Into The Wild

Title of the Book: Into The Wild Author: Jon Krakauer Number of Pages: 203 Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ Review: Seldom does one find a non-fiction novel that captures the most intense human instincts and emotions that Into The Wild embraces. Jon Krakauer pieces together a masterpiece, recounting the adventure that was Chris McCandless’s life. The outdoors offer a fierce but breathtaking sanctuary for all living things. Chris McCandless was fed up with society, people, and social norms. He never bought into the ideas that most people desire: money, power, fame. He couldn’t watch the way people treated others in such poor ways, so he decided to leave it all behind. Embarking on a journey that takes him across the country, to Mexico, and finally… Alaska! Into the Wild is a rare novel that is able to connect with the reader at a very fundamental level, while giving them a glimpse of what life is life in the wild. Fantasy’s are written when authors feel nothing on earth, nothing real, can satisfy their cravings for adventure. Into the Wild is a literary non-fiction novel that exceeds the thrill of many great fantasy tales. The story itself is one that is so rare, so brave, and so wild. Written as a combination of Chris’s own journals, his family and friends’ input, and Krakauer’s added insight; the reader is able to receive the full experience of Christopher McCandless and how he affected those around him. He had a different way of thinking, a different way of talking to people, and a different way of loving and living. The story is so unique because Chris was so unique. When reading, it is impossible to ignore the bravery, individualism, passion, and intelligence of Chris. Yet we also see the downsides to his character. His hamartia was one of the very qualities that made him so admirable, his independence. Perhaps if Chris was more willing to forgive or listen to others, he would’ve met a more deserving ending. The reader is exposed to the utter despair his family and friends faced after his death, there is no hiding how Chris’s actions led to so much pain in others. Chris’s fate is revealed at the beginning of the book, this allows the reader to empathize with him even more throughout his adventures. From the beginning of his exploits, it is clear that Chris is an individual. He refuses to be persuaded by others if he believes it will negatively impact his journey. Even so, he is never cruel to others. He valued life, he valued kindness, he valued human connection. This book is for anyone that is seeking for a deeper meaning in life, more powerful connections with others, and the self confidence to achieve their dreams. Anyone that has the opportunity to read this book with an open mind will learn a lot from Chris. There is much to be learned from his illustriousness, as well as his flaws.