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Into the Wild was a very interesting book to read about with a surprise twist of revealing the tragic death of Chris McCandless at the beginning of the story. Throughout the story, it's fair to say I had mixed feelings about Chris McCandless due to his actions. However, in the end I am proud of his accomplishments and the way he lived his best life.

The GOOD: Before his trip to Alaska, Chris donates $24,000 to charity, which definitely pushes me to like him because of this selfless act. I admire that he was a very determined person to living his dream and accomplishing what he wanted in life. Most of us fail to do that, but Chris pushed through and lives his dream adventure. Without any experience as a hunter, Chris manages to survive for 113 days all by himself. I found that to be very impressive and was happy to hear that he ended up wanting to return to civilization.

The BAD: I did not like the fact that he did just abandon his family without saying his word. I understand that he didn't have the greatest relationship with his parents after finding out about the huge secret of Walt's second family, but those are his parents and Chris left huge, detrimental pain. In addition, I was disappointed that he left Carine behind. Learning that him and Carine had a very close relationship made it sad that Chris had just left. In general, anyone who got to close to Chris made Chris leave without saying a word. Chris abandoning Ron Franz, however, was very sad compared to all the other people Chris has met. Ron Franz saw Chris as a grandson of his and their relationship was absolutely sweet. The amount of great memories and happy feelings they shared made it extremely sad to hear Chris leave Ron.

To wrap it up, I do believe that Chris can be a good person, but he also has his bad moments. However, I believe that this is normal because we're all our own person who's capable of doing anything we set our minds to. Sadly, his choices led him to his lethal fate, but long live Chris McCandless. Chris, the inexperienced hunter who goes on his dream adventure to Alaska, may he rest in peace.

#GoodAndBad #OurOwnPerson #RIPChrisMcCandless

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As a kid and up til now, I have a huge passion for the arts and drawing. For certain occasions like Christmas and my Birthdays, there is always at least one gift that contains art supplies. From these gifts growing up, I realize that art is such a huge part of my life. Recently, I became fond of this tattoo I really want and desire. I started showing my friends and family how gorgeous the tattoo is and agreed as well. One of my cousins was really fond of the tattoo I showed her and she designed a sketch, but added personal touches. She was joking with me to draw it and I said I'd be down to do it, so I took it home with me. That night, I drew the sketch, but more detailed and she loved it. She told me I should consider becoming a tattoo artist and the thought of it stuck in my mind. Now that I started reflecting on her opinion, I thought if I have the time, I would enjoy being a tattoo artist as a side job and being able to display my art onto other people sounds so fun. An additional benefit to this is that I love art and it plays a big role in my life.

Like McCandless, I feel like this decision wouldn't be 100% supported. However, regardless of what people say I think it would be an awesome job. If nursing doesn't work out for me, I could consider this as a possible back up job. If nursing does work out for me, I would still consider being a tattoo artist as a side job. The best thing is that if I had both jobs, I could compromise the work because I would be able to know about the human body and how tattoo guns work, trying to make it as painless as possible for clients. Plus, the idea of being a tattoo artist revolves around my passion for art. I could first test out drawing tattoos on tattoo sponges, move onto fruits, and then accomplish this goal and tattoo more and more clients. It’s still a far trip from this odyssey, but I look forward to make my goals come true. :)

#AGirlCanDream #PassionateForArt #SwordTattoo

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Krakauer all tryin' to be a scientist....

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Summary: In the article, we learn the mystery and science behind the death of Chris McCandless. As we know, Chris had died of starvation (p1) and was confirmed as the cause of death. However, along with his death, the potato seeds he had digested was a critical factor. Krakauer was so invested in what killed Chris, that he wanted to discover the toxicity (p5) that remains in the potato seeds. To continue his investigation, Krakauer decides to send samples of the seeds to a lab that will analyze them. When Krakauer receives the results, he finds out that the seeds actually contained a lethal (p7) compound called beta-ODAP. It gradually weakens those who are famine. With this discovery, Krakauer wanted to prove his theory to be as accurate as possible, so he decides to do another lab test. Although, Krakauer notices that the seeds contain a toxin (p9), but it isn't beta-ODAP. This time, the results show that the toxin was an amino acid called L-canavanine. Krakauer explains how the acid messes up your metabolism (p10) and leads your body's system to starvation. As most of us believe, Krakauer also believes that Chris McCandless would've survived (p20), if it weren't for those potato seed's toxins.

Analysis: I admire Krakauer for managing to stay determined and so interested in the mystery of Chris McCandless. However, I don't think I would be able to do that myself...20 years sounds way too long. I did find it really interesting to find out the two toxins that were found in the potato seeds. I thought it was interesting to learn how the compounds and acids broke down the body's system and ruin your metabolism. It's not fun to have, obviously, but it was interesting to learn about. Imagine how different Chris's future could've been if he had not eaten the seeds. The moral lesson is to be safe by knowing what you eat.

