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The Boys in the Boat

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2013

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Daniel James Brown

The Boys in the Boat

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2013
Book Details
Pages

404

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Berlin, Germany • 1930s

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

1260L

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Super Short Summary

The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown narrates the journey of the University of Washington's rowing team as they pursue gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics during the Great Depression and under the shadow of Adolf Hitler's rise to power. Central to the story is Joe Rantz, whose life of hardship and personal growth underscores the themes of teamwork, family, and social class. The source material references the Holocaust, poverty, abandonment, and Nazi Germany.

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Challenging

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.5

423,984 ratings

88%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown has been praised for its compelling narrative and thorough historical research, effectively capturing the spirit and resolve of the 1936 U.S. Olympic rowing team. Some critics note that the detailed accounts can occasionally slow the pacing. Overall, it is lauded for its inspirational and engaging storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Boys in the Boat?

Readers who enjoyed Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand or Seabiscuit will be captivated by The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown. This book appeals to those interested in history, sports, and human resilience, offering a compelling narrative of the 1936 U.S. Olympic rowing team's journey against great odds.

4.5

423,984 ratings

88%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Daniel James Brown

Brown is the author of critically acclaimed narrative nonfiction books, including the award-winning *The Boys in the Boat*. He grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and currently lives near Seattle, Washington. His background includes technical writing, editing, and teaching writing in California. Brown's mission is to bring compelling historical events to life vividly and accurately.

Joe is a central figure in *The Boys in the Boat* and a member of both the US Olympic rowing team and the University of Washington rowing team. He had a difficult childhood marked by the death of his mother, abuse from his stepmother, and abandonment by his father. Joe is self-sufficient and struggles with relationships and teamwork but grows to trust others over time.

Ulbrickson is the head coach of the Washington crew team, known for being particular and demanding. He is deeply protective of his team and is respected by the boys and the racing community. He raises funds for the team’s trip to Berlin and carefully selects the team members.

Pocock is the boat builder for the Washington crew team and offers technical advice on rowing techniques. He is respected by the boys and plays a significant role in helping Joe develop trust in his teammates.

Joyce is Joe’s high school and college sweetheart, later becoming his wife. She grows up in a religious and restrictive household and is fiercely protective of Joe, ensuring he has a warm family life.

Bobby is the coxswain of the boat, responsible for steering and directing the team. He is small but intelligent and strategic, with a knack for boosting team morale and leading them to victory.

Roger is Joe’s first close friend on the team, known for his determination and independent streak. He befriends Joe when others overlook him, and they develop mutual respect and affection.

Other key team members include Johnny, Gordy, Stub, Chuck, Shorty, and Don. Each plays a vital role in the crew, contributing to the team’s strength and success through their unique abilities and backgrounds. The boys build friendships and camaraderie on and off the water.

Book Details
Pages

404

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Berlin, Germany • 1930s

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

1260L

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