Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
This is a bit more than the story of the 1936 Olympic crew challenge by the team from the University of Washington. Using one of the crew members as the focus, it combines his personal experience against the backdrop of the important historical events of that era (the 1929 stock market crash and resultant depression, the dust bowls, the rise of Hitler and the Third Reich, etc.). It made for a richer story with the added context.
While the backgrounds and histories of the other members of the 9-man crew team were also provided, Joe Rantz’s story was the main focus. His was symbolic of the boys who became men even before they started college given the challenges of that time. By the time I got to the actual Olympic race, I felt these men had already reached heroic heights, especially Joe.
Edward Herrmann was fantastic as the narrator. He brought each character to life and his calling of the Olympic race was just outstanding. I highly recommend the audio version.
This story left me inspired and will continue to do so every time I think about the team. What a wonderful tribute to these men.
Also check out the PBS documentary, The Boys of ‘36.
Book Info
- Release Date: June 4, 2013
- Narrator: Edward Herrmann
- Audio Length: 14 hours, 25 minutes
Goodreads Amazon Barnes & Noble Kobo
I often wonder about this one!! Great review!!! I should look at this one closer. Glad it was a good one for you!
Thank you, Brenda! If you’re a history buff, this would probably work for you.
Tbh, this does not sound like my cup of tea, but I am glad it left you inspired.
Thanks, Irena! You certainly have to really love history.
Yes, that’s why I thought it wasn’t for me- ,I don’t like history all that much.
Your review is lovely, Jonetta! I know I have this one, and I wonder if I have it on audio…That’s the easiest way for me to work a book in, so I’m always grateful for your thoughts on your audio experience with a book!
Thank you, Jennifer! Oh, I hope you find it as its very good non fiction history.
Great review! I’ve always wanted to listen to this one. I’ve even gotten it from the library but didn’t manage to fir it into my schedule. But I will. Anne – Books of My Heart
Thanks, Anne! I hope you do manage to fit it in someday soon.
Sounds really interesting. That was such a unique time for our country. Some many things came to a head then. Great review.
Melanie @ Hot Listens & Books of My Heart
Thanks, Melanie! I loved how the author focused on the history of the moment as much as the story of the crew team. It made it an extraordinary story.
Great review Jonetta. I enjoy Historical books, so I will check this one out. Being inspirational is a bonus.
Thank you, Carla! This is a good one and I hope you do get an opportunity to read it.
I’m not particularly a sports fan, but I love good narrative nonfiction on almost any topic, so I really should listen to everyone and pick this up! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it 🙂
I don’t think you’ll regret it.