Mare's Unconventional Summer Road Trip

Octavia and Talitha, two sisters, are reluctantly pulled into a cross-country road trip with their vibrant and unpredictable grandmother, Mare. Initially resistant, the sisters prefer their usual summer activities with friends. However, their parents insist on the importance of family and Mare's advancing age. As they embark on this journey, Octavia is apprehensive about Mare's chaotic nature, while Talitha is openly displeased. Despite their reluctance, the trip promises adventure, filled with Mare's colorful stories and unexpected detours, setting the stage for a transformative experience.

Mare's Youthful Struggles and Strength

Mare's story begins in the rural South during the Great Depression, where she faces the harsh realities of life as a young African American girl. With her father deceased, Mare's mother, Edna, struggles to raise Mare and her sister, Josephine, alone. Mare works multiple jobs to support her family while dealing with unwanted advances from her mother's suitors. Despite these challenges, Mare dreams of a better life and is determined to escape her circumstances. Her resilience and strength are evident as she navigates her world, ultimately deciding to join the Women's Army Corps to forge a new path.

Mare's Army Adventure Begins

Mare's decision to join the Women's Army Corps marks a pivotal moment in her life. Leaving her small town behind, she heads to Fort Des Moines for basic training. Here, Mare encounters a diverse group of women, each with their own stories and struggles. The rigorous training is both physically and mentally demanding, but Mare's determination and grit see her through. She forms strong bonds with her fellow recruits, finding camaraderie and support in this new environment. The army becomes a place of empowerment for Mare, allowing her to discover her capabilities and redefine her future.

Mare's Courageous Journey Overseas

After completing her training, Mare and her unit are deployed overseas. The journey across the Atlantic is fraught with danger, as they face the threat of German U-boats and treacherous weather. Despite the fear and uncertainty, Mare remains steadfast, drawing strength from her experiences and the support of her comrades. Upon arriving in Europe, Mare is tasked with processing mail for soldiers, a crucial role in maintaining morale. The work is grueling, but Mare's resolve never wavers. Her time in Europe is marked by challenges and triumphs, as she navigates the complexities of war and the realities of segregation.

Mare's Challenges and Triumphs in Europe

In Europe, Mare and her fellow WACs face the daunting task of sorting through mountains of mail for soldiers on the front lines. The work is relentless, but Mare's determination and leadership shine through. She confronts the challenges of segregation and prejudice head-on, refusing to let them define her experience. Mare's time in Europe is transformative, as she learns to navigate a world at war while maintaining her sense of self and purpose. Her story is one of resilience and courage, as she overcomes adversity and finds strength in her community of fellow soldiers.

Mare's Unexpected Homecoming Challenges

Upon returning to Bay Slough, Mare is confronted with the reality of her mother's remarriage and the sale of the family farm. The news is a shock, challenging Mare's sense of identity and belonging. Her relationship with her mother is strained, marked by unspoken grievances and unresolved issues. Despite the tension, Mare is determined to ensure her sister Feen's future, vowing to take her to San Francisco for a better life. This chapter highlights Mare's resilience and determination to forge a new path for herself and her sister.

Reunion Revelations and Road Ahead

The road trip with her granddaughters becomes a journey of self-discovery for Mare. As they visit significant locations from her past, Mare reflects on her experiences and the choices that shaped her life. The reunion with her past is bittersweet, filled with memories of hardship and triumph. Mare's stories offer valuable lessons to Octavia and Tali, emphasizing the importance of courage, perseverance, and the power of family. The chapter ends with Mare looking forward to new beginnings, ready to embrace the future with her granddaughters by her side.

Mare's Legacy and New Beginnings

As the road trip concludes, Mare's stories leave a lasting impression on Octavia and Tali. They gain a newfound appreciation for their grandmother's strength and the sacrifices she made for her family. Mare's legacy is one of resilience and empowerment, inspiring her granddaughters to pursue their own dreams with confidence. The sisters' relationship is transformed, marked by a deeper understanding and mutual respect. Mare's journey comes full circle, as she finds peace in the knowledge that her story will continue through the next generation.

Journey's End and New Horizons

The trip ends with Mare contemplating her life's journey and the new horizons that await her. She reflects on the lessons learned and the bonds strengthened during the road trip. Mare's story is one of triumph over adversity, a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring strength of family. As she looks to the future, Mare is filled with hope and determination, ready to embrace whatever comes next. Her journey is a reminder that the past shapes us, but it is the choices we make that define our future.

Characters

Marey Lee Boylen (Mare)

Mare is the spirited grandmother of Octavia and Talitha, known for her flamboyant style and unpredictable nature. Her past is marked by hardship and resilience, having grown up in the rural South during the Great Depression. Mare's decision to join the Women's Army Corps is a testament to her determination to forge a new path. Her experiences in the army and overseas reveal a woman of incredible strength and courage, who refuses to be defined by societal norms. Mare's stories offer valuable lessons to her granddaughters, highlighting the importance of family, perseverance, and self-discovery.

