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Defiant Courage

By: Astrid Karlson Scott, Tore Haug
Narrated by: Peter Altschuler
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Editorial reviews

Some listeners might already be familiar with this amazing true story of survival during World War II. But even armed with the general knowledge of Jan Baalsrud’s escape from the Nazis into Arctic Norway after a failed sabotage operation, nothing compares to listening to this incredible tale as it unfolds moment by moment.

Peter Altshuler performs the diligently researched Defiant Courage with a keen ear not only for Norwegian names but also for texturizing and adding life to a story. Not that the story needs much embellishment. At one point in his escape, Baalsrud had been buried under an avalanche, had amputated nine of his toes, and was snow blind. His unlikely survival remains one of the great stories of World War II.

Publisher's summary

In late March of 1943, four commandos arrive in northern Norway with a mission of establishing a base for sabotage operations. Before they can unload their cutter, they are betrayed, as a German Schnell boat arrives and turns the quiet fjord into a battle zone. Only one man, Jan Baalsrud, surrvives the attack. This is the story of his perilous journey to freedom.

Wounded, the dauntless soldier swims icy fjord waters, climbs snow-laden granite peaks, endures violent snowstorms and is hurled off a mountain by an avalanche. Fleeing the Gestapo and battling the harsh Arctic cold, Jan suffers snowblindness and frostbite. Though he possesses raw courage and an iron will, they are not enough to deliver him all the way to neutral Sweden and safety.

The people of northern Norway's Troms district step forward to assist Jan. Selflessly defying Nazi dictates, more than 60 people risk their lives to help the fugitive commando.

©2010 Astrid Karlsen Scott and Dr. Tore Haug (P)2012 Audible, Inc.
  • Unabridged Audiobook
  • Categories: History

What listeners say about Defiant Courage

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Excellent, old-school story

The tone of this book reminded me of 1950s America, before Nam and endless scandals stole our innocence.

The subject matter is first rate. The heroic soldier certainly inspired me not to whine about my little physical problems. I’ve been recommending this one to everyone I know who uses Audible.

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Amazon book with an espectacular narrator

Got this book after I watched the movie. Could start reading by myself, so I decided to hear the audio. The narrator was incredible, he made me feel every page he read. I absolutely love the book more than the movie because of him.

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Gripping story of courage and love

What a powerful story of courage... so thoroughly researched and artfully crafted. I had a difficult time putting it down. For days I lived and dreamed the story I had listened to. Captivating.

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Epic war story

I liked this true story of another aspect of WW2.
Felt frozen most of the time from author's descriptions of snow and wind!

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Great untold story.

A well read and very interesting story. Amazing courage from all involved in Jan’s escape.

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what a great story

insane stuff happened in this situation during world War 2 incredible story telling that will leave you wanting more

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A “page turner”

I could not put this book down it was so captivating and had me on the edge of my seat throughout. So glad you offered it and hope that other people listen to it and learn a little bit more history about World War II, Norway, Germany, and the goodness of people. It’s also an encouragement to push on no matter how severe the pain or difficulties!

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God bless the Norwegians & Vikings!

What a tribute to the men, women and children of Norway and Sweden and everywhere in between who plowed on for freedom and the love of mankind! Such perseverance and determination to see this mission through no matter what the cost. May all good men and women see, understand, and endeavor to be as those who were part of this dangerous but glorious mission do the same!

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Amazing story but needs pdf maps to be included

The authors used their exhaustive research to weave an inspiring narrative of many heroes… but it’s hard to follow all the characters, movements and locations without any visual reference; The inclusion of a downloadable pdf with those photos and maps, and maybe a timeline would enhance the readers understanding and appreciation of what these people sacrificed and endured.

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The Courage of a Community to Rescue One Man

This is a great story and Audible has done another outstanding job with the audio version of this book.

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