50 pages 1 hour read

Follow the River

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1981

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Book Brief

James Alexander Thom

Follow the River

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1981
Book Details
Pages

406

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American Frontier • 1750s

Publication Year

1981

Publisher

Ballantine Books

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Follow the River by James Alexander Thom narrates the harrowing journey of Mary Draper Ingles, an ordinary woman who is kidnapped by Shawnee warriors in 1755, but escapes and treks hundreds of miles through perilous wilderness to reunite with her husband, Will. The story emphasizes Human Fragility in the Wilderness, Relationships Between Settlers and Indigenous Americans, and Love and Faith as a Source of Strength. This story contains discussions of racism, suicidal ideation, torture, potential sexual assault, wartime atrocities, and physical and psychological suffering.

Adventurous

Gritty

Suspenseful

Challenging

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

27,524 ratings

83%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

James Alexander Thom's Follow the River captivates readers with its vivid historical accuracy and gripping narrative about survival and resilience. Positive reviews highlight Thom's detailed research and compelling storytelling. However, some readers found the pacing uneven and the depictions occasionally grueling. Despite this, the novel remains a powerful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Follow the River?

Readers who relish tales of survival, Native American history, and rich historical detail will appreciate Follow the River by James Alexander Thom. Fans of books like Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand and The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper will find it particularly compelling.

4.4

27,524 ratings

83%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Mary Draper Ingles

A 23-year-old frontier woman known for her survival skills and determination, who navigates the challenges of capture and the wilderness with resilience and stoicism. Her character grapples with the complexities of frontier life and her own biases.

An elderly woman of German origin who serves as a foil to Mary, showing strength yet struggling with the hardships they endure. Her journey highlights the impact of dire circumstances on human behavior.

A Shawnee chieftain characterized by his commanding presence and complex perspective on the captives. His interactions with Mary reveal both his leadership qualities and personal struggles.

Mary’s young sister-in-law, who shares her initial ordeal and provides a contrast to Mary's resilience through her own vulnerabilities and hardships. Her experiences reflect the broader impact of conflict on families.

Mary’s devoted husband, a farmer whose actions and feelings illustrate his deep love and traditional views. His journey is marked by his attempts to reconcile his guilt with his desire to reunite his family.

Book Details
Pages

406

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American Frontier • 1750s

Publication Year

1981

Publisher

Ballantine Books

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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