Octavia

Octavia is Mare's younger granddaughter, initially reluctant to embark on the road trip with her grandmother. She is introspective and prefers predictability, often feeling overshadowed by her older sister, Talitha. Throughout the journey, Octavia becomes increasingly intrigued by Mare's stories, gaining a deeper understanding of her grandmother's past and the challenges she faced. Octavia's character evolves as she learns to appreciate Mare's unique spirit and the lessons she imparts, ultimately finding her own voice and confidence.

Talitha (Tali)

Talitha is Mare's older granddaughter, known for her rebellious nature and outspoken personality. She is initially resistant to the road trip, preferring to spend her summer with friends. Talitha's relationship with Mare is marked by tension and confrontation, as they both share a strong-willed and independent spirit. However, as the journey progresses, Talitha begins to appreciate Mare's stories and the strength she embodies. Through Mare's experiences, Talitha gains a new perspective on her own life and the importance of family, leading to a deeper connection with her grandmother.

Edna Mae Boylen

Edna is Mare's mother, a resilient woman who raises her daughters alone after the death of her husband. She works tirelessly to support her family, taking on multiple jobs to make ends meet. Edna's relationship with Mare is complex, marked by both love and tension. She is protective of her daughters but struggles to understand Mare's desire for independence. Edna's influence is evident in Mare's strength and determination, shaping her daughter's character and resilience.

Josephine (Feen)

Josephine, affectionately known as Feen, is Mare's younger sister. She is innocent and dependent, often relying on Mare for protection and guidance. Feen's relationship with Mare is one of deep love and trust, as Mare takes on the role of caregiver and protector. Despite the challenges they face, Feen remains a source of comfort and motivation for Mare, representing the family and future she hopes to build.

Peaches Carter

Peaches is one of Mare's closest friends in the Women's Army Corps, known for her loyalty and supportive nature. She is introspective and often questions her place in the world, confiding in Mare about her fears and insecurities. Peaches' friendship with Mare is marked by mutual respect and understanding, as they navigate the challenges of army life together. Her character highlights the importance of camaraderie and support in overcoming adversity.

Annie Brown

Annie is another of Mare's friends in the Women's Army Corps, known for her energetic and optimistic personality. She is determined to make the most of her time in the army, embracing the challenges and opportunities it presents. Annie's character serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for Mare, encouraging her to persevere and find strength in difficult times.

Gloria Madden

Gloria is a fellow recruit in the Women's Army Corps, known for her proud and competitive nature. Her relationship with Mare is marked by tension and rivalry, as they both strive to prove themselves in the army. Despite their differences, Gloria's character adds depth and complexity to the story, highlighting the diverse personalities and experiences within the Women's Army Corps.

George Hoag

George is Mare's friend and confidant, a man whose presence offers stability and support. His relationship with Mare is one of mutual respect and admiration, as he provides a sense of hope and possibility for the future. George's character is a reminder of the importance of friendship and the power of love to transcend adversity.

Plot Devices

Dual Timeline

The novel employs a dual timeline structure, alternating between Mare's past experiences and the present-day road trip with her granddaughters. This narrative device allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of Mare's character and the events that shaped her life. The juxtaposition of past and present highlights the generational differences and similarities between Mare and her granddaughters, creating a rich and engaging storytelling experience.

Historical Context

The novel is set against the backdrop of significant historical events, including the Great Depression and World War II. These events serve as a catalyst for Mare's journey, influencing her decisions and shaping her character. The historical context adds depth and authenticity to the story, providing readers with insight into the challenges faced by African American women during this time period.

Symbolism

Throughout the novel, various objects and symbols are used to convey deeper themes and messages. Mare's red car, for example, symbolizes her independence and unconventional spirit, while the postcards collected during the road trip represent the journey of self-discovery and connection. These symbols enrich the narrative, offering readers a deeper understanding of the characters and their experiences.

Flashbacks

Flashbacks are used throughout the novel to reveal Mare's backstory and the pivotal moments that shaped her life. These glimpses into the past provide context for Mare's actions and decisions, allowing readers to empathize with her character and understand her motivations. The use of flashbacks adds depth and complexity to the narrative, creating a more immersive and engaging reading experience.

Analysis

"Mare's War" by Tanita S. Davis is a powerful exploration of empowerment, resilience, and the enduring strength of family bonds. Through Mare's journey, the novel highlights the challenges faced by African American women during significant historical events, such as the Great Depression and World War II. Mare's story is one of triumph over adversity, as she navigates societal expectations and forges a new path for herself and her family. The dual timeline structure allows readers to connect with Mare's past and present, emphasizing the generational differences and similarities between Mare and her granddaughters. The novel's rich symbolism and historical context add depth and authenticity to the narrative, offering valuable lessons about courage, perseverance, and the power of family. Ultimately, "Mare's War" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of embracing one's identity and legacy.

Last updated: February 28, 2025