Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation)

An Olympian's Journey From Airman to Castaway to Captive

By: Laura Hillenbrand

Narrated by: Edward Herrmann

In this captivating young adult edition of her award-winning number one New York Times best seller, 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 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.

©2014 Laura Hillenbrand (P)2014 Listening Library

Critic reviews

"This adaptation of Hillenbrand's adult best seller 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)

Powerful!

What Louis and his fellow POW’s endured is unspeakable. His life is a testament to the power of self, friends, and God. Hillenbrand tells the story masterfully. The reading is impeccable and I highly recommend this book and recording.

Amazing.

This book shows extreme happiness. It also shows how sad life can be, But how much hope there is. Unbroken has changed my life in so many ways and I hope whoever reads it next then
changes there's in a good way also.

incredibly well written; captivating;

narration is excellent, the fact supporting the the plot of the story bar amazingly detailed and the plot itself is inspiring

A Must Listen

What an amazing journey!
my sons ( ages 14 & 11) and I loved hearing Louis ' life story. My 11 year old has chosen Louis Zamperini for his free choice report at school. our lives our changed through his.

Amazing

As a person who has very little interest in nonfiction, I am glad to say this story is a masterpiece that had me gripping my bedsheets as I listened to it. The tales of the grueling trials that Louis Zamporini had to face were well detailed and painted vivid images of the events. I strongly encourage all readers to read and experience this thrilling tale.

great enjoyed every minute

enjoyed the reader made me laugh and cry can't wait to see the movie !!!

Remarkable story about remarkable times and an extraordinary man. Well told.

That it is a true story about a time not so long ago, made this story a poignant and relevant reminder of remarkable resilience during terrible times. There is never a dull moment. The performance did the story justice.

loved it?ll

I have seen the movie and now I have read the book. I loved it.

Astonishingly detailed

Beautiful, detailed prose. Insight into unthinkable realities. My eyes have been opened... a remarkable listening and learning experience.

Awesome

This was my first audible book. This was a Christmas gift from my family and I couldn't be happier with it.