Luis Alberto Urrea's Good Night, Irene has been praised for its poignant storytelling and rich character development, drawing readers into its historical context. Critics appreciate Urrea’s lyrical prose and evocative descriptions. However, some find the pacing uneven and the narrative occasionally meandering. Overall, the novel is commended for its emotional depth and vivid atmosphere.

Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto Urrea appeals to readers drawn to historical fiction and emotionally rich narratives. Fans of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr will appreciate its exploration of friendship, resilience, and the human spirit set against the backdrop of World War II.

Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto Urrea is a historical fiction novel following Red Cross volunteers Irene Woodward and Dorothy Dunford, who serve American troops during World War II by operating a Clubmobile that provides coffee, doughnuts, and companionship. The story explores their friendship, trauma, mental health, and wartime experiences, offering a poignant look at the resilience of women in conflict zones. The novel contains graphic descriptions of violence, sexual harassment, war-related trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

- Good Night, Irene is inspired by the life of Luis Alberto Urrea's mother, who served with the American Red Cross during World War II.
- The novel highlights the bravery and emotional resilience of women, particularly those who contributed to the war effort in unheralded roles.
- Luis Alberto Urrea, known for works like The Devil's Highway, has crafted this novel as a tribute to the 'Donut Dollies,' a term used for young women volunteers in the Red Cross during the war.

**Irene Woodward**  
Irene is a dynamic and imaginative protagonist from a wealthy New York family who joins the Red Cross Clubmobile Service during World War II. She seeks to contribute meaningfully to the war effort and processes her experiences through writing and art.

**Dorothy Dunford**  
Dorothy is a strong and tall fellow Clubmobile volunteer and Irene's best friend, driven by grief after her family's death in the war. She seeks action and impulsively confronts her trauma, forming a deep bond with Irene through shared experiences.

**Hans “Handyman” VanderWey**  
Hans is a fighter pilot and Irene's lover during the war, hailing from Oregon and known for his musical talents. His relationship with Irene provides hope amidst the war and demonstrates mutual understanding of each other's trauma.

**Russell Penney (Rusty)**  
Rusty is the officer overseeing Irene and Dorothy's unit, characterized by his Southern accent and rise from corporal to lieutenant. Despite higher rank, he shares a friendly relationship with the women and portrays the universal fear shared among soldiers.

Luis Alberto Urrea

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Part 1: “This Is How We Remember”

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Part 2: “Personality on Legs”

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Part 3: “The Autumn Road”

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Part 4: “This Is How We Forget”

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Part 5: “Last of the Line”

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