; the other does not. Upon first meeting, they take a dislike to each other. But as time goes on, they become friends.

Negatives

Again, with Eliza and Grace’s relationship, I’m sorry it took until the end of the book for them to understand each other and forgive each other fully. I understand that was needed to help move the story along.

Is it weird to list a negative as the book, though over 370 pages, felt too short?

My Opinions

I have read some reviews on this book, and many people enjoyed it and the knowledge it offers. Others found it to be poorly written and not enjoyable. It’s funny how so many people can read the same book and walk away with different opinions. And that is okay, as we are human and allowed to have different thoughts on things. As for me, I loved this book.

This book was added to my TBR as soon as I learned about its existence. Why? Because I love historical fiction, and it’s even better when it introduces me to something new. I have never truly realized that the WAC was segregated; I’m not sure why, as I know the regular Army was, especially during World War II. And I found Sisters in Arms to be a great introduction to these women.

While Sisters in Arms is a book about friendship, more importantly, it is about finding yourself. Both Eliza and Grace were living the life others wanted them to live prior to the war. They were lives that neither woman wanted to live. It took them going against their parents’ wishes and joining the Army to finally find the courage to do what they wanted in life.

I recommend Sisters in Arms if you are looking for a quick read. I recommend it if you enjoy reading a book that also teaches you a bit of history along the way.

Looking for some more books to read? Check out my other book reviews and my monthly reading wrap-ups.