Unbroken

By Laura Hillenbrand

Unbroken - Laura Hillenbrand
  • Release Date: 2010-11-16
  • Genre: Biographies & Memoirs
Score: 4.5
4.5
From 10,713 Ratings

Description

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • From the acclaimed author of Seabiscuit comes the incredible true story of survival and salvation that is the basis for two major motion pictures: Unbroken and Unbroken: Path to Redemption.

“Extraordinarily moving . . . a powerfully drawn survival epic.”—The Wall Street Journal


“Hillenbrand’s writing is so ferociously cinematic, the events she describes so incredible, you don’t dare take your eyes off the page.”—People

TIME’S TOP NONFICTION BOOK OF THE YEAR • WINNER OF THE LOS ANGELES TIMES BOOK PRIZE


In boyhood, Louis Zamperini was an incorrigible delinquent. As a teenager, he channeled his defiance into running, discovering a prodigious talent that carried him to the Berlin Olympics. Then with the start of World War II, the athlete became an airman. When his Army Air Forces bomber crashed into the Pacific Ocean, against all odds, Zamperini survived. Ahead of him lay thousands of miles of open ocean, leaping sharks, a foundering raft, thirst and starvation, enemy aircraft, and, beyond, a trial even greater. Driven to the limits of endurance, Zamperini would answer desperation with ingenuity; suffering with hope, resolve, and humor; brutality with rebellion.

Yet Zamperini’s willpower faced its ultimate test upon his heroic return home after the war. He grappled with PTSD, struggled to come to terms with the injustices done to him, and was set on the path of redemption by a momentous encounter with famed reverend Billy Graham.

An unforgettable story of a man’s journey into extremity, Unbroken is a testament to the resilience of the human mind, body, and spirit.

Reviews

  • Speechless

    5
    By Slaterdoginsc
    Such an amazing true life story. Just read it. That’s all I can say.
  • Unbroken

    5
    By JillAdrienne
    Amazing book. I went through every possibly emotional.
  • Inspiring & Heartwarming

    5
    By LJGarcia0326
    This story has so much depth and detail it’s basically three amazing stories all rolled into one if you break it up into three acts. An inspiring and empowering story of resilience and faith.
  • S. SUOR

    5
    By SMSuor
    Outstanding book! I read it many years ago, and when it came up as a possible read I decided it would be worth reading again.
  • Truly, remarkably inspiring!

    5
    By cappyjack
    A fascinating read that delivers truth in an action-packed, page turning story that seems impossible to believe! Yet Louie’s story is mighty bold and his faith and perseverance are unquestionable. A wonderful read for those able to read and comprehend the story line of this true hero. My favorite part is his ability to forgive and love his enemies.
  • Unbroken

    5
    By 1966HB
    Wow what a story. So sad and incomprehensibly brutal and yet so hopeful. Not sure how I came to read this book but very glad I did.
  • A Masterful Biography by a Masterful Author

    5
    By blu3v1per
    One of the best books I have ever read. It was gripping from cover to cover and extremely well researched and written.
  • Unbelievable! Compelling! Moving!

    5
    By k-mart 007
    One of the best biographical books I’ve read. You read it and think “I can’t believe he’s going through this!” And then something else crazy happens. His recall about detail is truly unparalleled and makes this book nearly feel like you are right there with him. His personal struggles are heartfelt and his triumphs that much sweeter. An amazing read!!
  • Yay

    1
    By Emmccaff
    It is a good book
  • Great story

    5
    By Pls913
    Wow.. amazing story
  • Absolutely incredible journey of life

    5
    By humingxi
    “Louie ran through the place where cages had once held him, where a black-eyed man had crawled inside him. But the cages were long gone, and so was the Bird. There was no trace of them here among the voices, the falling snow, and the old and joyful man, running.”
  • Amazing

    5
    By Cabinet Company
    Amazing
  • Incredible story.

    5
    By ejb0321
    Best biography I’ve read.
  • Gut Wrenching And Tragic

    4
    By Joci1727
    An absolutely gut wrenching read that makes this story very very awe inspiring. Hard to finish, and hard to read, but well worth the read and attention.
  • Such a powerful story

    5
    By adaywithjilly
    Although hard at times to read what these men had to go through, I am so enamored by Laura’s telling of Louis’ story.
  • Jaw dropping

    5
    By Jenwith1n73
    I’m late to this book, as it was published years ago, and the reason I didn’t pick it up then was I don’t particularly enjoy military history or stories about the cruelties of war. However I was recently looking for a book about resilience during difficult times... and WOW, this upended my perspective on both suffering and the human spirit. I doubt I will ever view pain or disappointment in my own life in the same way after reading what Louie and his fellow soldiers endured. As it’s been said many times, and more eloquently than I, this book is truly inspirational. Read it, you won’t regret it.
  • Good Movie Better Book!

    5
    By elt223
    One word, Redemption.
  • Unbroken Is The BEST!!!!

    5
    By ManaMaster56
    Unbroken is a great book and I enjoyed it a lot. My favorite section of the book was when they where stranded on the raft and the Japanese bomber swept over them in a hail of bullets. Overall this book is a thrilling adventure and it maybe me not want to put it down.😀😀😀
  • Engulfing story of a brave soldier

    5
    By cabinreader
    This is a must read for anyone interested in the personal stories of the soldiers and sailors of WWII. Even if you have seen the movie, the writer captures much more of the essence of the man and the story.