Monday, May 5, 2014

In Tanya Lee Stone’s novel Courage Has No Color, it illustrates the experience of World War II through the lens of African Americans. It’s around the time period of the 1940’s and there was a lot of discrimination inflicted upon black soldiers. Black Soldiers were not allowed to fight in the war at all and they were told they had to settle for job such as putting out forest fires, which they didn't feel as though that wasn't their purpose. However, even in the midst of harsh discrimination, these soldiers had an enormous desire to serve and fight for their country. They never gave up on trying to be apart of the war. Eventually, they were allowed to be integrated with the war with white soldiers after proving that they are just as well trained as white soldiers. 

What makes this novel so great is that it incorporates the different perspectives of the soldiers during certain events, which led to understanding their feelings during that time period. There are also pictures that go along with certain events or people that are described. Also, there are many historical references with showing previous presidents and understanding the purpose of World War II. 

This is a quote from book by a black sergeant named Walter Morris, “We succeeded where we were not expected to succeed. We overcame. And it’s a warm feeling to know that, that color has nothing to do with it. It’s what’s in one’s heart. One’s spirit. And that… should be a lesson to all of us. We should have, and we will have, a colorless society one day”.



This book would be great for high school students because it shows how racial discrimination was a big problem in World War II. It gives the reader the perspective of the black soldier and how they felt and went through during the 1940’s. There is also an empowering message in the book, which is never to give up and always believe in yourself. It amazing to see how the power of a group of people coming together can effect change, when trying to make a difference in the world. 

3 comments:

Brittany Ranney said...

This seems like a good book to use in a classroom setting to introduce the racial discrimination even in war times. I think it is important to show people the African American side of the discrimination to get to know them. Also good about for a history lesson.

Unknown said...

This sounds like a great book. In the past I have loved to read books about the wars. I think its because I hate history class, but the books show a different perspective. I agree this book will be great in a classroom setting to teach about diversity. This book would also be influential, because the quote you chose was great. It will push students to surpass their expectations. Another thing I liked about your review were the pictures. I love when books do that even if the are 600 pages long one picture can really capture the reader.

Unknown said...

A great historical text! This book could be used even in an English class. Often the non-fiction genre is not given enough focus. This text could be one that is used to both introduce injustice and historical texts.