#EatingCautiously #SoManyToxins #LabDiscoveries

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Summary: In the epilogue, we learn that Walt and Billie decide to visit Chris's bus along with his remains. When Walt and Billie arrive, they inspect the bus and realize how much Chris must've loved (pg. 202) spending his time in the bus on his adventure. Walt himself even admits how much he dislikes Alaska, but can take appreciation to Alaska's beauty and understand how Chris was appealed (pg. 202) to it. Two hours later, Walt and Billie work together to create a delightful memorial (pg. 202) inside the bus for Chris and as an aide for those on their adventure that's similar to Chris's.  Reflecting on their visit to Chris's bus, Walt and Billie become very understanding (pg. 203) as to why Chris went on his adventure. They're glad to have visited his bus and felt comforted knowing that Chris was there. However, Billie explains how she's been told many times that people admire how Chris went on his own. Sadly, she would agree if he was still here with us, but Billie is still deeply hurt (pg. 203) by his loss. To perfectly end the chapter, we are given an imaginary picture of the bus getting smaller as the helicopter flies out of range.

Analysis: This chapter was a nice way to end the book. We gain an insight of Walt and Billie's reaction when they decide to visit the bus sighting. They feel bittersweet emotions knowing that Chris was there when he was alive. They feel happy knowing that Chris must've enjoyed and loved the wilderness of Alaska. However, they did feel sad because he didn't live to tell the tale. I admire the idea of Walt and Billie creating a memorial for him, it was very sweet. I do love the ending imagining the sight of the bus getting smaller and smaller as the helicopter flies away with Walt and Billie. It was a very warm-hearted ending that somewhat resembles healing and moving on.

#Goodbyes #Memorial #Anew

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Summary: In the final chapter, we learn the sad details about Chris McCandless's death. As Chris reaches the end of his journey, he notes to himself that "happiness (pg. 189) only real when shared." This note stood out to me because I believe that Chris learns a morally good life lesson from his adventure. However, a tragedy occurs and we learned the major factor as to how he passed away. Chris had been poisoned (pg. 190) by a potato seed. Normally, most of us would've gotten sick at the most part. However, due to his extra loss of weight and being too lean (pg. 195), Chris wasn't able to flush out the toxins from his system. In addition, he describes that he is too weak (pg. 195) and his condition (pg. 195) is very poor. Krakauer explains the difficult stages of starvation (pg. 198) and describes what Chris had gone through. In the book, he explains how the body consumes itself, you suffer from muscle pain, heart disturbances, loss of hair, dizziness, shortness of breath, etc. There's so many different stages and bodily effects due to starvation, which makes me feel sorrow because Chris had experienced this too. To end the final chapter, we learn that Chris was happy to live the life with his desired choices, and goes into his forever sleep at peace (pg. 199).

Analysis: It was so sad to read how Chris had died, but I am glad that he was able to die at peace. However, I was immensely shocked at how he died. I was surprised that he had died from eating potato seeds. If he had just weighed more, I'm sure that he would still be with us now. In the end, I am happy that he was able to live the life he wanted and die happy.

#GottaKeepAnEyeOutForPotatoSeeds #DiedHappy #RIPMcCandless

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Summary: In Chapter 17, we read about the feedback and reflection of Chris McCandless's actions on his adventure. Many people believe that Chris was a very incompetent (pg. 177) man and wondered why he would do what he did. They believe that he was stupid because he was inexperienced in being a hunter and didn't acquire the skills necessary. However, some people had different opinions and found it hard to believe that people would despise (pg. 180) him. Even though he didn’t have crucial (pg. 182) skills, people shouldn’t be harsh and hate the guy. Chris just wanted to live his dream and people shouldn’t be giving him rude backlash, but everyone has their own opinions. However, I do wish that he did bring main necessities like the map! He probably would’ve had a stronger survival chance and a greater idea about his surroundings, which proves the map being extremely important. We also readdress one of Chris’s main purpose was as to why he went on his adventure. His purpose was to discover the world of his inner soul (pg. 183) and as we know he did go live his dream. One of the people who stood out to me and didn’t totally despise Chris, was Roman. Roman was able to make a more heartwarming observation (pg. 185), unlike others. He’s aware of Chris’s mistakes and is still completely understanding. For example, Roman admired Chris for staying commited to living his dream compared to others. He was proud and defends Chris’s name by explaining how Chris was able to do something with his life that’s difficult, compared to those who wouldn’t dare to try.

Analysis: I admire that Roman did stick up for Chris’s name and who he was as a person. He gave Chris the credibility he deserves for going on a difficult, new adventure in his life. It was also interesting to hear other people’s opinions on what they thought about Chris. I find this interesting because you can read people explain both the good and the bad about him. Still though, Chris should’ve brought a map!!

