I found Louie Zamperini's story captivating. However, Hillenbrand's choice to provide detailed historical context in chunks throughout the book yanked me out of the narrative and shoved me into informational essay mode, which made for a much less satisfying read. Once I slogged through the sections detailing, for example, PTSD in Pacific POWs, I was grateful to learn of the postwar struggle these veterans faced--their story awakened in me an overwhelming gratitude for the sacrifices made by every person who has fought for our country--but, oh! As I pushed through those disturbing stats, how I longed to return to Louie's amazing saga! From reading reviews online and seeing a Zamperini interview on TV, I knew some of the big moments; still, I was itching to find out all that happened to him, so I dug in and read the book in two days. I'm delighted Hillenbrand has researched so thoroughly to bring Louie Zamperini's story of Survival, Resilience, Redemption and *Faith* to a younger generation.

Note added 8/7/12
Upon further reflection, I wonder if those occasional informative sections provided more than information; I wonder if perhaps they provided a respite from the intensity of the narrative. Hillenbrand may have realized we couldn't make it through his story without a pause now and then.