Week 12 Prompt Response

Title-Unbroken
Author -Laura Hillenbrand

1. Where is the book on the narrative continuum?
It is highly narrative (reads like fiction).

2. What is the subject of the book?
Laura Hillenbrand's biography chronicles the journey of Louis Zamperini from his difficult boyhood days to Olympic athlete, World War II and POW survivor.

3. Type of Book- Biography

4. Appeal 

Pacing -The pacing is leisurely.

Characters -Louis Zamperini,Olympic runner and World War II hero, is the main character of the book. Family, friends, fellow airmen and P.O.W.'s, and Japanese captors are significant in terms of their effect on Zamperini's life.

How does the story feel?  Although at times heart-wrenching, readers will feel uplifted by Zamperini's story.

What is the intent of the author?
Hillenbrand shares the uplifting story of Louis Zamperini, WWII hero, to illustrate the tremendous courage and resilience possible in the face of unspeakable odds.


What is the focus of the story?
The courage, endurance, resilience and, ultimately, forgiveness, that exemplifies Louis Zamperini's life story is the focus of the book. 

Does the language matter?
Yes. The story is beautifully written.The effect of language enables the story to be conveyed in such a manner that the full force of Zamperini's story is understood by the reader.

Is the setting important and well described? 
The setting is very important to the story. Louis Zamperini's story hinged on a life lived during extraordinary times. World War II is pivotal to the story. All of the Zamperini's experiences, particularly his time lost at sea and in the Japanese prison camp, are described in great detail.

Are there details, and if so, of what?
The book is full of details. By providing details of his early life, readers come to feel that they know and understand Zamperini. Details of daily life as an airmen and the tragedy at sea are described as well as daily life as a POW. There is no lack of description throughout the events of the book which allows the reader to feel the full impact of the situations he is forced to endure.

Are there sufficient charts and other graphic materials? Are they useful and clear?
There are many photos throughout the book, which are clear and add to the reader's understanding and appreciation of the events.  There are also letters included which add to the detail. A single map of the Pacific is included.

Does the book stress moments of learning, understanding or experience?
Yes. Pivotal moments and experiences in Zamperini's life are described in great detail, such as his harrowing experience at sea and as a POW.  His response to these experiences is central to his story.

Why would a reader enjoy this book?

1. good storytelling
2. a tale of survival
3. uplifting tone