The #1 New York Times–bestselling story about American Olympic triumph in Nazi Germany and now the inspiration for the PBS documentary “The Boys of ‘36’.”For readers of Unbroken, out of the depths of the Depression comes an irresistible story about beating the odds and finding hope in the most desperate of times—the improbable, intimate account of how nine working-class boys from the American … working-class boys from the American West showed the world at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin what true grit really meant.
It was an unlikely quest from the start. With a team composed of the sons of loggers, shipyard workers, and farmers, the University of Washington’s eight-oar crew team was never expected to defeat the elite teams of the East Coast and Great Britain, yet they did, going on to shock the world by defeating the German team rowing for Adolf Hitler. The emotional heart of the tale lies with Joe Rantz, a teenager without family or prospects, who rows not only to regain his shattered self-regard but also to find a real place for himself in the world. Drawing on the boys’ own journals and vivid memories of a once-in-a-lifetime shared dream, Brown has created an unforgettable portrait of an era, a celebration of a remarkable achievement, and a chronicle of one extraordinary young man’s personal quest.
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This book is absolutely amazing and inspirational- the drive and determination of the boys truly cemented their place in history.
Excellent read.
One of the best books I have ever read, a very compelling and memorable read. I learned so much about the work behind a successful Olympic team, and the history that surrounded this particular Olympic event.
My sister sent me this book from England, so I knew that she must have been impressed. So I jumped in to read it and was almost immediately transported just a couple of miles to Lake Washington where the crew trained . I used to row – not to this standard, but I was able to be with them in their efforts to reach the top. Rowing is a very arduous …
I loved this book. I enjoyed learning about the boys who rowed for University of Washington who did not fit the ‘mold’ for most U.S. college rowers in this period of time. They were spunky & full of grit and defied all odds. I love anything where the underdog triumphs.
Great and inspiring story of how some Washington Depression era kids came together and worked as a team
Well written, informative !!!
College kids during the depression had different expectations than in my generation,
or now. On a less wonderful note, I learned a lot more about boat building than I needed to.
Good characters and wonderful story Very realistic
Excellent story, writing.
This book took place, in part, by the shell house where the Olympic shell was stored for oh so many years. I would look up and recognize the history that took this boat to first in the Olympics so long ago.
I’m not much of a biography reader, but I’m trying to expand my horizons a bit. I heard about this one on a podcast. I ended up listening to it on audio and surprisingly I found myself really enjoying.
Great tale of a group of young men who distinguished themselves in the face of the Great Depression to become Olympians.
Riveting. You can’t put it down
A bit of history I didn’t know about!
This is one of the best books that I have ever read.
Just wonderful!
One of my favorite books – true story. My favorite part was how the author survived and was not bitter. Wonderful story!!!!
Inspirational book, I recommend
If you are a fan of historical stories, you will enjoy this book.