Don't Give Up, Don't Give In: Lessons from an Extraordinary Life

by Louis Zamperini, David Rensin

American hero Louis Zamperini shares his wisdom, values, lessons, secrets, and other insights gleaned from his remarkable experiences in this powerful and inspiring book.

Louis Zamperini’s struggle to survive the unimaginable—brought to life in his autobiography Devil at My Heels and in Laura Hillenbrand’s #1 New York Times bestseller and its film adaptation, Unbroken—elevated him to his rightful place among our country’s greatest heroes. Now, Zamperini reveals the wisdom he learned along his incredible journey.

Faced with one misfortune after another—a plane crash, the shark-filled waters of the Pacific, a brutal Japanese prisoner of war camp—Zamperini could have given up a thousand times. Instead, he chose to see every hardship as a challenge that he was determined to overcome. Enduring the perils of World War II, Zamperini continued to find adventure at every turn—from crashing weddings to facing down Frank Sinatra in a fight to getting mixed up in a bank robbery. Until his death at 97 he remained undaunted; happy, sharp-minded, and healthy, and continued to engage life to its fullest.

In Don’t Give Up, Don’t Give In, he offers never-before told tales that embody his simple, yet essential secrets of success: how his relationship with God, his ever-positive attitude, his constant pursuit of accomplishment—and a healthy dose of mischief—have helped him lead a long and fulfilled life, lessons we can all use to transform our own.

Genres: Nonfiction, Biography, History, Memoir, Biography Memoir, Autobiography, War

238 pages, Hardcover

Published November 18, 2014

About the author

Louis Zamperini is best known for Laura Hillenbrand's book "Unbroken: A WWII Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption".

Zamperini's life started out hard. Born to Italian immigrants in New York, his family moved to Torrance, California when Louis was a toddler. At the time Louie knew no English, making him the perfect target for bullies.

With a string of luck, Louie's older brother Pete got him into running. He set tons of records, and eventually made his way to the 1936 Berlin Olympics in the 5,000 meters at age 19, being the youngest U.S. qualifier for that event.

While training for the 1940 Olympics, WWII broke out and Louie became a second lieutenant. Deployed as a bombardier, their plane was badly damaged and crashed. Louie and his friend Russell Allen Phillips survived in an inflated raft for 47 days, with no food, and occasional rain water.

Louie and Phil landed on the Marshall Islands, and were taken prisoner by the Japanese. They remained prisoners for two years, until the end of the war.

For a while after the war, Louie became a war hero. Soon after, however, memories of his life in captivity continued to haunt him until he was brought to Christ through one of Billy Graham's sermons.

Louie dedicated his life to Christ, became a motivational speaker, and began helping troubled youth.

Reviews

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

"All things works together for good."


This book... Wow.. This book was incredible. Louis Zamperini might of not considered himself a hero but he is definitely a hero to me. It is so amazing that he was able to pull himself together after what he went through during World War II. He cared deeply for people and lived life to the fullest. I am elated after reading this book because I cannot wait to apply his advice to my life. I have learned that I must always remain content no matter what the situation be, and of course, don't give up and don't give in. If you haven't read this book yet then please do! You won't regret it.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

what a guy! Louis has lived through it all and learned so many basic but good to be reminded of lessons. some include survival skills, forgiveness, attitude, and basically just living life to the fullest! if every there was a person who lived it to the fullest, it would be Louis. he loved and lived life till his last breath. thankful i can meet him one day in Heaven.

[Mark Mortensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The life of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner and famed survivor of World War II, has been told through his 2003 autobiography “Devil at my Heels”, a 2010 biography by Laura Hildebrand titled “Unbroken” and a 2014 film by Angelina Jolie. This 2014 memoir with assistance by David Rensin is formatted with short chapters providing inspiration and spiritual hope for every human being.

The memoir also provided fresh details of Zamperini’s life. Like my two sons, Zamperini was an Eagle Scout. I did not pick up this fact in the book or movie “Unbroken”. Zamperini attributed much of his WWII survival to skills to his Boy Scout merit badge training and their motto: “Be Prepared”. Second, after WWII, Zamperini committed his life to God. This important factor was mentioned in the book “Unbroken” but notably absent in the movie.

Zamperini was humble and did not see himself as a hero. By turning his life around, he became a future role model to all. Everyone is tested in different ways throughout their lifetime and Zamperini provides methods and examples on how to react to difficult circumstances through preparation, and mind over matter through a positive attitude.

[C.P. Cabaniss · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting look into Louis Zamperini's life. It was originally written as a companion to an autobiography that he wrote and I think it would work well for that purpose. I haven't read that book, but I have read his biography by Laura Hillenbrand and this adds some nice context to the story told in that book.

