Books and Jams Readalong discussion

We are continuing on with Louie Z's story. Has anything surprised you? Has Louie's character changed in any way? Has this made you think about things differently? What are your thoughts so far?

I just finished this section.

I am admiring Louie and other POW more and more as I read this book. What they experienced was horrible in many different aspects. They were tortured and abused both physically and emotionally. Yet they were able to find ways to have will to live.
These parts were hard to read emotionally but the events were written so vividly, it fascinated me. I have a great respect for the author. She told a horrible life experience so beautifully and professionally without being overly emotional.
It looks like it will be a 4.5 or 5 star read for me.

There was a line in this section that described Louie's situation so perfectly, as awful as it was. It said something about all the hells that Louie experienced in the war. It's so true. Each situation was so incredibly horrific! I also love hearing the little ways the soldiers grasped at any shred of fight and dignity they could...from quoting Shakespeare to stealing everything and anything they possibly could. I have such a hatred for The Bird and his disgustingly sadistic torture of Louie. I am ready for the war to be over. It's just hard to keep reading. I cannot even imagine having lived through these experiences.

I am listening to the audio version. Hard. I’ve had to stop a few times. Makes me angry how they were treated. Torture was a sport. I’m ready for it to be over.