Unbroken

In the first few chapters of the book, Hillenbrand focuses on certain qualities of Louie as a youth. What are they, and how are they reflected in his adulthood?

Which of these personal qualities contributed to Louie’s survival as a Japanese POW? How do they do so?

Make a list of all of Louie’s near death experiences. How can these be seen as examples of “divine intervention”?

Outside the context of Louie’s story, “the Bird” is referred to by his proper name, Mutsuhiro Watanabe. In the descriptions of his violent treatment towards Louie, however, and in Louie’s nightmares of him after the war, Hillenbrand repeatedly refers to him as “the Bird.” Explain why Hillenbrand made this choice.

For Louie, the war was not over when Naoetsu was liberated. When did the war finally finish for him? Explain and support your answer with evidence from the text.

In the epilogue, Hillenbrand states that Louie had a “conviction that everything happened for a reason, and would come to good.” How did this belief manifest itself in his story?

Comment on Hillenbrand’s storytelling technique. Consider her blend of narrative and historical commentary, and identify the qualities of her writing that make the book highly readable.

Examine Hillenbrand’s choice of “titles” for each chapter. What pattern do you notice with her choices, and why is this pattern significant?