Luke Deal

During World War II, the US Army's only all-Black, all-women battalion takes on an impossible mission: sorting through a three-year backlog of 17 million pieces of mail that hadn't been delivered to American soldiers and finish within six months.

The story follows 10-year-old Conner, who is struggling with his father's long deployment and is withdrawn, spending all his time playing a world-building video game. His Uncle Sean takes him on a drive in an attempt to reconnect, using the game as a bridge. Together, they embark on a mission in the game, rescuing a hostage in a high-stakes, action-packed adventure. The playful yet tense game mirrors Conner's feelings about his father's absence, and through teamwork, Conner learns about sacrifice, bravery, and trust. The story blends real-world emotions with action-packed virtual experiences, leading to a heartfelt connection between uncle and nephew.

Jefferson Pierce is a man wrestling with a secret. As the father of two daughters and principal of a charter high school that also serves as a safe haven for young people in a New Orleans neighborhood overrun by gang violence, he is a hero to his community.