#BestOfBothWorlds #MapIsCrucialToSurvival #OpinionsLeftAndRight

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Summary:  In Chapter 16, we are shown how Chris's wild adventure had gone, the adversities he faced, and his decision. On Chris's adventure, he brings along his journal. In his journal, he writes about how he will no longer be poisoned (pg. 163) by civilization, which I find to be an interesting way to describe how he felt. The moment he step foot towards his dream adventure, Chris had become cut (pg. 165) off from the world, spending his time alone. In his journal, he explains his hunting experience and was able to have great luck with hunting. Chris was very proud (pg. 166) of himself and knows that hunting is unavoidable (pg. 166) because it's a key component to surviving in the wild. However, one of the biggest adversities Chris faced on this journey was the moose. Chris felt guilty and had deep remorse (pg. 166) for killing the moose. Adding to that, he felt worse because he couldn't figure out how to preserve (pg. 167) the many pounds of meat that came off the moose, meaning it got spoiled and went to waste. Chris believes that this was one of the biggest tragedies (pg. 167) he has ever dealt with because he had wasted a living being's life. After a certain time, Chris did imply that he would return (pg. 168) to society and bring his dream adventure to a happy ending. I think something that influenced Chris to return was a marked passage he had read that moved (pg. 169) him.

Analysis: In this chapter, it was so sad to hear about the moose's death. What made it even worse was hearing that the moose's body went to waste due to Chris not being able to preserve the meat. However, I did admire the fact that Chris did want to return to society instead of living off on his own for who knows how long. It makes me wish even more that he could be able to live to tell the tale.

#RIPMoose #NextStopCivilization #WaterIsSpooky

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Uh oh...what will Jon Krakauer do now?!?!?!?!?!

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Summary: In Chapter 15, we learn that Krakauer decides to take another shot at the Devil's Thumb instead of returning (pg. 146) to the Boulder and the relationship he has with his father. During his adventure to the Devil's Thumb, he felt the storm wouldn't go away anytime soon. With this in mind, he sets up his cigar and smoked (pg. 146) his time away. However, this led to a huge problem. Krakauer notices a crackle and realizes that his dad's expensive tent had been set on fire. When he tries to put out the fire, he realizes that the fire had vaporized (pg. 147) his tent and left a giant hole in the tent wall. Due to this tragedy, he starts to believe that he is living up to his dad's worst expectations (pg. 147). This idea led to Krakauer explaining how his dad had a competitive (pg. 147) mindset for his kid's ideal life. His dad wanted Krakauer to be a top notch student, get into Harvard Medical School, and ace everything in his life. However, Krakauer doesn't want to live that type of life and became a carpenter, climbing bum. Krakauer and his dad's relationship had widened (pg. 148). In addition to this, Krakauer couldn't find the will to forgive (pg. 148) his dad because Krakauer had found out that his dad who asked for nothing but perfection, wasn't perfect himself. At a point, Krakauer reaches a dark mindset and starts to think about his own death (pg. 151). He starts to realize how this was the first time he has felt so alone (pg. 152). This may have been a dark time for Krakauer, but he managed to push through these adversities and reach the top (pg. 153) of Devil's Thumb. Krakauer realizes that this adventure did nothing to his life, however, he was able to take appreciation (pg. 155) from this. In the end, he was also able to make the connection that him and Chris McCandless was very similar (pg. 155) in problems and dreams.

Analysis: I admire Krakauer's determination for when he still tried to climb Devil's Thumb for the third time. However, that's not the bigger picture in this chapter, in my opinion. As I read this chapter, I was able to realize how Chris and Krakauer were very similar. They both had a reason as to why they wanted to escape to Alaska, they both had relationship issues with their family, and they both wanted to accomplish their dream adventure alone. It's crazy how similar they were...I bet they would've been good friends.

#ThreeTimesTheCharm #LivedToTellTheTale #LowkeyTwins

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Who would've thought you could climb a thumb???

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Summary: In Chapter 14, the author himself explains his adventure in Alaska climbing the Devil's Thumb. Like Chris McCandless, Krakauer had a passion that mattered (pg. 134) and decided to do it alone (pg. 135). Something about climbing and going off to adventure is a common dream amongst these men. Krakauer believes that the climb for the Devil's thumb will be able to transform (pg. 135) his life into something amazing and triumphant. Another similarity he shares with McCandless is how he quit his job quickly. Krakauer leaves his job immediately and believes the several amounts of possibility (pg. 136) that he can now achieve. On his adventure in Alaska, he deals with a terrifying adversity. The depths of the snow cover several crevasses (pg. 138), which could lead to a mysterious death. An additional factor that applies to danger is Krakauer's poor (pg. 139) defense mechanisms, aka the curtain rods. At a point, Krakauer starts to think of how death (pg. 139) is just around the corner. He starts to imagine his remains lying at the bottom of the crevasses. Krakauer began to become anxious from his lack of communication with the outside world and tries to scream for avail (pg. 141). Due to the airplanes not being able to notice him, he becomes mortified and cries and screams. Krakauer felt abandoned and lost (pg. 141).

