Unbroken

For one of my SSR books, I read Unbroken by Lauren Hillenbrand which is a biography of a legendary, prodigy runner who turned into an unforgettable prisoner of war. I really enjoyed this book because it allows the reader to be fully absorbed into the world of Louie Zamperini. The book talks about Louie Zamperini and his journey from a little boy to becoming a famous war hero due to his courage and commitment. Many significant and exceptional moments of Louie's life was due to his incomparable spirit. From the moment he was a boy, he was proven to be rebellious and independent. However, despite this character, he was able to channel his energy into becoming one of the greatest runners to live, even going to the Berlin Olympics. It wasn't until World War 2 started that he embarked on a new chapter of his life that would define him not only as a brave man but as a living miracle. Louie Zamperini's plane was shot down during flight, but Louie and two other airmen survived. He survived for 47 days on a raft until he was captured by Japanse soldiers. At the prison camp where they kept American soldiers, he was constantly tortured, along with the other prisoners, by the prison camp leader who was called the Bird. However, even with the beatings, starvation, dehydration, and other inhumane living conditions, he was able to keep his spirit from surrendering to the Japanese soldiers. He was eventually rescued, and his story remains as something that inspires people today. This book is not boring. Many people do not like biographies because it isn't exciting enough, but Louie's life has enough excitement that can be read and enjoyed by everyone.

-Dominick Yun