Into the Wild, by Jon Krakauer, is a novel that I found very unique in the sense that the story unfolded in an intriguing way. The boys on the island first started by listening to one boy who took control of everything and they had a sort of society going on for them. They then followed another boy and the two sides began changing as one group stuck to society and logic while the others regressed into wild animals to survive the outside world. The story is immersive and following the boys on the island can be relatable at some moments in the book. I highly recommend picking this book up its worth the read.
Reviewed by E.N., Grade 12
Casa Verdugo Library
1 comment:
The book begins by introducing the main character, Christopher McCandless. He was a very intelligent young man, performing very well in both high school and college. It is revealed that after graduating college, McCandless planned on taking a trip to Alaska to experience nature and what it is like to live alone. In Alaska, McCandless would live to see his death. The book outlines the way McCandless was able to get there and potential causes of death. It began in 1990, when Chris left home, telling his parents he would be gone for only a few months. He abandoned his legal name early on the journey, now going by Alexander Supertramp. His first human encounter was with Wayne Westerberg who owned a grain elevator in Carthage, South Dakota. For months, Alex would work in this grain elevator before hitchhiking to Alaska in April of 1992. A few days into his Alaskan experience, Alex found a bus where he would settle and use as a home. In the bus were his basic necessities as well as a journal where he would explain daily what life was like and the animals he killed for food. In the last few days of his life, the journal consisted of him explaining how he was very weak and that he would try to return to civilization in the near future. Unfortunately, Alex died inside the bus in August of 1992. A month later, a pack of moose hunters would encounter his decomposed body.
As someone who does not normally like reading, I can honestly say that I enjoyed this book. It is not too long, only 224 pages and is very interesting, as it explains the life and death of a real person. The book is fairly paced and does not get boring very often. For people like me who like mysteries and adventurous books, "Into The Wild" should definitely be on your list of books to read. The book made me rethink how precious and unique our lives are. It helped me understand the importance of families and relationships with friends or even strangers. If I were to rate this book I would give it an 8/10. Definitely a must read for high-schoolers!
Reviewed by Jake S., Grade 11
Glendale Central Library
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