Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation): An Olympian's Journey from Airman to Castaway to Captive

What role does hope play in the story? Discuss the idea in terms of Louie’s experience, but also the experiences of his family back home.

Despite the text exploring issues of war, torture, and despair, the book’s tone throughout is one of strength, resilience, and hope. How does the narrative maintain this tone? Discuss specific examples of techniques and literary elements in the text that accomplish this.

In conversation with Laura Hillenbrand, Louie stated “That’s part of my life as an athlete. You never give up. That’s one thing that’s good about competition—you want to win no matter who you’re running against” (287). Discuss the ways Louie’s philosophy from this quote plays out in his life story.

Although the text is set during World War II, in what ways is Louie’s story universal? What specific aspects of his story can be applied to other areas of life and/or other time periods?

Explore the importance of human connection in the text. How do Louie, his family, and other prisoners use human connection to survive their ordeal? Cite specific examples in your discussion.

What theme does the novel’s title—“Unbroken”—convey from the text? Analyze the theme by discussing the title’s meaning and how it applies to multiple characters in the text.

In what ways does Hillenbrand humanize the Japanese—both the civilians and the prison guards—in the text? Why do you think she made the choice to do so and why is it important?

The Bird is an antagonist because he specifically targets Louie. Explain how other antagonists in the text also hinder Louie and cause him to change.