If you don't know much about Louie, this probably isn't the place to start. This focuses more on a few specific things in his life and leaves the overall story of his life for those other books to tackle. If you do know anything about him and what he was able to accomplish in his long life, then this would probably be an interesting read. I certainly enjoyed it.

Louie does not consider himself a hero and makes that clear through this. He survived some difficult things that nearly broke him, but he he lived to tell the tale, which was more than could be said for a lot of people in his situation.

Louie certainly had an extraordinary life. I wish that I could have met him while he was living. To sit and talk with someone who had gone through so much would have been amazing. Reading his stories is the next best thing. I love that he talks about his faith but makes it clear that he won't shove it down your throat. He wanted to share with others what he had found and when they wanted to listen he was willing to talk.

Very enjoyable. I really liked the inclusion of the thoughts of some of his family and friends at the end. He was certainly an inspiring man.

[Winnie Thornton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a bio, but a fun, invigorating collection of anecdotes and advice from a wise man nearing his finish line. Louis Zamperini is just the coolest.

"People tell me, 'You're such an optimist.' Am I an optimist? An optimist says the glass is half full. A pessimist says the glass is half empty. A survivalist is practical. He says, 'Call it what you want, but just fill the glass.' I believe in filling the glass."

"I'm just an ordinary man with faults who, when confronted with extraordinary circumstances--in sports, in war, in life, and in faith--resolved to not give up and not give in, to keep looking for answers, and to make my life count right up to the last minute."

"You only have one life. You should never be too busy to save it."

"War is serious stuff. Life is, too. Laughter helps us make it through."

"Hate is a personal decision."

"If you cling to the axe you're grinding, eventually you'll only hurt yourself."

"I never think of myself as a hero."

"Instead of getting al caught up in asking why, I ask, what's next?"

"This is the great lesson of my life: Never give up."

"Of all the wonderful results of changing my life, perhaps the best is my ability to forgive."

[Richard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Zamperini was a regular speaker at the summer 1963 Billy Graham meetings at the Los Angeles coliseum which I attended several times. So was Jim Vaus, and their stories were compelling. I would recommend you also read Devil at my heels.

Los Angeles in the period he speaks about was a hotbed of religious effort. Lots of great stories there.

I was pleased the Rose Parade chose him as Grand Marshall for 2015. Too bad he died before the event.

[Manea Ionut · Rating 4 out of 5]

“People tell me, “You’re such an optimist.” Am I an optimist? An optimist says the glass is half full. A pessimist says the glass is half empty. A survivalist is practical. He says, “Call it what you want, but just fill the glass.” I believe in filling the glass.
“The one who forgives never brings up the past to that person's face. When you forgive, it's like it never happened. True forgiveness is complete and total.”
“You only have one life. You should never be too busy to save it.”

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my new favorite books! In it, Louis Zamperini shares stories from his life with frank humor, optimism, and humility. Reading his book was like sitting down and listening to him retell his life's adventures all the while gaining insight and encouragement from all he's been through. I wish I could have met him in person.

[Bryce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm really glad that I read this book even though I have read Unbroken as well. This book felt like sitting down for a long chat with Zamperini. His voice and optimism shine here and it is incredibly refreshing.

[Jack Baillot · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review http://howeverimporbable.blogspot.com...

[ValeReads Kyriosity · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little too much "I can do all things" and not enough "through Christ" for me.

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book made it feel like Louis Zamperini was sitting right in front of me, telling me his story. It was funny, challenging, motivational, and life changing.

[Hayden Upchurch · Rating 4 out of 5]

this guy is a legend.

[Evie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really good book to read before the Olympics happen!

[Nevin Maher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nevin Maher
Mr. Reickert
Honors English


