The plot starts out in Torrance, California and centers around the life of Louis Zamperini. As a child, Louis was a delinquent who frequently caught himself in trouble. For a while, it seemed as if he would be in jail or get arrested until his older brother Pete, helps him out and helps exert him into physical activities such as track. Louis then becomes a star and competes in the 1936 Berlin Olympics where he gets noticed by the world. When he comes back to America, he enlists himself in the military and then one day, his plane gets shot down and he and his crew get found by the Japanese, which make them prisoners of war. Louis has to continuously work hard or get punished and suffer the extreme consequences.
The book was very enjoyable and an interesting read. I liked how the book was a biography about a war veteran’s tough life and struggles, but how he manages to continuously not give into the Japanese’s harsh punishments. The situations were intense and created a lot of suspense. The writing style of the author created a lot of action and always wanted to make you read more and more of the book.
A memorable thing about the book is Louis’ insane amount of perseverance. Throughout Louis’ life, he has to put up with a lot and always strives to do better. Even through struggles and getting hurt, he never gives up and always makes it to the finish line.
Reviewed by Kevin, Grade 9, Twin Hickory Area Library
HCPL TeenScene's Read + Review 