The Great Alone

The Great Alone
By: Kristin Hannah

Set in the 1970’s and 80’s in the Alaskan bush makes for a unique setting I haven’t read before. I actually was hesitant that this book was just going to be kinda boring- not a big mysterious or complicated problem to solve, just some family dysfunction and drama paired with surviving and homesteading in the wilderness.

And no, it was not a thriller, and yes, the dysfunction in the family was angering. But after finishing, I think it painted a good picture of the struggles and psychology behind domestic abuse situations. Although I’m not speaking from experience to evaluate the authenticity of the interactions, I felt enlightened to the battle victims face in the tug of war between love and hate and the questioning of what point do you ‘give up’ on a relationship.

I also appreciated the picture of resilience we see in Leni in how she handled all the different kinds of hardships. Creating our children to be resilient is a huge thing. I can see how just living in Alaska enforces that trait- how do we do that in comfortable and convenient suburbs?

A book worth reading that I feel will help you understand people a little more. Oh and will probably confirm your choice to visit but not live in Alaska...