63 pages • 2 hours read
Two Old Women
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Book Brief
160
Novel • Fiction
Alaska • Pre-contact era
1993
Adult
12+ years
1030L
Super Short Summary
In the 1993 novella Two Old Women by Velma Wallis, two elderly women, Sa' and Ch'idzigyaak, are abandoned by their Alaskan Athabascan tribe during a harsh winter. They embark on a journey of survival, leveraging determination and resilience to overcome initial helplessness and thrive independently. Eventually, they cautiously reconnect with the struggling tribe, leading to mutual respect and valuable lessons. The story includes themes of abandonment and survival in extreme conditions.
Inspirational
Hopeful
Serene
Contemplative
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
21,831 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Velma Wallis' Two Old Women has been praised for its powerful storytelling and rich depiction of Athabaskan culture. Readers admire its themes of resilience and survival, and its portrayal of elder wisdom. Some critiques note its straightforward narrative might lack complexity for some audiences, but overall, it’s celebrated for its inspirational and heartfelt tale.
Who Should Read Two Old Women?
Readers who relish survival stories with cultural depth, such as those found in Jon Krakauer's Into the Wild, would find Two Old Women by Velma Wallis compelling. This narrative weaves traditional Native Alaskan lore with themes of resilience, making it ideal for fans of culturally rich and introspective literature.
21,831 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
160
Novel • Fiction
Alaska • Pre-contact era
1993
Adult
12+ years
1030L
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