Braided in Fire is fabulous for its capture of the daily lives, personalities, and emotions of both Black GIs and rural Italians. Solace Wales must have a keen insight into humankind to bring these people to life. It is factual and very well-researched with scholarly references and colorful anecdotes. Her masterpiece is a great read about pre-war Italians living in the countryside, maddening for its clarity about racism in the US military, and a sad read about war's waste of lives and energy. Yet it is also a humbling read about people who have chosen to celebrate peace over hate. One day, to offer my respect, this book will take me to Sommocolonia.