Micklos, John Jr. Harlem Hellfighters: African-American Heroes in WW I.

Micklos, John Jr.  Harlem Hellfighters: African-American Heroes in WW I. Capstone Publishers   2017  32p   $27.32  ISBN 978-1-5157-3348-5 ms/hs Nonfiction E-BNS

In writing this very exciting book about a topic unfamiliar to many, author John Micklos accomplished the following: he organized his data impeccably, he provided new vocabulary on the page the word occurred, he shone a light on the highlights of an amazing group of soldiers with text that reads like a narrative piece instead of nonfiction, and he executed the layout with valuable support photos, text boxes and lists of primary-source materials that, all combined, propel the reader forward. Micklos provides a learning experience for readers and students of social studies and social issues by first demonstrating the need for a black regiment.  What follows is a brief examination of the struggles in the U.S. with prejudice as well as the struggles of black units to gain respect in the military.  Next, Micklos shows how the 15th Regiment became the 369th Infantry Regiment in France.  The French did not display the prejudices of the Americans, and under French tutelage, the men quickly grew in ability, reputation and fierceness.  They became heroes as much for their bravery as for their ability.  Instrumental in pushing Germany to end the war, they gained the nickname “hellfighters.” 

The final two chapters show the group returning to the U.S. to a parade where a million or so spectators welcomed them, as was befitting a group of heroes. They helped to change the course of history, yet it would take 45 more years to achieve the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The book ends with a glossary of all new vocabulary words, a short list of resources to consult, and an index.  Books about breaking barriers and making contributions to a cause should all be of this caliber.

They can either BE the lesson or support a broader lesson in a variety of curricula.     

The Military Heroes series includes books about the buffalo soldiers, the Harlem Hellfighters, the Tuskegee Airmen and others.  Characterized by exciting narrative and primary-source materials, they prove to be excellent resources as much for their organization as for their layout and extra features like text boxes, glossaries and reading lists.   

Summary: The contributions of the Harlem Hell-Fighters during WWI are enumerated in this volume, which teaches readers basic information about the cause of the war, the need for more troops and the struggles that the men faced both at home and abroad.  The men quickly gained status as fighters to reckon with.     

World War I, Black History                                  --Martha Squaresky