Having a basic grasp of preparatory techniques may make it simpler to overcome obstacles life presents. According to Zamperini and Rensin, preparation is one of the most essential abilities due to their prior experiences. Education is a necessary first step to tackling people's lack of preparation skills. The theme of preparation by education is prevalent in the biography “Don’t Give Up, Don’t Give In: Lessons from an Extraordinary Life” by Louis Zamperini and David Rensin published in 2014.
Endangering experiences can most certainly have life-threatening consequences. However, you could avoid these situations by being prepared. Techniques and rhythms that make you safer in a life-or-death situation should always be taught. Learning master skills may save a life and “You should never be too busy to save it.” Perhaps the smartest option is to provide time for uncommon but potentially lethal events. Similar to how Zamperini lived his life, choosing to practically take the adage "be prepared" to heart by becoming an Eagle Scout. Yet again, this idea of preparation reoccurs. Especially in Zamperini’s time during World War II in Pearl Harbor, the importance of being prepared for anything in life will guarantee you an advantage in whatever life asks you to do.
Learning to be organized and having an expectation of the future work together. Zamperini challenges his hiking group by diverting them off their intended path, reminding them that anything may happen in the space of a blink of an eye. The group refocused by using the strategies they had learned from education. The little anticipation the hikers had for what could come next eventually helped them reach where they had begun. Anticipating the worst can help you visualize what could happen. If you don’t have the anticipation and organization skills within you, you’re going to be in danger no matter how little or big it may be. Additionally, if you lack basic knowledge you may end up like the couple Zamperini saved. Due to their lack of preparation, he wonders “... ‘what in the world are you doing on this rock? It’s shale…’
I was annoyed. They’d put me in danger as well as themselves” (Rensin 114). Zamperini risked his life because, unlike the couple he knew what to do in the situation, he was prepared. To be ready you have to learn what it's like first. Learning is a gift from “Education… the mainstay of being prepared” (Rensin 184).
The lesson learned by Zamperini in the text applies to my own life, particularly in soccer. The coaches secretly form opinions about your summer activities on the first day of tryouts. Before these tryouts, you had either one or two summers. Either you were ready or you weren't. For me, the captain's education had prepared me for what lay ahead. I got to where I am today, playing varsity soccer, by hard work. When Zamperini talked about taking the time to prepare, I most definitely did, and it was evident on the field. Comparatively speaking, those who did spend the extra minute, lap, or a couple of touches on the ball were more effective than those who didn't. That's why I think this is such a strong book because it literally changed how I acted. Although the book is not perfect there are plenty of strengths including, mindfulness, perseverance, effort, and work ethic. It is a very well-written motivational speaking book but there are also very long stories about Zamperini’s experiences that talk about the big details and it sometimes feels misleading because you don’t know all the context/little details. I enjoyed reading the book because of the description it gives you in the text, it feels as if you there in World War II because Rensin describes the five senses throughout the book. Obviously, there will be mistakes in every book which is why for me I can almost see myself in Zamperini.
The term "prepare" and its meaning can be employed in a wide variety of contexts. You could be unprepared or well-prepared, but if either is the case, you should be aware of any potential negative effects. The theme of preparation by education is prevalent in the biography “Don’t Give Up, Don’t Give In: Lessons from an Extraordinary Life” by Louis Zamperini and David Rensin.

[Cindy (BKind2Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written by the guy whose life was the basis for the novel and movie Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption, this is his own words on that episode and so much more. Louis Zamperini was a bit of a 'wild child' as a youth - he did not seem on a good path when his brother got him interested in running track. He eventually became a star athlete in high school, then ran for USC. In 1936, he qualified for the US Olympic team not in his best event (the 1500 meter), but in the 5000 meter where he had a better chance of making the team. (Although not mentioned in the book, Zamperini is STILL the youngest person to qualify in the 5000 meter event - quite an accomplishment.) He eventually finished 8th in the 1936 Olympics and went on to compete for USC where he set a collegiate record in the mile of 4:08 in 1938. Zamperini then enlisted into Army Air Corps and earned a commission as a second lieutenant. In 1943, he survived a crash of his B24 along with 2 other men. These men had no rations and managed to survive shark attacks and strafing by Japanese aircrafts. One of the men did die. But Louis and the other guy finally made landfall only to be captured by the Japanese and spend the next 2 years in a POW camp. Zamperini had an extraordinary life to that point but once he returned he had some difficulty adjusting - including nightmares about his tormentor (the Bird) in the POW camp. His life then took another remarkable turn when he saw a young evangelist - Billy Graham - in 1949. He was able to forgive his captors and his nightmares ceased. He started camps dedicated to at-risk youth. He carried the torch in several Olympics in the US (Los Angeles, Atlanta, Salt Lake City) and in Japan (Nagano). He lived a long and remarkable life that epitomized persistence and perseverance over incredible odds.

Quote to remember:

The Olympic Spirit is like the wind. You don’t see it coming or going but you hear its voice. You feel the power of its presence. You enjoy the results of its passing. And then it becomes a memory, an echo of days of glory.

[Jeanine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading Louis Zamperini's book. It gave a pretty good description of what he went through during his life. We see what he was like as a child & teenager & the trouble he was getting into, until his older brother saved him by directing Louis into running track. Louis became an athlete & an Olympian. He had a very difficult time during World War II, ending up in the ocean for 47 days, surviving that only to become a prisoner of war, held by the Japanese for 2 & a half years. He survived all that, mentally intact, but suffering from post traumatic disorder.

Life was difficult for him after all this, and he floundered, until he met Billy Graham when he went to a Christian meeting. He did not stay the first time, but went back. He eventually gave his life over to God & Jesus. This was a turning point for him. He had always believed in God, but once he finally gave himself over fully, his life started to change. He stopped having nightmares once he forgave the man who persecuted him in the prison camp.

Louis shares his story, but much more than that. He shares his wisdom, his thoughts in life and how to get through it as best as possible. He ended up helping young people who are also floundering, starting a camp for troubled boys. Louis had his own family, too. He lived a long life, a full life.