Analysis: I find it interesting how the author wrote this book about Chris McCandless and can relate to him in a way. In this chapter, we can see how they relate from their dreams and near-death adversities they have faced. Reading Krakauer's point of view also gives me an idea of what these other men may have felt. I can easily get an idea of how mortified Krakauer must've felt when he felt hopeless for help. I think this feeling could relate to Chris in a way, which is crazy because Krakauer lived to tell the tale.

#AlaskaAdventures #NearDeath #DreamJourney

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No one's got your back quite like your dog and your sister!

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Summary: In Chapter 13,  we are given Carine's perspective of how close she was to Chris and how she found out about his death. She could see the expression (pg. 128) on his face was identical to a picture that had been taken 10 years apart. Carine also mentions a bond that Chris had loved. She shares the cute and charming story about their dog Buck. When Chris had disappeared, Carine was certain that Chris wanted to take Buck with him. However, Chris couldn't take Buck with him because of Buck needing to recover from a car accident. Carine explains that she wonders how different things could've been if Chris had taken Buck with him.  She believes that Chris would never put Buck in danger, but wouldn't think about risking (pg. 128) his own life. Carine also shares how when Chris wrote to her, he tells her that she's the only person who could understand (pg. 129) him. Even after months fly by, Carine still mourns over the death of her brother. She says that she can't get through a day without crying (pg. 129) and breaking down while thinking about Chris. The day Carine learned about the death of Chris, was the day she went hysterical (pg. 130). Hearing the news put her through denial. She couldn't believe what she had heard and started to scream, cry, shriek, wail, and curl up into a fetal position. After 5 hours, she was able to calm herself down and went with Fish to go to Walt and Billie's place. The next day, Carine and Sam went to get Chris's remains, which is strange that Walt and Billie didn't come along. A sad tale that Carine mentions was how she ate every bit of food (pg. 131) served to her on her flight home. The reason as to why she did this was because she couldn't bear to throw away the food because of Chris starving to death.

Analysis: This chapter was sad to read. The pain that Carine goes through when she found out about Chris was just heartbreaking. I have a brother too and it made me think of him. The unbelievable amount of pain I would go through, if he were gone. It also made me sad because of how Chris said she was the only person who could understand him. I was able to perceive how close their relationship was. It was also sad to read how even after 10 months of Chris passing away, Carine still cries and breaks down over him. I just really admire how close they were.

#BestieBuck #Mourning #BrotherandSister

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Summary: In Chapter 12, we learn about the drama and hidden secrets of the McCandless family. We are first told about the heart-warming speech (pg. 118) told by Carine. She explains how emotional Chris had gotten and almost cried. Chris talks about how he was grateful for everything his dad had done for him and how his dad had worked hard so hard starting from nothing to raising many kids. However, this beautiful sight isn't as nice as it seems. Billie reveals that Chris thought Billie and Walt were idiots (pg. 119) for being worried about him. However, his anger (pg. 121) is justified by the truth being unveiled from his discoveries. The reason as to why Chris is infuriated with his parents is because he found out his father had been living a double (pg. 121) life. This means that his father had two families, Billie being the side chick. Walt had been continuing living this double life with his first wife Marcia and his other kids. Even though this had bothered Chris, he would keep (pg. 122) this feeling to himself and let the bad feelings build up. Sadly, he ended up feeling like his childhood was fiction (pg. 123), due to the fact from this outrageous secret. To end the chapter, it was a heartbreaking thing to hear from a mother. Billie claims to have heard Chris's voice begging (pg. 126) for help.

Analysis: I cannot believe that Walt was a player! What he did was unbelievable selfish towards his family. I believe Chris’s feelings are justified because imagine being in his shoes. I’d feel betrayed findng out my dad had been hiding a huge secret like this from me. I could never imagine how shocked Chris must’ve been to find out about Walt’s double life with six other siblings and a whole wife. However, I did feel bad because of how concerned Walt and Billie became over Chris. Chris did leave without saying a word, but Walt did hide his entire double life. I feel sorrow for both sides in a way.

#EXPOSED #DoubleLife #InShock

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You can pick your friends, but you can't pick your family...

