51 pages • 1 hour read
The Great Alone
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Book Brief
448
Novel • Fiction
Alaska • 1970s
2018
Adult
18+ years
HL720L
Super Short Summary
In The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah, Leni Allbright's coming-of-age story unfolds as her family moves to a remote Alaskan town, Kaneq. Her father, Ernt, a Vietnam veteran with PTSD, struggles to adjust, causing tension and hardship. Despite community support and a deepening friendship with Matthew Walker, escalating domestic violence and personal tragedies challenge Leni and her mother, ultimately leading Leni to return to Alaska as an adult to honor her mother's last wishes. Triggering or sensitive topics include domestic violence and PTSD.
Emotional
Challenging
Adventurous
Melancholic
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
1,035,943 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kristin Hannah's The Great Alone is widely praised for its vivid Alaskan setting and emotional depth. Reviewers commend Hannah's storytelling and character development, highlighting the protagonist's resilience. However, some critique the plot's melodramatic elements and predictability. Overall, it's a moving tale with impactful themes, though not without its flaws.
Who Should Read The Great Alone?
Readers who appreciated the rugged resilience and emotional depth of Cheryl Strayed's Wild or the familial complexities of Kristin Hannah's own The Nightingale will be captivated by The Great Alone. This book is ideal for those who seek powerful family sagas set against the majestic yet unforgiving backdrop of Alaska.
1,035,943 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Coraline (Cora) Allbright
Coraline (Cora) Allbright
Leni's mother, a beautiful woman with surprising strength, who grows accustomed to Alaskan life and forms close friendships with local women. Her devotion to Leni is a defining aspect of her character, influencing many of her actions.
Ernt Allbright
Ernt Allbright
A Vietnam veteran struggling with post-traumatic stress, who moves his family to Alaska in hopes of finding stability. His survival skills and strong opinions are noticeable aspects of his character.
Matthew Walker
Matthew Walker
A solitary child from Kaneq who shares a love of books and Alaskan life with Leni. His relationship with Leni is a key element of his storyline.
"Large Marge" Birdsall
"Large Marge" Birdsall
A perceptive and generous former prosecutor who owns the only grocery store in Kaneq and quickly becomes a supportive figure for the Allbright family. Her insight and community spirit aid the family in adapting to their new environment.
448
Novel • Fiction
Alaska • 1970s
2018
Adult
18+ years
HL720L
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