Book Review of “Unbroken”
It has come to our attention that Veterans tend to read, especially as they start getting older, and a lot of what they read tend to be historical non-fiction. They seem to also prefer anything having to do with our nations wars. With that being said, we are going to start introducing book reviews every once in a while. These books will usually be something the Veterans would be interested in reading, and today we will take a look at the first one.
Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand is a remarkable and gripping non-fiction book that recounts the extraordinary life of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner and World War II veteran. Published in 2010, Hillenbrand’s meticulously researched and beautifully written narrative takes readers on an unforgettable journey through Zamperini’s life, filled with triumph, resilience, and unimaginable hardships.
The book begins by introducing Zamperini’s childhood and his transformation into a talented athlete, setting the stage for his participation in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. However, as the war escalates, Zamperini’s life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes a bombardier in the U.S. Army Air Forces. During a mission, his plane crashes into the Pacific Ocean, leaving him and two other crew members stranded on a life raft for a record-breaking 47 days.
Hillenbrand vividly describes the physical and psychological challenges that Zamperini faces during his harrowing time at sea, battling hunger, thirst, sharks, and the constant threat of death. Their rescue by the Japanese navy leads to their capture and imprisonment in brutal POW camps, where Zamperini endures relentless physical and mental torture at the hands of his captors.
The strength of “Unbroken” lies not only in the harrowing events it portrays but also in Hillenbrand’s meticulous research and ability to bring Zamperini’s story to life. The author masterfully weaves together historical details, personal accounts, and interviews, creating a deeply immersive reading experience that captivates the reader from beginning to end.
Beyond being a tale of survival and endurance, “Unbroken” delves into themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the indomitable human spirit. Hillenbrand’s vivid prose evokes a wide range of emotions, from heart-pounding tension to moments of compassion and hope. Through Zamperini’s journey, the book explores the power of resilience and the ability to find strength in the face of unimaginable adversity.
The book was made into a movie which was released in 2014. The movie is definitely good, but as is usually the case the movie leaves a lot of details out. To get the full idea of the horrors that Zamperini faced during both the crews time in the life raft as well as his journey through the POW camps, you need to take the time to read the book.
If you have read the book, feel free to leave your impression below in the comments.
