Unbroken, by Laura Hillenbrand

...to bestow on them a crown of beauty

instead of ashes, 

the oil of joy

instead of mourning,

and a garment of praise

instead of despair.....Isaiah 61:3

     I'm sorry it's been so long since I've posted to this blog.  I assure you I have continued to read, but the autumn months are busy for me, so I took a break from blogging.  I'm getting back into my reviews by beginning with the book I just finished, and after that, I will do reviews of other books I've read over the past few months.  I wanted to start with Unbroken, because it is fresh in my mind and on my heart.  But something tells me it will be on my heart for some time to come;  Unbroken is just one of those books that stays with you.

     I have to admit that I procrastinated in the reading of Unbroken, I downloaded it to my Nook months ago, intending to read it, but I kept moving other books ahead of it.  I had heard what a good book it was, but couldn't get in the "mood" for it.  Because I knew the story of Louie Zamperini and knew it would be intense, I needed to be prepared for the way this book would likely affect me. Because my neighborhood book club picked it for December, I couldn't wait any longer.  I am glad I read it, but never expected the incredible emotional journey this book would take me through. Hillenbrand does an AMAZING job of bringing the details of war to life, in a way that is both gripping and repulsive at the same time.  She gets to the heart of the human condition during wartime, and the effects of everyone during the war and in the years after it is over.  It's a story that is hard to tell, but Hillenbrand did as well as I could imagine anyone doing so.

     I must admit that at times, I felt it was too long and included too much detail.  In the end, however, I didn't believe that to be the case.  I realized that every detail was necessary to the story and to the life of a man that can be examined for generations to come.  It is hard to understand what a miraculous journey Zamperini experienced without every little thought and trial.  The only thing I felt it "missed" at times was Louie's voice.  The story was told in 3rd person, but clearly required Zamperini to tell his story in his way.  Especially at the end, I wanted to hear a few thoughts directly from him.  Otherwise, I have no criticism or complaints.   Do yourself a favor. Read Unbroken.  You'll be grateful you did.  

Bottom Line:  Narrative Nonfiction at its best.  A memoir for everyone.

Overall Rating:  95