71 pages • 2 hours read
Daniel James BrownThe Boys in the Boat
Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2013A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown narrates the journey of the University of Washington's rowing team as they pursue gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics during the Great Depression and under the shadow of Adolf Hitler's rise to power. Central to the story is Joe Rantz, whose life of hardship and personal growth underscores the themes of teamwork, family, and social class. The source material references the Holocaust, poverty, abandonment, and Nazi Germany.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown has been praised for its compelling narrative and thorough historical research, effectively capturing the spirit and resolve of the 1936 U.S. Olympic rowing team. Some critics note that the detailed accounts can occasionally slow the pacing. Overall, it is lauded for its inspirational and engaging storytelling.
Who Should Read The Boys in the Boat?
Readers who enjoyed Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand or Seabiscuit will be captivated by The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown. This book appeals to those interested in history, sports, and human resilience, offering a compelling narrative of the 1936 U.S. Olympic rowing team's journey against great odds.
RecommendedReading Age
14+yearsLexile Level
1260L