In this captivating and lavishly illustrated young adult edition of
her award-winning #1 New York Times bestseller, Laura Hillenbrand
tells the story of a former Olympian's courage, cunning, and fortitude
following his plane crash in enemy territory. This adaptation of
Unbroken introduces a new generation to one of history's most
thrilling survival epics.
On a May afternoon in 1943, an American military plane crashed into the
Pacific Ocean and disappeared, leaving only a spray of debris and a
slick of oil, gasoline, and blood. Then, on the ocean surface, a face
appeared. It was that of a young lieutenant, the plane's bombardier, who
was struggling to a life raft and pulling himself aboard. So began one
of the most extraordinary sagas of the Second World War.
The lieutenant's name was Louis Zamperini. As a boy, he had been a
clever delinquent, breaking into houses, brawling, and stealing. As a
teenager, he had channeled his defiance into running, discovering a
supreme talent that carried him to the Berlin Olympics. But when war
came, the athlete became an airman, embarking on a journey that led to
his doomed flight, a tiny raft, and a drift into the unknown.
Ahead of Zamperini lay thousands of miles of open ocean, leaping sharks,
a sinking raft, thirst and starvation, enemy aircraft, and, beyond, a
trial even greater. Driven to the limits of endurance, Zamperini would
respond to desperation with ingenuity, suffering with hope and humor,
brutality with rebellion. His fate, whether triumph or tragedy, would
hang on the fraying wire of his will.
Featuring more than one hundred photographs plus an exclusive interview
with Zamperini, this breathtaking odyssey--also captured on film by
director Angelina Jolie--is a testament to the strength of the human
spirit and the ability to endure against the unlikeliest of odds.
**Praise for *Unbroken
This adaptation of Hillenbrand's adult bestseller is highly dramatic and
exciting, as well as painful to read as it lays bare man's hellish
inhumanity to man.--Booklist, STARRED
This captivating book emphasizes the importance of determination, the
will to survive against impossible odds, and support from family and
friends. A strong, well-written work.--*SLJ
*
This fine adaptation ably brings an inspiring tale to young
readers.--Kirkus
