★ 10/01/2020

DEBUT Johanna Berglund is accused of helping two German prisoners of war escape during World War II and faces charges of treason. In her defense, she assembles a collection of letters, telegrams, and newspaper articles that detail her relationships and actions over the past year as a translator and censor for Camp Ironside in rural Minnesota. The brilliant and socially awkward Johanna at first thinks her military assignment is an unnecessary detour, but she soon develops a rapport with the Germans. Her most frequent correspondent, Nisei language instructor Peter Ito, warns her it could be dangerous to get too close to the enemy. However, Peter's descriptions of his treatment at the hands of the U.S. Army while his family is in internment camps only strengthens Johanna's resolve to advocate for the prisoners. The entire story is creatively told through letters, which heightens the mystery of who the real traitor is. VERDICT Green's debut is a memorable and moving exploration of prejudice and friendship across ethnic and gender lines. For readers who enjoy tales of ordinary people thrust into extraordinary historical situations à la Susan Meissner and Lisa Wingate.—Christine Barth, Scott Cty. Lib. Syst., IA