Into the Wild

by Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Travel and Adventure
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Bookshop
Format • £7.59–£11.39
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Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 1229
  • Added: 2025-10-01
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781529011906
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2018-07-12
  • Formats: 35
  • Reviews: 4

Into the Wild tells the true story of Chris McCandless, a young man who abandoned his possessions and ventured into the Alaskan wilderness seeking a life of solitude and self-discovery. His journey, filled with both beauty and harshness, ultimately ended in tragedy, leaving behind a mystery that captivates readers. The book explores the allure of the wilderness and the human spirit's quest for meaning, as well as the consequences of such a journey. Jon Krakauer's meticulous research and compelling narrative bring Chris's story to life, making it a modern classic of travel writing and adventure literature.

Reviews
goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-10-22
brilliant 4.50

The reviewer finds 'Cat's Cradle' to be a brilliant and focused book with near-perfect economy and wit. They appreciate its themes of science and religion, and how humor is used to address the horrifying potential destruction of the world. The reviewer also highlights the effectiveness of Bokononism as a fictional religion and the book's ability to make people think about serious issues.

The reviewer has a lot of praise for 'Cat's Cradle', calling it one of Vonnegut's best novels. They appreciate the book's focus and wit, as well as its exploration of themes like the irresponsible use of science and the power of religion. The reviewer also highlights the effectiveness of Bokononism as a fictional religion and the book's ability to make people think about serious issues. They also mention that the book's humor is a powerful weapon in helping people relate to the threat of nuclear holocaust. The reviewer also expresses a desire for more books like 'Cat's Cradle' that can help us laugh at global warming and the financial meltdown.

Quick quotes

    This isn't Ulysses, you know, it's short and funny!

    I love the line "Nice going, God!

    It's amazing how powerful a weapon humor is; I feel they did more to help persuade us not to blow ourselves up.

Reddit - Books · Reddit User · 2025-10-09
enjoyable 3.50

The reviewer enjoyed the book, finding it a worthwhile read despite not being Krakauer's best work. They compare it favorably to his other books, particularly 'Into Thin Air'.

A Reddit user shares their positive experience with 'Into the Wild,' noting that while it may not be Jon Krakauer's finest work, it is still a compelling read. They appreciate the book's exploration of Chris McCandless's journey and the themes of self-discovery and adventure. The reviewer finds the narrative engaging and believes it offers valuable insights into the human spirit, making it a book worth picking up.

Quick quotes

    Personally, I enjoyed it.

    Not Krakauer's best book by a long shot (Into Thin Air was my favorite) but I think it's worth a read.

    It's a compelling story that offers a lot to think about regarding self-discovery and the allure of the wilderness.

Motorhome Hobos · 2025-10-09
fascinating 4.00

The book is described as a perfect read for those interested in van life and the wilderness experience. The reviewer highlights its deeper themes and engaging narrative.

Motorhome Hobos finds 'Into the Wild' to be a perfect read for those drawn to the allure of van life and the wilderness. They appreciate the book's exploration of idealism and the darker aspects of the wilderness experience. The reviewer is particularly impressed by how Krakauer weaves deeper themes into the narrative, making it both engaging and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    A fascinating story of idealism, fantasy, and the dark side of the wilderness experience.

    Krakauer's research and storytelling make this book a must-read for any travel enthusiast.

    The book's exploration of Chris McCandless's journey is both captivating and introspective.

Medium · 2025-10-09
touching 4.00

The book is described as a good non-fiction read that touches on deeper themes. The reviewer appreciates the story's emotional depth and its exploration of human yearning.

The reviewer on Medium describes 'Into the Wild' as a good non-fiction read that touches on deeper themes through the story of Chris McCandless. They appreciate the book's emotional depth and its exploration of human yearning, finding it both touching and thought-provoking. The reviewer notes that the narrative is well-crafted, making it a compelling read that resonates with readers on a personal level. The emotional impact of the story is particularly highlighted, making it a memorable and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    'Into the Wild' is a good non-fiction read.

    Touching on deeper themes through the story of Chris McCandless.

    The narrative is well-crafted, making it a compelling read.

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