Summary
The Great Alone, a gripping historical fiction novel by Kristin Hannah, took the literary world by storm upon its release in 2018. This New York Times bestseller captivated readers with its powerful portrayal of a family's struggle for survival in the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness during the 1970s. Hannah's vivid descriptions and compelling characters earned the book widespread acclaim, including the Best Historical Fiction award at the 2018 Goodreads Choice Awards.
The novel's success extends beyond its critical reception, having sold over two million copies in the United States alone. Its popularity is further evidenced by its four-week reign at the top of The New York Times Fiction Best Seller list. The audiobook version, narrated by the acclaimed Julia Whelan, has been praised for its immersive storytelling, making it a favorite among Audible listeners.
Plot
In 1974, the Allbright family moves to Alaska seeking a fresh start. Ernt Allbright, a Vietnam War veteran struggling with PTSD, decides to relocate his wife Cora and their 13-year-old daughter Leni to the remote wilderness. They hope to find peace and stability in America's last frontier, away from the pressures of modern society that have been exacerbating Ernt's volatile behavior.
Initially, Alaska seems to offer the new beginning they desperately need. The family settles into a small, tight-knit community of hardy pioneers. They work to prepare for the harsh winter ahead, learning survival skills from their neighbors. Leni begins to feel a sense of belonging she's never experienced before, while Cora remains devoted to supporting her husband. The endless summer days and rugged beauty of their surroundings inspire hope for a brighter future.
However, as winter approaches and darkness descends on the Alaskan landscape, the Allbrights' situation deteriorates. Ernt's mental health worsens in the isolation and long nights. His behavior becomes increasingly erratic and abusive, particularly towards Cora. Leni watches helplessly as her father's instability threatens to tear the family apart. The dangers of the unforgiving wilderness pale in comparison to the threat Ernt poses within their own home.
Trapped in their small cabin during the brutal winter, Leni and Cora must find the strength to survive not only the harsh elements but also Ernt's escalating violence. They come to the chilling realization that in this remote corner of Alaska, they have no one to rely on but themselves. Mother and daughter must summon incredible resilience and courage as they fight for their lives against both man and nature in the untamed Alaskan frontier.
Themes
Survival in the harsh Alaskan wilderness
Impact of domestic violence on families
Coming of age in a tumultuous environment
Resilience and strength of the human spirit
Consequences of untreated post-traumatic stress disorder
Beauty and danger of nature
Isolation and its effects on mental health
Setting
Set in the tumultuous 1970s, The Great Alone unfolds against the backdrop of a nation grappling with the aftermath of the Vietnam War and political upheaval. This era of social change and uncertainty provides a fitting context for the Allbright family's journey into the untamed wilderness of Alaska.
The story primarily takes place in the vast, rugged landscape of America's Last Frontier. Alaska, with its breathtaking beauty and unforgiving terrain, becomes a character in its own right. The author vividly portrays the state's extreme conditions, from the long, sunlit days of summer to the oppressive darkness of winter, creating an immersive atmosphere that mirrors the characters' emotional struggles.
Within this expansive setting, the narrative focuses on a remote corner of Alaska where the Allbrights settle. Their small cabin, nestled in a fiercely independent community, becomes the epicenter of the family's triumphs and tribulations. This isolated microcosm serves as a stark contrast to the wider Alaskan wilderness, emphasizing the themes of survival, resilience, and the complex dynamics between humans and nature.
Characters
Leni Allbright: The 13-year-old protagonist and narrator of the story. Leni is a resilient and mature young girl caught between her parents' volatile relationship. She adapts quickly to life in Alaska and finds solace in nature and books. As she comes of age, Leni develops a strong sense of independence and learns to survive in the harsh Alaskan wilderness.
Cora Allbright: Leni's mother, a beautiful and devoted wife who will do anything for her husband Ernt. Cora struggles with the challenges of life in Alaska while trying to protect Leni from Ernt's increasingly erratic behavior. She eventually finds her own strength and voice as the story progresses.
Ernt Allbright: Leni's father, a Vietnam War veteran suffering from PTSD and alcoholism. Ernt becomes increasingly paranoid and violent as the family settles in Alaska. His unstable behavior poses a constant threat to Cora and Leni, driving much of the story's conflict.
Matthew Walker: A local Alaskan boy who becomes Leni's close friend and eventual love interest. Matthew is kind, supportive, and helps Leni navigate life in their small Alaskan community.
Large Marge: A former lawyer turned general store owner in the Alaskan community. Large Marge becomes a mentor and protector for Leni and Cora, offering them support and guidance.
Tom Walker: Matthew's father and a wealthy businessman in the area. He often clashes with Ernt over political and personal issues.
Mad Earl: An eccentric neighbor who shares Ernt's paranoid worldview. He becomes Ernt's friend and enabler in Alaska.
Quick facts
The book's title is a reference to Robert W. Service's poem “The Shooting of Dan McGrew"
It spent 4 weeks at number one on The New York Times Fiction Best Seller list in 2018
The novel has sold over 2 million copies in the United States as of 2021
It won Best Historical Fiction at the 2018 Goodreads Choice Awards
The audiobook is narrated by Julia Whelan, who also narrated Gone Girl and Fates and Furies
Kristin Hannah reads the acknowledgements in the audiobook version
The story is partially inspired by Hannah's own family experiences in Alaska
Hannah initially wrote the book as a thriller before revising it to its current form
Sony's TriStar Pictures purchased the movie rights before the book was even published
The novel is set in 1974 Alaska, during a time of political and social upheaval in the United States
About the Author
Kristin Hannah is an award-winning American author with over 20 novels to her name. Born in California in 1960, she initially pursued a career in law before dedicating herself to writing full-time. Hannah's breakthrough came with The Nightingale, an international bestseller that has sold more than 4.5 million copies worldwide and been translated into 45 languages.
Hannah's work often explores themes of family, resilience, and historical events. Her novels The Great Alone and The Four Winds both debuted at #1 on the New York Times bestseller list, cementing her status as a literary powerhouse. Her latest book, The Women, released in February 2024, delves into the experiences of nurses serving in the Vietnam War.
The author's popularity extends beyond the page. Firefly Lane, her novel about two best friends, was adapted into a hit Netflix series starring Katherine Heigl and Sarah Chalke. Several of her other works, including The Nightingale and The Great Alone, have been optioned for film adaptations, further expanding her reach to audiences worldwide.
Hannah currently resides in the Pacific Northwest with her family, drawing inspiration from the region's natural beauty. With each new release, she continues to captivate readers with her compelling storytelling and deep emotional resonance.
