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272
Novel • Fiction
Northern Canada • Contemporary
2019
Adult
18+ years
The River by Peter Heller follows Jack and Wynn, two recent Dartmouth graduates, on a canoe expedition through the remote Northern Canadian wilderness. Their journey turns perilous when they encounter a deadly forest fire and a violent confrontation between a husband and wife, propelling them into a desperate struggle against nature and human threats to survive. Topics include violence and attempted sexual assault.
Suspenseful
Adventurous
Dark
Contemplative
Emotional
50,488 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Peter Heller's novel The River is widely praised for its lyrical prose and vivid descriptions of nature, creating an immersive wilderness experience. Critics applaud the suspenseful narrative and strong character development. However, some note a slower pace in parts of the story. Overall, it is lauded as a compelling and atmospheric read.
Readers who love The River by Peter Heller enjoy immersive wilderness adventures mixed with deep friendships and suspense. Fans of Jon Krakauer's Into the Wild or James Dickey's Deliverance will appreciate Heller's vivid nature descriptions and tension-filled, reflective story. Ideal for those drawn to the themes of survival and human resilience.
50,488 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Wynn
A deliberate and sensitive character with a contrasting temperament to Jack, known for his larger metaphysical connections with the environment and his reluctance to impose strength despite being physically powerful. He maintains a strong moral code and is identified as an artist and idealist.
Maia
Initially passive, she is a geochemist with a wealthy background, encountered by Jack and Wynn in a distressing state. Her circumstances and the motivations behind them become a central element of the narrative.
Pierre
The antagonist of the novel, distinguished by his nearsightedness and initial appearance of panic and shock when encountered by Jack and Wynn. He becomes involved in the story's conflict through his violent behavior and complex motives.
The Texans (Brent and JD)
Two individuals with contrasting physiques and former Marine backgrounds, initially encountered by Jack and Wynn as drunken and vulgar. They are skilled in the wilderness, and Brent later exhibits a sense of frontier justice in response to the story's unfolding events.
272
Novel • Fiction
Northern Canada • Contemporary
2019
Adult
18+ years
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