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Summary: In Chapter 11, we learn more about how Chris McCandless was as a person and parts about his family. After hearing the tragic news about Chris, Walt, Chris's dad, explains how "the hardest (pg. 104) part" was that Chris can't be around anymore. In addition, he also implies that he was closer to Chris compared to his other kids. From the book, we also learn that when Chris left his family and friends, Walt had changed. Walt was affected by Chris's disappearance because it caused him to be scared (pg. 105).  Carine, Chris's sister, explained how Chris was easily able to make friends, but would stay more reserved and keep to himself. However, she also mentions that even if he was alone (pg. 107), he wouldn't feel lonely because he could "entertain himself for hours." We also gain an insight learning one of the reasons why Carine considered her and Chris close. This is because we learn that Walt and Billie, Chris's mom, wouldn't get along. Therefore, Chris and Carine would be there for each other during those times. In addition to Chris and Carine's relationship, she talks about how Chris was an extremely protective (pg. 110) brother because he would hold her hand while they cross streets. As he is the older, protective brother, he is also a great student with lots of talent (pg. 111). Chris was very smart and very athletic, but was stubborn and did not like to listen to those who would try and give advice/discipline. His peers tended to believe that Chris would push himself too hard. This is because Chris would become extremely disappointed (pg. 112) in himself if he couldn't achieve the goal he expected to accomplish. Adding to Chris being a good student, he was a good person in general. The inequities (pg. 113) that exist in our society is something he would take personally. Chris would be serious on attempting to make changes towards racial oppression. From this chapter, we learn about Chris's personality that was full of complexity (pg. 115).

Analysis: I admire the fact that Chris is extremely determined when it comes to his goals. For example, he was determined to change inequities among our society. I also admire the fact that he was a sweet, older brother towards Carine. It was super sweet that him and Carine would have each others back during the hardships of when their parents would fight. It was also super sweet to read that he would be protective over her. The fact that Chris even bought a big bag of hamburgers to give to the homeless was genuinely really nice. Overall I think he's a good guy, despite him being stubborn when it comes to taking advice from others.

#SiblingLove #IGotMyself #CaringandAltruistic

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Summary: In Chapter 10, we learn about how the police and detectives discover the identity of the hiker's corpse. Westerberg was told by his friend, Bob, to listen in to the radio. Westerberg hears how the radio talks about a kid who starved to death in Alaska. As Westerberg is listening to this sketchy (pg. 100) story, he starts to believe the anonymous (pg. 100) hiker sounds like Chris. Westerberg even explains how the story of the hiker in Alaska stretched across the country. From this, cops found it hard to believe Westerberg's perspective due to the one hundred and fifty (pg. 100) calls they received from strangers claiming to know Chris. Since the story spread, Sam, Chris's brother, learned about the sad tragedy (pg. 101) and felt bad for whoever's family the hiker belonged to. Sadly, Sam didn't realize that this hiker was his own brother. The hardest part for Sam was figuring out how to break it to their parents that their child is dead (pg. 102)

Analysis: In this chapter, I find it interesting how complex it is to discover bodies back then. It's crazy how much work it takes, props to the past detectives. I admire how along Chris's journey, he was able to make an impact on people. The way people described him to the cops saying they knew him as a brother. That's really sweet and makes me wonder how friendly this guy was. It is sad that Sam discovered his brother's death from the news. The more heart-breaking part is that he has to break the news to the parents.

#oldfashioned #hikerinalaska #brother

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NEMO disappears...and I don't mean the fish!

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Summary: In Chapter 9, we are introduced to a character, Everett Ruess AKA NEMO, who is similar to Chris McCandless. Like Chris McCandless, he mysteriously disappeared (pg. 89). Ruess decided to go live his dream adventure for months, heck even years (pg. 90). From his "resistless fascination" for the wilderness, he thinks of himself as the lone (pg. 91) wanderer of the wilderness. Ruess would rather live (pg. 91) intensely on his own, never stop wandering, and die a lonely death to prevent sacrificing his freedom (pg. 92). He also decided to change his name (pg. 93) from time to time. As you can see, these are the many similarities both Everett Ruess and Chris McCandless share. However, a difference between the two was that there was a theory about Ruess. There was a theory that Ruess was murdered (pg. 95) After the chapter, I do agree strongly that Ruess and McCandless are great because they tried (pg. 96) to follow their dreams, unlike most people.

Analysis: I understand as to why the author decided to include this chapter as well. It's somewhat similar to the last chapter, but it does explain a man, Everett Ruess, who shares close similarities to Chris McCandless. The point of this chapter was to illustrate that Ruess wanted to follow his dreams as well as Chris did. Like Chris, Ruess wanted to live his dream of being a lone wanderer of the wilderness. I do admire this fact because not many people are able to follow their dreams, but the both of them managed to follow their dreams.

#NEMO #SameDream #Twins

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Rosellini, Waterman, McCunn and McCandless: Modern Day Tragic Heros!

