 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Into the Wild
- By Jon Krakauer
- Genre: Biography
Common Sense Media says
Mesmerizing, tragic, and intense bio meant for discussion.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know this bestseller was intended for adult readers, but teens may want to read it, thanks to the release of the movie adaptation directed by Sean Penn. Readers will find lots of hitchhiking, discussions of an adulterous relationship, challenges between father and son, and a family's uncertainty of a son's whereabouts and grief upon hearing of his death. The author talks of his own experiences on a high-risk climb in Alaska (including smoking a joint and setting part of his tent on fire).
What's the story?
From the start, the reader learns of Chris McCandless' death and how he was found. Slowly the story unravels in a piecemeal chronological fashion. The reader learns of his upbringing in a wealthy family living in Virginia; meets the members of his family and discovers the causes for challenging relationships; and tails him on his wanderings that started soon after high school graduation.
In college he becomes more distanced from his parents, especially his father, and without any communication after graduation he begins his journey. The reader learns of the places he visited, relationships he formed, the letters he wrote, and his family's reaction to his death. Krakauer parallels this experience with others who have sought adventure, including himself.
Is it any good?
Jon Krakauer, who admits that he identifies with Chris McCandless, carefully follows the bread-crumb trail of McCandless' flight from home after college graduation. He recognizes the recklessness of the young man's behavior and naiveté of his actions, but also describes his brilliance and thoughtfulness. Without over sentimentalizing, he recognizes that most people would not have the wits, intelligence, or internal strength to live as McCandless did for those two years. Ultimately, McCandless made a tragic mistake; one that may not have been made if he had more experience living in the bush, brought a companion, or had a means of communication.
It's a chilling read and one that can't be put down, but it may not be appropriate for sensitive teen readers or any teens without the maturity to see past the adventure. Overall, parents who have enjoyed it and passed it on to their teens will have much to discuss.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about risk behaviors, including the dangers of hitchhiking and living in a remote area on your own. Parents can ask their teens about their own wanderlust. What is the lure of a wilderness adventure? Or would you rather tour foreign cities? How can this sense adventure be satisfied while being safe? What are specific precautions you should take as a young traveler?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
I hated this
This book was not okay for my age. It had a lot of bad language and I would not recomend it for anyone under sixteen.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
great
Pretty good post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed reading your blog posts.Any way Ill be subscribing to your feed and I hope you post again soon custom logo designs | custom website designs
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Sometimes, the message overpowers the intense subject matter
Personally, I think the rating 15+ is a little but of an overreaction, the book while at times is mature, really conveys a powerful journey. It shows the hardships and downfalls that occurred during this journey as well as the happiness and joy that he earned as well. I think this book shouldn't be judged as to whom may read it solely based on age. I think it depends completely on maturity.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Wonderful book as well as a WONDERFUL movie
I really liked the book. Jon Krakauer is an excellent author who did lots of research to do this book. I liked the book and allowed for my daughter to read it as well. I felt that people who like the book should watch the movie and that even if you didn't read the book that you should watch the movie.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Not a kid's book!!!
I read this book and so did my son. It was great!!!! Drug content and Language with some violence. Little sexual content.
Was this review useful?
|
|
| Author: | Jon Krakauer |
| Book type: | Non-Fiction |
| Genre: | Biography |
| Publisher: | Anchor Books |
| Publication date: | January 19, 1997 |
| Number of pages: | 224 |
| Hardcover price: | $24.50 |
| Paperback price: | $13.95 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 15 - 17 |
Review It
Register now to save reviews and advice articles to your personal lists!
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
Already read it? What do you think?
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
