The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
$29.97
“The Great Alone” by Kristin Hannah tells the story of a Vietnam War veteran who takes his family to live in Alaska in the 1970s. It’s a captivating novel that delves into themes of survival, love, and resilience, as they confront the tough trials of solitude and the breathtaking yet harsh Alaskan wilderness.
Book Summary
In 1974, the Allbright family, consisting of Ernt, Cora, and Leni, moves from Seattle to Kaneq, Alaska. Ernt, a Vietnam veteran with mental issues, is given land in Alaska by his friend Bo Harlan. The family hopes this move will help Ernt cope with his discontent with society. However, they quickly realize they are ill-prepared for survival. They befriend the Harlan family and their neighbor Marge, who helps them settle.
Leni starts school and befriends Matthew, the only kid her age. Her dad, Ernt, clashes with Matthew’s dad, Tom, at a community party. Despite this, Leni and Matthew stay friends. After Matthew’s mom’s death, he moves away, but they keep in touch via letters.
The Allbrights learn survival skills from the community, but Ernt’s anger grows. He spends time with Earl Harlan, drinking and worrying about an impending war. Ernt becomes abusive, and Leni witnesses her parents’ physical fight.
Wolves kill their livestock one night, prompting a visit to town. Tom Walker helps them, but Ernt lashes out, locking Leni out and abusing Cora. Leni decides to escape with her mom but ends up in a hospital after a moose encounter.
Four years pass, and Ernt’s behavior temporarily improves. Matthew returns, and he and Leni secretly date. Tensions rise in Kaneq, and Ernt’s actions become erratic. He builds a barricade around his property, frightening Leni and Cora.
Leni and Cora decide to escape. When they encounter Matthew in town, Ernt abuses Cora. Matthew saves them, but a mountain incident leaves him severely injured. Cora shoots Ernt when he abuses Leni. They hide his body and escape to Seattle.
Years later, in 1986, Leni has graduated college and raised her son, MJ. Cora dies of lung cancer, leaving a confession for Ernt’s murder. Leni returns to Alaska, ends up in jail, but is freed thanks to Tom. She reunites with Matthew and they start a family.
Leni becomes a renowned photographer, cherishing the Alaskan wilderness. She holds a funeral for Cora and reflects on her journey.
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