Books matching: prisoner of war experiences
22 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
"Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption" by Laura Hillenbrand is a gripping historical account that follows the incredible life of Louis Zamperini, a former Olympic athlete who becomes a prisoner of war in Japanese camps during World War II. The writing style is described as engaging, addicting, and moving, with detailed research and a focus on presenting the harsh realities of war and human nature.
IN THE PREDAWN DARKNESS OF AUGUST 26, 1929, IN THE back bedroom of a small house in Torrance, California, a twelve-year-old boy sat up in bed, listening. There was a sound coming from outside, growing...- #2
'The Password Is Courage' is a gripping account of the real-life adventures of Sergeant Major Charles Coward, a British POW during World War II. The book delves into Coward's extraordinary resilience and bravery as he repeatedly escapes and is recaptured, showcasing his heroic deeds while imprisoned near Auschwitz. Through a blend of humor and harrowing experiences, the author paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by POWs, offering a glimpse into the depths of human suffering and the unwavering strength of moral convictions.
- #3
'Tears in the Darkness: The Story of the Bataan Death March and Its Aftermath' vividly recounts the harrowing experiences of U.S. and Filipino troops during the Bataan Death March and their subsequent imprisonment by Japanese forces. The narrative is intertwined with the personal story of Ben Steele, providing a first-hand perspective of the atrocities faced by the prisoners. The Normans delve deep into the brutal conditions of the march, the sadistic acts of the Japanese captors, and the struggle for survival amidst diseases, starvation, and maltreatment.
Through a detailed exploration of POW life, the Japanese perspective, and the post-war trials, the book offers a comprehensive account of the events surrounding the Bataan Death March. It exposes the inhumanity of war, the resilience of the prisoners, and the complexities of wartime leadership, particularly critiquing General Douglas MacArthur's role in the tragedy.
- #4
'Five Years to Freedom' by James N. Rowe is a gripping account of Captain Nick Rowe's harrowing experience as a prisoner of the Vietcong in South Vietnam from 1963 to 1968. The book vividly portrays the unimaginable physical and psychological torment endured by Rowe and his fellow POWs in the unforgiving jungles of Vietnam. Through Rowe's own diaries, readers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions as they witness his unwavering resilience, endurance, and unwavering commitment to his country, even in the face of extreme brutality and adversity. The writing style is clear, determined, and deeply moving, allowing readers to feel the savagery of Rowe's treatment by his captors and the indomitable spirit that kept him going through five years of hell.
- #5
'Devil at My Heels' narrates the remarkable life story of Louis Zamperini, from being a troubled youth to becoming an Olympian and surviving as a Japanese POW in World War II. It delves into Zamperini's journey of transformation through sports, endurance, faith, and forgiveness. The narrative captures Zamperini's resilience, courage, and unwavering spirit in the face of adversities, highlighting his experiences of survival, redemption, and the power of faith in shaping his life.
Louis Zamperini's autobiography is written in a candid and engaging style, offering readers a glimpse into his extraordinary life through vivid storytelling. seamlessly weaves together Zamperini's personal struggles, athletic achievements, wartime ordeals, and post-war redemption, providing a compelling narrative that resonates with themes of perseverance, forgiveness, and the triumph of the human spirit over challenges and hardships.
It’s no mystery why. As a kid I made more than my share of trouble for my parents and the neighborhood, and mostly got away with it. At fifteen I turned my life around and became a championship runner... - #6
Andersonville by MacKinlay Kantor is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that vividly portrays the horrors of the Confederate prisoner of war camp in Georgia during the Civil War. The book follows multiple perspectives, including the Claffey family living near the camp, Union prisoners struggling to survive in squalid conditions, and officials like Captain Henry Wirz. Through detailed and graphic descriptions, the author paints a historically accurate picture of the atrocities faced by the prisoners, the inadequate resources, and the overall grim reality of life in Andersonville.
Sometimes there was a compulsion which drew Ira Claffey from his plantation and sent him to walk the forest. It came upon him at eight o’clock on this morning of October twenty-third; he responded, he... - #7
The Bridge Over the River Kwai is a World War II novel that explores the horrors faced by Allied POWs while building the infamous Burma railway under Japanese captivity. The book delves into the clash of cultures between the 'West' and 'East', touching on themes of nationalism, Western superiority, and the complexities of human relationships during wartime. The narrative focuses on the character of Colonel Nicholson, an English army officer, and his complex dynamic with his captor, Colonel Saito, as they navigate duty, honor, and survival in the face of adversity.
The insuperable gap between East and West that exists in some eyes is perhaps nothing more than an optical illusion. Perhaps it is only the conventional way of expressing a popular opinion based on in... - #8
'King Rat' by James Clavell is a gripping novel set in a Japanese prisoner of war camp during WWII. The story follows the social dynamics and struggles of the Allied prisoners, focusing on the character known as 'The King' who defies the norms of the camp and thrives through wheeling and dealing. The book provides a detailed and realistic portrayal of life in the camp, showcasing the extreme conditions, survival instincts, and moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Clavell's writing style delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of survival, morality, and the impact of war on individuals.
“I’m going to get that bloody bastard if I die in the attempt.” Lieutenant Grey was glad that at last he had spoken aloud what had so long been twisting his guts into a knot. The venom in Grey’s voice...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Asian Saga ) Colonel Hans von Luck's memoir, 'Panzer Commander', takes readers on a journey through World War II, chronicling his experiences from the early days of the conflict in Poland to the bitter end. The book provides a unique perspective from the German side of the war, offering insights into von Luck's encounters with various commanders and his roles in different theatres of the conflict. The narrative touches on von Luck's time in Rommel's 7th and 21st Panzer Divisions, his captivity in Russian POW camps, and his eventual return to civilian life. The writing style is characterized by vivid storytelling, focusing more on relationships and people rather than gory details, presenting a noble and polite portrayal of von Luck's experiences.
I come from an old military family whose roots can be traced back into the thirteenth century. Monastic records show that my ancestors fought successfully against the Tartars in Silesia in 1213 since ...- #10
Eric Newby's 'Love and War in the Apennines' is a memoir that recounts his experiences during World War II, from being captured by the Germans in Sicily to becoming a prisoner of war in Italy. The narrative follows Newby's escape into the hills where he is sheltered by Italian partisans, falls in love with an Italian nurse, and ultimately gets recaptured. The book captures the hardships of war, the kindness of strangers, and Newby's journey of love and survival in the Apennines.
Newby's writing style is described as immediate and affecting, with a limpid flow that sweeps readers along like a mountain stream. The memoir is praised for its heartfelt storytelling, detailing Newby's wartime escapades, his interactions with the villagers who helped him, and the emotional journey that culminates in finding love amidst the chaos of war.