47 pages • 1 hour read
Alive
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Book Brief
318
Book • Nonfiction
Andes Mountains • 1970s
1974
Adult
18+ years
1160L
Super Short Summary
Alive by Piers Paul Read is a nonfiction book about the true story of a Uruguayan rugby team whose plane crashed in the Andes mountains in 1972. Stranded in extreme conditions, the survivors are forced to confront unimaginable challenges, including resorting to cannibalism to stay alive. This gripping narrative highlights their resilience, the arduous journey to find help, and the eventual rescue.
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Dark
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
82,784 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Piers Paul Read's Alive captures the harrowing survival story of a Uruguayan rugby team after a plane crash in the Andes. Reviews highlight its gripping, raw narrative and meticulous research, offering a profound exploration of human endurance. While some find it too graphic, others praise its unflinching honesty. Overall, it's compelling and thought-provoking, though not for the faint-hearted.
Who Should Read Alive?
Fans of survival tales such as Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer or Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand will appreciate Alive by Piers Paul Read. Readers fascinated by real-life stories of human endurance in extreme conditions will find this gripping account of an Andes plane crash compelling.
82,784 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Roberto Canessa
Roberto Canessa
A medical student and rugby team member whose skills are crucial following the crash, he becomes an important but divisive figure among the survivors.
Carlitos Paez
Carlitos Paez
A rugby player and crash survivor who initially struggles but becomes a source of optimism and moral support for the group.
Roy Harley
Roy Harley
A survivor with limited mechanical skills assigned to fix the radio, he struggles with his confidence after a failed trek.
Alfredo Delgado
Alfredo Delgado
A survivor facing accusations of stealing extra rations, he struggles with trust issues and social responsibility within the group.
318
Book • Nonfiction
Andes Mountains • 1970s
1974
Adult
18+ years
1160L
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