Reading this book has made me want to read his first book, the complete story of what he went through, "The Devil at My Heels."

[Beth Pearson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a Zamperini fan and I loved reading this book. Full of common sense, inspirational encouragement, and wisdom that only comes from a long, lived life, this book had lots of little gems. Louis Zamperini's voice came through loud and clear. You can hear what's make him part of the strongest, most self reliant, greatest generation America has every produced. My only complaint was a lot of the themes were repeated over and over again. Just with different words or stories, but the idea was still the same. Nonetheless, I will totally recommend this book and it's one I'll hold onto for reference in the years to come.

[Rene' Riddle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't read Unbroken, (which is also about Zamperini's extraordinary life) but I already wonder if it could be better? This is shorter and in Louis's own words. What an amazing, amazing person he was. I made my 12 and 14 year old boys sit down while I read the majority of this to them. It is just so incredible what a person can do with a proper humble attitude, self confidence, and a solid set of skills. Zamperini's conversion experience with Christianity is also one that all Christians should read and take note of. His heart was truly sincere and pure. What a wonderful example of a disciple of Christ.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book tells the story of Louis Zamperini's life not just during WWII, but his miraculous turnaround after the war. For me, the true heroism of this man always seemed to be what he did for humanity after the war was over. I feel this book is a blessing, a true gift from a man who learned so much from life. For full review, see here. http://eagleswingsbooks.blogspot.com/...

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun book with some great stories and advice. Much of the book made me feel like I was talking with a loving grandparent.
One of my favorite things about Louie's story is that it shows that people can (and do) change.
I read Unbroken a few years ago and worried that this would repeat all of the same stories and information. No need to worry about that. Of course, there was some cross-over, but this was a whole new adventure.

[Chuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

This by far was the most powerful book I’ve read, only closely followed by Elie Wiesel’s book, Night. His story of pain, perseverance and resiliency will make you cry and cheer for him every step of the way. This is an incredible story that is only made more remarkable by the fact that it’s true. This is a must read for every American so people understand the sacrifice that others have given so that we can enjoy the simple liberties in our country.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Appropriate for: age 13+
You will like this book if you like: Inspirational stories, autobiographies

I LOVED this book! After reading Unbroken I wanted to know more about Louis. This book isn't a straight forward autobiography. In each chapter Louis teaches us a lesson and uses his life stories to illustrate this lesson. No swearing (yay!)

[Josh Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful short book by Zamperini just before he died at the age of 97. Short chapters filled with rich anecdotes & lessons from the authors life will bring chuckles and insights to the reader. I especially enjoyed the chapters that the author speaks of the changes Christ brought to his life and then subsequently, to the life of others through him.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book truly FULL of the wisdom from a member of the greatest generation. It concisely organizes the incredible events of Louis Zamperini’s into life lessons. He was a man of endurance and integrity, but he was also humorous, possessing a real zest for life. His story of accepting Christ and then returning to Japan to forgive his violent captors, is one that needs to be remembered.

[Krystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Unbroken, and really enjoyed it. While this book mentions those experiences, it doesn’t focus on them. He tells of other experiences. This book is about attitude and learning from experiences. Louis Zamperini tells how he was able to live to the age of 97, and gives encouraging advice on how to enjoy life, no matter the circumstances.

[Diane S ☔ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had to read this faster than I wanted to, it's due back at the library tomorrow. Review to follow.

[Marialyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Courage, inspiration, intrepid, and a true Christian American, thy name is Louis Zampierini.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this one. It was a quick read, and had many good life lessons and pointers in it. Highly recommend for anyone who was a fan of the movie or the man himself. 4 out of 5.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

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Rating: 4

Louis Zamperini was well regarded as an olympian, war hero, and spiritual/religious philanthropist. In this new memoir, Zamperini shares his personal feats, lessons, and values he’s learned throughout his life.

I really enjoyed reading this book. Zamperini’s voice and personality really felt alive and seemed to jump off the page (although, I never met him in real life, it felt like I was talking to him on a personal level).

Don’t Give Up, Don’t Give In, is filled with personal anecdotes and advice. I definitely recommend you pick this book up. It’s easy enough to read in two or three sittings, but I think what’s great about this book is you can come to it (or come back to it) and read passages that pertain to how you’re currently feeling. For instance, if you’re close to giving up on a goal, you can read back on something Zamperini lived through and read the quick pick me up he offers.

Warning - To my understanding, Louis Zamperini was very religious and God was a big part of his life. There are references to his conversion and lifestyle in this book. He talks about the role god had in his life, but nothing (or only rarely) does it come off as preachy. There is no condescension or negative thoughts toward non-believers.

Read if you’re interested in: memoirs, non fiction