Into the Wild

by Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild cover
Good Books rating 4.06
Travel and Adventure
Technical:
  • ID: 1229
  • Added: 2025-10-01
  • Updated: 2025-10-09
  • ISBN: 9781529011906
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2018-07-12
  • Formats: 35
  • Reviews: 4
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Bookshop
Format • £7.59–£11.39

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer delves into the true story of Chris McCandless, who ventured into the Alaskan wilderness seeking independence and adventure. His journey, marked by extreme isolation and harsh conditions, ended tragically, leaving behind a mystery that Krakauer meticulously unravels. /n/nThe book is not just an account of McCandless's final days but also an exploration of the human spirit's quest for freedom and the relentless beauty and brutality of nature. Krakauer's narrative is enhanced by his own experiences as a wilderness adventurer, providing a deep and insightful look into the forces that drive some individuals to take such extreme risks.

Reviews
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.

The New York Times · Verlyn Klinkenborg · 2025-10-01
heart-rending 4.75

They find the book to be a heart-rending drama that transforms the story of McCandless into a profound exploration of human yearning.

The reviewer is deeply moved by Krakauer's ability to transform the story of a young man's journey into the wild into a profound exploration of human yearning. They praise the book for its emotional depth and the way it captures the complexities of McCandless's character. The reviewer finds the narrative to be both heart-rending and thought-provoking, making it a memorable and impactful read. They appreciate Krakauer's storytelling skills and the way he brings the story to life.

Quick quotes

    A heart-rending drama of human yearning.

    Krakauer has taken the tale of a kook who went into the woods, and made of it a profound exploration.

    The narrative captures the complexities of McCandless's character.

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