The Great Alone, Kristin Hannah

I think I have an author crush (not in a creepy way, just in the way I devour her books). Kristin Hannah is simply a master storyteller, and it would be a dream come true if my books were as well-received as hers.

I must admit, I had absolutely no idea what The Great Alone was about. The only thing I've ever really heard about it was how great it was, but never anything specific or simple, like what the storyline was about. (And I thought the cover looked boring, so I kinda avoid it - just being honest.)

I'm torn in half with thoughts over this book. The first camp sits with the book itself, and the second is the fact that I have never quite understood why my son, who chose to move to Alaska when he was twenty, still resides there twelve years later. I've been to Alaska - man, that place is harsh. Gorgeous like no other but harsh.

The book is an incredible story about the Allbrights, Ernt, a Vietnam vet/POW who struggles with serious deep-rooted demons, Cora, who is unnaturally loved by Ernt to the point of obsession and to which she reciprocates, and their daughter, Leni, who at the age of 13 is thrown into the wilderness without running water, indoor facilities, electricity, and so on. Somehow, this family forges a way of life and not just survives but thrives, in their ways, in The Great Alone.

There is great tragedy in the Allbright family, but Ms. Hannah spins the tale to where no matter how awful the event, as the reader, you can't, won't, and don't want to put the book down; you actually turn the pages faster.

If you are like me and thrown off by the dull cover, rip it off and open up this incredible piece of work. You will thank me. And now, I must write my son a letter of understanding. I get it now, as with Leni Allbright, my son, Kowboy, belongs in The Great Alone.