Nisei Soldiers: Elite Fighting Force of World War II

Description: A graphic novel about the Nisei soldiers, Japanese Americans who fought heroically for the United States during World War II while their families were imprisoned in camps.

Brief description: Debbi Michiko Florence writes books for children in her writing studio, The Word Nest. She is an animal lover with a degree in Zoology, and has worked at a pet store, the Humane Society, a raptor rehabilitation center, and a zoo. She is the author of two chapter-book series: Jasmine Toguchi (FSG) and Dorothy & Toto (Picture Window Books). A third-generation Japanese American and a native Californian, Debbi now lives in Connecticut with her husband, a rescue dog, a bunny, and two ducks.

Review Quotes: The Elite Military Units series (4 titles) uses a graphic format to showcase some of the most effective combat forces in U.S. history, with each featured unit's troops drawn primarily from a racial minority group. This title discusses the incredible deeds of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a WWII unit comprised of Nisei, or Japanese Americans born in the U.S. With a motto of "Go for Broke," these courageous soldiers were frequently summoned to complete dangerous missions and rescues across Europe. Japanese American author Florence's narrative and illustrator Coyne's images outline the painful history of Japanese and Japanese American people deported from the U.S. or forced into prison camps, as well as triumphant moments and the persistent racism faced by those of Japanese heritage. A straightforward but engaging presentation of U.S. military history.--Deidre Winterhalter "Booklist"