417: Nikki Stratton—All the Gallant Men

The novel begins in 1866 when ships of various nationalities report sightings of a mysterious sea monster. Professor Pierre Aronnax, a French marine biologist, his servant Conseil, and Canadian harpooner Ned Land join an expedition to find and destroy the monster. They discover that the 'monster' is actually a futuristic submarine called the Nautilus, commanded by Captain Nemo. The story follows their year-long underwater adventures as they visit various oceanic regions, including the Antarctic ice barrier, the Red Sea, and the South Pole. The novel explores themes of technological innovation, scientific discovery, and Captain Nemo's quest for revenge against terrestrial civilization[2][4][5].

Unbroken tells the extraordinary life story of Louis Zamperini, who gained national attention as a runner in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. During World War II, Zamperini survived a plane crash in the Pacific, drifted on a raft for weeks, and endured brutal treatment as a Japanese prisoner of war. The book chronicles his incredible endurance, inner strength, and eventual redemption after the war, including his struggles with PTSD and his finding solace in religion. Hillenbrand's narrative is enriched by extensive historical research and interviews with veterans and their families, providing a detailed account of the Pacific front during World War II and the personal experiences of those involved.

This memoir is the first firsthand account by a USS Arizona survivor. Donald Stratton recounts his harrowing experience during the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941, where he suffered severe burns over more than sixty-five percent of his body. The book details his remarkable survival, grueling recovery, and his determination to reenter service, contributing to some of the Pacific's most violent battles. It offers an intimate and inspiring reflection on the tragedy that drew America into World War II.