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Serving in the military during a war can lead men and women to experience events that affect them for the rest of their lives. Laura Hillenbrand wrote a best-selling book, Unbroken, which tells the story of one such veteran, Louis Zamperini. It is set in World War II where Zamperini fought for survival on a life raft in the Pacific Ocean, was held as a POW by Japan, and later struggled in civilian life to deal with his war memories. In this interview with Hillenbrand, she recounts Zamperini’s story of survival during the war and his struggle to find closure in the decades following his return home. Listen to hear this extraordinary story of courage, despair and redemption.
Story Length: 4:20
© 2014 National Public Radio, Inc. Used with the permission of NPR. All rights reserved.
07/05/2014
https://app.listenwise.com/students/lessons/370-hillenbrand-and-unbroken-world-war-ii-hero
What are the key points Laura Hillenbrand makes about the war and postwar experiences of Louis Zamperini?
Why was Zamperini’s war experience so extraordinary? What details best explain why?
How was Zamperini’s life after the war impacted by his wartime experiences?
Why do you think Hillenbrand’s book was titled “Unbroken”? What did you learn from this story that helps you understand the title?