June marks both PTSD Awareness Month and Women Veterans Day on June 12, providing an opportunity to reflect on the unique experiences of women in the military. Tanita S. Davis’ Mare’s War offers a compelling narrative that brings to light the stories of Black women who served during World War II, a history often overlooked.

The novel follows two sisters, Octavia and Tali, on a cross-country road trip with their grandmother, Mare. As the journey unfolds, Mare shares her past as a member of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit deployed overseas during WWII. Through alternating chapters between the present-day road trip and Mare’s wartime experiences, readers gain insight into the challenges these women faced, including systemic racism and sexism, and their resilience in the face of adversity.

While Mare’s War doesn’t explicitly address PTSD, it delves into the emotional and psychological toll of war and discrimination. Mare’s story underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing the mental health challenges that Veterans may face, particularly those stemming from compounded traumas. As we honor those who have served, Mare’s War stands as a reminder of the diverse narratives that comprise our military history and the need to recognize and support everyone.

Extend Your Learning:

Use these comprehension questions with your kids or students to build their literacy skills! Print this PDF for your classroom or home.

What is the main idea of the story? What details let us know that this is the main idea?
How does Mare’s past contrast with the lives of her granddaughters, Octavia and Tali?
What do Octavia and Tali initially think of their grandmother and how do their opinions change throughout the story?
How does the novel address racism and sexism both in the 1940s and the present?
Why do you think the author chose to alternate between the past and present rather than tell the story chronologically?
What does Mare’s journey teach us about the importance of knowing and honoring our ancestors’ stories?

• To learn more about the inspiration behind the book directly from the author and information on Black servicemembers experiences during WWII overseas and in the United States, with an emphasis on Black women, watch this interview conducted by The National WWII Museum: Mare’s War: Exploring African American Experiences in WWII with Historical Fiction
• You can also go to the author’s website and learn more about some of the places that were mentioned in the book: Mare’s War, by Tanita S. Davis

If you are one of our central Ohio neighbors, check out the book at your local branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library where the book is available! Then come to the NVMM and learn more about unique Veteran stories that can be found throughout American History.

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NVMM Reads: “Mare’s War”

Extend Your Learning:

The NVMM is Open on MLK Day!

$1 Admission on Jan. 16 in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.