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Summary: In Chapter 8, the author tells  many stories of men who tried to go on their own adventure like Chris. However, their stories are very intense and bizarre. For example, Gene Rosellini was the perfect (pg. 73) student who would endure lots of pain. Gene would compulsively exercise if he wasn't foraging for supplies, meaning he would put tons of strain on himself. However, this ideal boy wound up discovered with a knife in his heart and his death (pg. 75) ended up on the front page of the Anchorage Daily News. Next, we are introduced to Carl McCunn, who's a photographer. Carl also decided to go on an adventure to take pictures of the wildlife, but failed to get a flight back home. Since he didn't arrange a meeting for a pilot to fly him back, it cost (pg. 81) his life. Like Chris, Carl had a dream (pg. 83) to go off on his own adventure. Carl wanted to go off on his own and live in the woods and Chris wanted to go to Alaska. However, the major difference is that Carl wanted to live in the woods with a woman, while Chris wanted to be on his own and neglected anyone who tried to get close to him. Sadly, Carl was suffering a painfully slow and agonizing (pg. 84) starvation. The cold was also a factor that made his suffering worse to the point where he took his own life and apologized to God for his sins and pulled the trigger on himself. Eventually, 2 months later his corpse (pg. 84) was discovered. From this chapter, I realize that Chris isn't the only one who's crazy enough to go off into the wilderness on his own to follow his dreams and go on his adventure.

Analysis: It makes sense as to why the author did include this chapter in the book. It relates to the story because he explains many other men who went off on their own adventure like Chris did. In addition, the stories the author tells, also discusses how the men wounded up dead like Chris. I find it crazy that all these men were beaten by their adventure, but I do admire that they did follow their dreams and attempt to conquer their adventure.

#AlaskaAlwaysWins #SoMuchDeath #CostMyLife

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Alex McCandless: hard worker, life of the party, and predictor of his own destiny???

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Summary: In Chapter 7, we discover more about Chris and his family's relationship. In his rant to Carine, he went on and on saying "I'm going to divorce them as my parents once and for all and never (pg. 64) speak to either of those idiots again as long as I live." I was baffled and in shock reading that and it makes me so curious how their relationship ended the way it did. In addition to relationships, we learn more about how Chris was with girls and/or guys. Turns out that Chris was celibrate (pg. 65) and as the reader, we can make an inference that he was closed off and only in love with his adventure to Alaska. In addition to my inference, we all know that Chris was fixed (pg. 66) on never giving up his journey for anything in the world and did not let anyone come too close to interfere with his plan. Chris was offered plane tickets from Westerberg and Chris declined him saying, "Flying would be cheating (pg. 67)." From this, we can tell how dedicated Chris's relationship to completing his journey, is very honest and pure. We are also introduced to Chris's relationship with Westerberg's mom. At first she didn't want to meet him, but when she did meet him, she was so fascinated by him. She loved talking to Chris to the point when she learned that he died, she was so bothered (pg. 67) by his death. In addition, Borah remembers something significant. She remembers that when Chris and her were hugging goodbye, he started crying (pg. 68), which seemed off to her. She became frightened and developed a bad feeling (pg. 68) that they would never see him again. Towards the end of the chapter, we start to wonder if Chris planned on never coming back from the amount of times he mentions if something fatal were to happen to him.

Analysis: I admire Chris for all of the many relationships he made with new people. This is because the way he has positively impacted people's lives and the people around him have always spoken so well about him. It really makes me think he was such a friendly, down to earth guy. I'd want to be his friend because of how easily he can get along with people. However, I do question if he did plan on just never coming back because he always mentioned what if something fatal was to happen to him.

#ChrisIsAVirgin4Life #Relationships #Alaska4Ever

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Summary: In Chapter 6, we are introduced to "Ronald Franz," which isn't actually his name, but has requested a fake name to keep his identity private. We learn about Ron's sad tale involving his family being killed (pg. 50) by a drunk driver in an accident. Due to the accident, Franz started to drink tons and tons of whiskey. However, he did manage to stop, but could not get over the loss. Along Chris's journey, him and Ron manage to cross paths and meet each other. Ron and Chris spent lots of time hanging together (pg. 51) and Ron even taught Chris how to make a leather belt (pg. 51). Chris created a skull and crossbones with his real initials on his belt to represent his old self dying. As Chris and Ron spent their time together, Ron began to become deeply fond (pg. 52) towards Chris. Since Ron became deeply fond towards Chris, Ron had a hard time dropping Chris off, to continue his adventure, and stated, "I was sad (pg. 53) to be leaving him." The following week, Ron received a phone call from Chris and explained, "When I heard his voice, it was like sunshine (pg. 54) after a month of rain," which displays how fond Ron is of Chris. Chris eventually came back and Ron offered to take Chris on a trip, which surprisingly Chris accepted (pg. 54) his offer. Ron was beyond happy (pg. 55) that Chris was alongside him and even bought a camera to record the sights. Ron was truly happy enough that he started talking about his past on how his family died. In addition to his story, he made a generous offer asking if he could adopt Chris and we know how Chris gets when someone gets to close (he runs away). Chris grew uncomfortable and sadly dodged (pg. 55) his question. However, Chris did have to break it to Ron that he would not accept his offer, so he did give Ron advice (pg. 58) to keep living his beautiful life. One day, Ron is approached by the author and is handed pictures of Chris and the bus. As Ron came to a realization of what he saw, his eyes begin to mist (pg. 59), pushes away the pictures, and becomes heart-broken. In addition, Ron tells his heart-breaking story. He explained how he prayed to God for "Alex"'s safety, but God let Ron down and Ron says God let "Alex" die. From this, he renounced the Lord, withdrew his church membership, and became an atheist (pg. 60). Ron couldn't handle the heart-breaking news, so he began to drink hoping it would kill (pg. 60) him.

