59 pages • 1 hour read
Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation): An Olympian's Journey from Airman to Castaway to Captive
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Book Brief
Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation)
Nonfiction | Biography | YA | Published in 2014320
Biography • Nonfiction
Pacific Ocean • 1940s
2014
Random House
YA
12-18 years
850L
Super Short Summary
Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation) by Laura Hillenbrand chronicles the life of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner who, after World War II breaks out, survives a plane crash and becomes a POW in Japan, where he endures severe hardships before returning home and finding peace through faith. The book includes themes of physical and emotional torture, substance abuse, depression, and domestic abuse.
Inspirational
Challenging
Suspenseful
Emotional
Dark
Reviews & Readership
964,624 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Laura Hillenbrand's Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation) is widely praised for its engaging and inspiring narrative, making a complex historical story accessible to younger readers. Some critics feel it simplifies certain aspects too much, but overall, it's commended for its readability, emotional depth, and motivational impact on its audience.
Who Should Read Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation)?
Readers who would enjoy Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation) by Laura Hillenbrand are typically teens interested in real-life adventure, resilience, and history. Fans of The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti and Soldier Boys by Dean Hughes will find similar themes of courage and perseverance.
964,624 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Louis “Louie” Zamperini
Louis “Louie” Zamperini
The central figure whose story spans from his early life, through his athletic career, and enduring World War II experiences, showcasing his enduring spirit.
Mutsuhiro Watanabe (“The Bird”)
Mutsuhiro Watanabe (“The Bird”)
A prison guard known for his harsh treatment of prisoners and fixation on Louie, who serves as the primary antagonist.
Peter Zamperini
Peter Zamperini
Louie's supportive brother who guided him towards discovering his passion for running, playing a significant role in his early success.
Russell Allen Phillips (“Phil”)
Russell Allen Phillips (“Phil”)
Louie's close friend and pilot during the war who becomes a trusted ally, displaying steadfastness during and after their harrowing experiences.
Francis McNamara (“Mac”)
Francis McNamara (“Mac”)
A crew member who shares the lifeboat with Louie and Phil after their crash, whose actions aboard the raft impact their survival.
320
Biography • Nonfiction
Pacific Ocean • 1940s
2014
Random House
YA
12-18 years
850L
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