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The Boys in the Boat

Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
Sep 26, 2018RosaReads2 rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
5++ STARS!! Seriously, one of the best books I've ever read. This author turned a non-fiction account into a poignant, nail-biting, and cinematic event. I was transfixed by the superb writing that endeared me to nearly every character involved. This wasn't just the story of the 1936 Olympic crew team's win, but every step that got them there, as well as their pasts that shaped who they were up to that point. Most notably, Joe Rantz. I dare any person who reads this not to fall in love with him and his story of overcoming, enduring, and prevailing. I was already attracted to Depression-era stories, but this book was even more intriguing with a setting in and around the area where I grew up and still live. Although not it's primary focus, it was fascinating to learn more about how The Depression affected Seattle and it's environs. Even if I already knew the ultimate outcome of this story, I couldn't help but feel anxious, exuberant, and tearful at moments when this group of young men came together and rowed to win race after race when it really mattered. It was one of the most exhilarating stories that I've ever read made even better because it's all true.