Title of the Book: Into the Wild Author: Jon Krakauer 297 of Pages: Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆

Around this time, April, in 1992, a man by the name of Alex McCandless was found dead in the Alaskan wilderness. “Into the Wild” is his story- told by a stranger. Jon Krakauer took on the challenge of learning everything he could about this strange man to gain a better understanding of what might have drawn McCandless into the wilderness where he eventually passed away. Although Krakauer didn’t know who Alex McCandless was, he did have a lot in common with him. They both had some sort of family problems that stuck with them into adulthood, they both loved the wilderness, and they both liked to take risks. In a way, Krakauer was able to empathise with McCandless and understood how he felt.

Since this book was written after McCandless’ death by a man who never knew him, it is hard to know exactly what happened, how it happened, and why it happened. Fortunately, it was written by a very dedicated man who put much time and effort into telling McCandless’ story in an authentic way. McCandless did have a journal which contributed greatly when putting the story together, but aside from that, the book is filled with interviews of people who knew McCandless. However, this isn’t just a boring book filled with interviews and journal entries. Instead, it is as if Krakauer followed McCandless’ footsteps, experienced the exact things he did, and in a way, became McCandless. Throughout the book, you forget that McCandless is dead because it feels as though you are on the journey with him. It is filled with vivid details and descriptions of the people who knew McCandless, the places he went, and the things he did. This book draws you and forces you to feel the things McCandless and Krakauer felt.

Jon Krakauer has written many books in the past, including his journey up Mount Everest, where he witnessed the death of five men. This, along with his love for the wilderness makes him a great choice for the writer of this book. Krakauer did a great job at keeping his opinions to himself when writing the parts of McCandless. Because of him, the story of McCandless was clear and detailed. Everything worked together perfectly and nothing seemed off or confusing.

One of the most memorable part of the book was when Krakauer described McCandless’ journey in Alaska. It was the moment that everything was leading up to. It talked about the trial and triumphs of his time all alone in the alaskan wilderness. It was the most memorable because of the emotions I felt. I felt his pain when he was hurting and I was filled with joy when he overcame his troubles. It made me forget that he was gone.

I would recommend this book to everyone. No matter who reads this, they will get something out of it. It gives insight into a whole nother way of living and the challenges that come with it. It tells a story of a man who was determined to reach his goal. It teaches us about determination, motivation, and trusting yourself.