The Great Alone in MCLS Reading Challenge

Sep 13, 2017 Claire Talbot rated it really liked it

The Great Alone is a good read, and although it is a historical fiction, it is different from "The Nightingale". My favorite parts of the book were the description of Alaska, and thinking of it in the terms of the old homesteaders versus the tourists. Kristin Hannah weaves in references to the 1970's which make it easy to imagine the scenes and the characters. The pop culture references are not overdone, but reading about certain books, what songs are playing on the radio, etc., does make one re The Great Alone is a good read, and although it is a historical fiction, it is different from "The Nightingale". My favorite parts of the book were the description of Alaska, and thinking of it in the terms of the old homesteaders versus the tourists. Kristin Hannah weaves in references to the 1970's which make it easy to imagine the scenes and the characters. The pop culture references are not overdone, but reading about certain books, what songs are playing on the radio, etc., does make one reminisce!
The theme of domestic abuse runs through this novel, with Vietnam vet Ernt bullying and beating his wife, Cora. Daughter Leni loves her mother unconditionally, and feels it is her duty to protect her and stay with her. The two of them "walk on eggshells" trying not to upset Ernt, and fear the repercussions of not living up to his unattainable expectations. When the family moves to Alaska for a fresh start, they are overwhelmed with the beauty of the country, but so unprepared for the hardships of living off the land. Wife Cora even packs her purple hot pants for the trip, and comments on people who use animal carcasses as "decor". Despite the odds against them, the little family settles in, with the help of a few neighbors who truly pitch in to help. I loved the characters in the town, especially Large Marge. My favorite part of the story was watching Leni grow up, become fiercely attached to her new home, falling in love for the first time, and realizing the toxic relationship of her parents. I really think the focus on Leni's story would make this a great book for teens to read. My least favorite part of the book was reading about Ernt's abuse, and Cora's inability to save herself and her daughter until it was almost too late. Her decisions had grave repercussions for the both of them. I gave it four stars because to me the ending was a bit hard to believe. All in all, a very good read, and an excellent depiction of Alaska. It really made me put Alaska on my travel bucket list! ...more

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Feb 04, 2024 Karen rated it it was amazing

This is the first book I have read written by Kristin Hannah. I know this book received a lot of attention and I now understand why so many people chose this book for a book discussion read. I am blown away by the story. It was so powerful and Kristin Hannah is such an amazing story teller. I love books that take place in Alaska, and the details about living there was interesting. I read this book in one sitting and could not stop. I wanted a happy ending I almost found myself jumping to the bot ...more

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Dec 09, 2019 Lea Elizabeth Ludwig rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: bookclub-mason-valley, 2019-books

*3.5 stars* Interesting beginning, action packed ending, slow & boring middle. Beautiful writing and interesting characters, but, Kristin Hannah could have made this book about 100 pages shorter. Most wanted: One of those fictitious maps of the homesteads in Alaska that Authors sometimes provide; I had a lot of trouble picturing the setting. I am still processing this story and can’t wait to discuss it with my book club!

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