Analysis: I admire Chris for forming an amazing bond with Ron. It's such a sweet story to read about how they Ron and Chris shared a grandfather to grandson type of bond. Even when it came down to Chris rejecting Ron's adoption offer, I admire Chris for declining his offer nicely and giving him advice to continue living his long life. However, it was deeply heart-breaking having to read. It was genuinely sad hearing how heart-broken Ron was after learning about Chris passing away. When reading that Ron prayed to God for Chris to be safe, it made me so sad.

#BeautifulBonds #Belt #Atheist

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Flippin' burgers and selling books...The "normal" life of Alexander Supertramp!

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Summary: In Chapter 5, we learn that Chris decides to stay and settle (pg. 39) and abandon his journey in Bullhead for more than 2 months. He decided to take on a job (pg. 39) at McDonalds and open a savings account at the bank to create like a new persona/existence (pg. 39). For his job, Chris actually decides to give his real (pg.40) name and social security. Chris was able to socialize with his coworkers who thought highly of him for being a hard worker and dependable. However, when his coworker did try to offer supplies to take a bath, he got upset and they would clash (pg. 41). Next thing you know, Chris is gone and on the move. No matter what, Chris would always try to keep a disguise (pg. 41) on his personal adventure. In addition to people trying to get close to Chris, Tracy (a girl who developed a crush on Chris) would be pushed away because Chris would never take her seriously (pg. 44). However, Burres, a girl Chris stayed attentive (pg. 45) towards, she tried to offer anything she could to him and Chris actually accepted (pg. 46) her offerings. From this chapter, I could make an understanding that anytime someone tried to get close to Chris or even ask about his family, Chris would immediately run away.

Analysis: I admire Chris for trying to socialize and even apply for a job at McDonalds. However, I did feel bad for people who tried to get to know him and even offer supplies to him. I felt bad because for example, Chris lashed out on someone trying to offer him soap. Although, I do understand why he would lash out because I would be questioning if I smell that bad. LOL! I was surprised that he did go for 2 months without human interaction. Crazy...

#McDonaldsJob #NoSoapForMe #Goodbyes

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Summary: In Chapter 4, we learn more about Chris's adventure and the many adversities he faced. His beloved car, the yellow datsun (pg. 26), has been abandoned (pg. 26) by Chris himself. He would rather sacrifice his beloved car instead of the wonders of living his adventure. Everything that we know about Chris's adventure was because he decided to document the things he did/accomplished. For example, Chris documented (pg. 29) him burning his money. On his adventure, Chris came close to facing death by suffering from a heat stroke (pg. 29). However, he managed to get a ride and avoid the heat. During his journey, Chris got a ticket (pg. 31) for hitchhiking and used his parent's address, which notified them of Chris's actions. From the ticket, Chris's parents grew frantic (pg. 31) and Walt (his dad) thought it was strange that Chris had left his Datsun behind by saying "The hitchhiking ticket just didn't make any sense. He loved that Datsun so much it was mind-boggling (pg. 32) to me he would ever abandon it and travel on foot." It's crazy to believe that Chris had not seen a single soul (pg. 36) in 36 days, while suffering from malnutrition (pg. 37).

Analysis: I admire Chris's admiration and perseverance to keep on going even after all the many adversities he faced. He encountered death several times and abandoned many of his treasures to keep his adventure going. He even sacrificed and left behind his beloved, yellow Datsun. Judging by all the crazy encounters and near death situations, I can make a great understanding that no matter what happened to Chris, he stayed determined and true to go forward on his adventure.

#DeadYellowDatsun #Malnutrition #36Days

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Summary: In Chapter 3, we learn more about Chris McCandless's background.  At the beginning of the chapter, we gain insight from the remains of Chris's book. It was a highlighted passage found in his book saying, "I wanted excitement and danger and the chance (pg. 15) to sacrifice myself for my love. As the reader, we develop an understanding that he was willing to do anything to live his own life to its fullest. We also learn from an old friend of Chris's, which is Westerberg, who goes into depth about Chris as a person. He explains how a lot of people were attached (pg. 16) to "Alex." showing that Chris did make new friends while ignoring his past. Westerberg even says that "Alex" was a very hard worker who sets high standards (pg. 18) for himself, unlike his old self. However, in his past, Chris gives his family a discreet message saying he would "disappear (pg. 21)" which his family took lightly. Regardless of his close relationship to his only biological sister, he still ghosted and left his family. After his family did not hear from Chris, they began to grow extremely worried (pg. 22). Leaving his family behind, Chris decided to start a new life (pg. 23) elsewhere and declare severance on his past.

