Friday, March 25, 2011

Unbroken- Lauren Hillenbrand

The author's book "Seabiscuit" was a sensation and a successful film. This is her most recent contribution, and a quite worthy one. It is the story of Louie Zamperini, an Olympic runner, turned WW II flyer, then castaway, then Japanese POW, then hero, drunkard, and back to hero and inspirer. This is a book that should be read. It frames history in such a tangible way. Interestingly, as I was reading about the Japanese "Rape of Nanking" a horrific, inhuman, disgusting chapter in human history, the earthquake and tsunami hit Japan. I was torn between disgust for the Japanese of the 1940's and heartache for the Japanese of today.
Zamperini's story is of such value and resilience. A lesson for us all, young and old, in determination, self, and strength. Highly recommended. Highly.

February reads-too racy for review!

I jotted down a few reads recommended on NPR during a Valentine's Day spot. I requested the books from the library and they came in in late February. One well researched book was extremely educational, another was awfully pornographic. I thought I shouldn't review them here. But, keep in mind that these books were reviewed on NPR, and they were available to take out at the library. And completely inappropriate for young adults. Certainly WAY TOO MUCH INFORMATION for kids.
Beware.