Super Short Summary

In the conservative state of Borogravia, Polly Perks disguises herself as a man named Private Oliver Perks to search for her missing brother, Paul, who vanished in the Borogravian army. Religion, dictated by the capricious god Nuggan, and war with neighboring Zlobenia drive the story. As Polly navigates military life, she discovers that her entire cohort is female, leading to significant changes in Borogravia's military and societal structure. Themes include gender roles and the absurdity of war. The book contains depictions of gender discrimination and violence.