Analysis: I admire Chris for turning his life over and starting anew. It was pretty cool that he was able to bond in a smaller city and make plenty of friends. However, it was saddening to hear that he did leave his family behind regardless of the relationships they shared. Besides that though, I did admire that he started a fresh, new life. It sounds fun to make new friends the way he did along his adventure.

#WhiteRussian #StartAnew #Friendship

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Summary: In Chapter 2, we discover the death of Chris McCandless. Ken Thompson, a construction worker, comes across "a guy and a girl...looking kinda spooked." Thompson decides to investigate the matters after learning that there was "a real bad smell (pg. 12) from inside" the bus. On the bus, Thompson was able to locate a disquieting (pg. 12) note taped to the door. Written by Chris, the note was actually an S.O.S. (pg. 12), writing for immediate help due to his injuries. When Thompson enters the bus, he notices a blue sleeping bag with something inside. He examines and shakes the bag, but realizes it doesn't weigh much. There Thompson uncovered, Chris McCandless's dead, decomposed (pg. 13) body. According to the autoposy, starvation (pg. 14) was the cause of his death, weighing 67lbs.

Analysis: While listening to the audio reading chapter 2, it was very saddening hearing how Chris McCandless passed. Imagining what he went through by himself sounds scary. Passing away alone in a bus due to hunger and injuries sounds beyond scary. He used his strength to have faith and hope someone would see his note, unfortunately it was too late. However, I do admire him using his final bits of strength to write the note and the courage to go through this journey alone.

#RIP #Bus #SOSNote

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Summary: In Chapter 1, we are introduced to two characters: Gallien, an experienced hunter and woodsman, and Alex (aka Chris), a guy who wants to explore the wilderness. Chris decides to share his story to Gallien, explaining how he wants to "live off the land for a few months. While Gallien and Chris deepen their conversation about Chris's adventure, Gallien starts to think Chris is congenial. (pg. 5) However, as Gallien listens to Chris sharing his story, Gallien grows concerned (pg. 5) for Chris throughout the chapter because of his lack of experience. From Gallien's concern, he tries to offer Chris as many things as he possibly could, based on him being worried (pg. 6) about Chris's safety. No matter what Gallien said, Chris was strongly determined (pg. 6) to explore the wilderness on his own adventure with no regrets. Since Gallien's concerns grew throughout the chapter, he nearly considered (pg. 7) notifying the authorities about Chris's adventure, but decided not to. From this chapter, we can understand that Chris is extremely determined to power through his adventure and is not turning back.

Analysis: I do admire Chris for being brave and bold for taking his life to the next level. By this, I mean that he's making bold choices to create a new adventure in his life. I think he displays a strong determination to take go on this adventure, which I do admire (his determination). However, the only thing I was against was him being stubborn. He was stubborn by not wanting to take the advice given by Gallien, who is an experienced hunter. Although, I understand as to why Chris is making these decisions, so him being stubborn is understandable.

#boldandbrave #newadventures #determination

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A picture of me and my little brother :)

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When I was younger, my mom liked to take me, my brother, and my dad on hikes to get some sunlight and exercise in during the day. I don't remember the exact place, but I do remember some things in our surroundings. After our hikes, we would ride on horses and go on a train ride around the park. I actually have an interesting and vivid memory while I went on a hike from this same place. I was hiking with my cousins and we were both walking together. All of a sudden, she yelled out "SNAKE!!" In a state of panic, I did not know what to do, so I bolted. I literally started sprinting and took a giant leap, regardless of the snake. I had no idea where the snake was and when she shouted, I didn't know what to do. Thankfully, I did not land on the snake after jumping. A couple of hikers were coming up the way and I alerted them that there were snakes on this trail. They remained calm because they just happened to know the difference between poisonous and non-poisonous snakes. They told me that triangle-headed snakes were poisonous, while others were not. From this adventure, I learned the difference between poisonous and non-poisonous snakes. Also, fun fact, this story gets brought up occasionally with the family.

As the years went on, my parents did split up. However, me and my brother would still go on walks around the block or on hikes with either my mom or dad. My mom, my brother, and I would go on walks and come across cute dogs and nice sunsets. That was something I really enjoyed on these walks. With my dad, my brother, my stepmom, and I, we would go on walks near their apartment. We would also come across cute dogs, but this time, we were surrounded by nature. On these short trips, we were able to see cute ducks and their families together in a pond. We would also come across squirrels in trees. Even though time has passed, I still go on walks from time to time.

I would still love to continue going on peaceful walks. Even though I am a lazy person, going on nice, peaceful walks is something I'm down to do. I tend to enjoy the beautiful sky and the many things around me. On these many walks, I have seen a variety of dogs and animals in their natural habitat. Taking the time for some fresh air and going out for a walk can also be super stress relieving and peaceful, which is why I enjoy some walks. To conclude, I do enjoy taking walks as they are able to put my mind at peace and I'm able to enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding me.