https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1 Made with wonder by Emy en-us 2021-12-07 15:29:19 UTC 2025-11-15 14:06:01 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/png/1f333.png enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1933848827 As a kid, I didn't really go outside. I was mainly at home. This doesn't mean that I never gone outside exploring nature. Sometimes, I would go the park with my family just to go on a picnic. I fed some animals too like ducks and pigeons. There are times where I would go on an open grass field and lay with my friends. Additionally, I enjoy looking at the sunset with the people I love. When I grow up, I want to travel and explore the world around me. I want to disconnect from everything and live my life peacefully. ]]> 2021-12-07 15:36:02 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1933848827 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1938496256 Summary: Christopher Johnson McCandless is determined (p.6) to live life on his own. In this chapter, Chris begins off an unnavigable (p.6) journey in Alaska. Even though it was a harsh, crude (p.6) adventure, his spirit was not broken (p.4). Unfortunately, he only carried a limited amount of supplies. He was dropped off at the head of the Stampede Trail by Jim Gallien. Gallien insisted that Christ should take a pair of his work boots and some extra food his wife has packed for his lunch. He is convinced that Christ or "Alex" will leave the park and return like a normal (p.7) person.

Analysis: After reading this chapter, I like Chrisopher McCandless. He decided to take the challenge and live life on his own. It would have been better for him if he carried a good amount of supplies. Overall, he seems like a courageous, adventurous, young man. 

#nature #intothewildchallenge #Alaska]]> 2021-12-09 15:27:02 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1938496256 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1938504659 Summary: In this chapter, it begins to describe the difficult, journey of a rolling bottomland (p.10) known as the Stampede Trail. The goal is to go down the Stampede Trail to get to the Fairbanks City Transit System Bus 142. On September 6, 1992, six Alaskans follow the trail (p.10) to find an SOS note and red signal flag inside the bus (p.10). Gordon Samel finds Christ dead in a sleeping bag. The next morning, the Alaska State Troopers visited to take his remains and possessions. The important possessions were the several rolls of the film including self-portraits (p.14) and a journal. Christ weighed only weighed 67 pounds at the time of death. The coroner concludes that he died of starvation (p.14).

Analysis: After reading this chapter,  it is sad to think about Christopher McCandless' final few days. I can't imagine how lonely and painful his final days must have been. Unfortunately, his dreams came to an end.

#restinpeace #stampedetrail #no1came2help]]> 2021-12-09 15:30:09 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1938504659 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1940522266 Summary: In this chapter, Jon Krakauer (the author) meets with Wayne Westerberg in a small town of Carthage, South Dakota with a population (p.15) of 274. Wayne remembered picking up a hitchhiker (p.17) who was Chris. Chris told Westerberg that his destination (p.17) was Saco Hot Springs. It was raining hard that day, so Westerbeg offered him his nearby trailer to buck in. McCandless stayed there for three days. A few weeks later, Chris showed up and worked at Westerberg's grain elevator. Wayne and Chris became great friends. Wayne remembered Chris as hardworking, intelligent, and popular amongst the townsfolk who become his surrogate family (p.18). Chris didn't have a great relationship with his parents. At his graduation ceremony (at Emory University), he planned to begin a new life as "Alexander Supertramp, master of his own destiny" (p.23).

Analysis: Just because you are well off doesn't mean you have no problems at all. I thought it was interesting to learn how Chris bonded with Wayne. After reading this chapter, I admire Chris because he took a different path in life. I find it ironic how he donated $24,000 to OXFAM, an organization dedicated to fighting hunger considering that he eventually would die of starvation.

#Wayne&Chris #CarthageCabaret #AlexanderSupertramp]]> 2021-12-10 15:06:01 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1940522266 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1946119088 Summary: In this chapter, Chris' journey becomes difficult. He drove his car (p.27), a yellow Datsun B210 and arrived in an area of Lake Mead called Detrital Wash. He ignored the posted warnings and got caught in a flash flood. The thunderstorm left the car flooded and unable to start. He decided to abandon his beloved car and felt exhilarated (p.29) as he resumed his journey on foot. He traveled from Lake Tahoe to Oregon. He works as a ranch hand for a rancher named Crazy Ernie. Chris didn't get paid at all. In this chapter, he made more than one mistake (p.27). Unfortunately, Chris got a hitchhiking ticket (p.31). His parents also hired a private investigator and they learned that Chris donated the remainder of his college funds to OXFAM. Later on, Chris bought a canoe (p.32) and nearly drowned himself. He attempted to sneak back into the United States, but was stopped by law enforcement (p.31). They confiscated his beloved handgun.

Analysis: I find it interesting how Chris reacts to these types of situations. He preserved and continued on with his journey, no matter what obstacles life threw at him. That is what I like/admire about him. What amazes me was how his spirit never died. Chris seems like a very cool guy.

#DatsunB210 #belovedhandgun #hitchhikingticket]]> 2021-12-14 03:59:33 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1946119088 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1947263524 Summary: In this chapter, Chris stayed in Bullhead City for two months, flipping burgers at McDonald's. His coworkers described him as a responsible, but rebellious worker (p.40). Chris would always show up, but worked slowly at the grill and resented wearing socks (p.40). He grew tired of life In Bullhead City. He decided to see Jan Burress in the desert town of Slab City, an enclave of drifters and itinerant (p.43) travelers. Chris helped Jan sell books at Slab's flea market by recommending books and stories by his favorite author, Jack London. Everyone there remembered him as a friendly (p.44) person who captured the hearts of people with his singing and piano skills. Jan attempted to act like a mother (p.46) by asking about his parents and giving him supplies to help his journey. Chris refused at first, but she finally persuaded him to accept some knives and long underwear for Alaska.

Analysis: After reading the chapter, it's so interesting to see the more human side of Chris. I was able to see some of his best and worst qualities. Chris' refusal of Jan's money and supplies shows that he places his pride over his well-being and comfort. Additionally, Chris' attitude and mood changes are similar to his movements from one city/town to the next. He is changing himself to adapt to every environment. 

#confrontation #anticapitalism #nosocksatMcDs]]> 2021-12-14 15:14:59 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1947263524 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1948594454 Summary: In this chapter, it talked about how Alexander Supertramp and Ron Franz interacted with each other. While Alex was hitchhiking into town for food and water, he met Ron Franz, a retired veteran. Ron Franz lost his wife and son on New's Year's Eve when a drunk driver killed them in a car accident. Alex and Ron became close, so they spent the next few weeks together. Ron told Alex that he wanted to adopt (p.50) him. Alex evaded this request and told Ron that they will discuss it when he returns from Alaska. From his next stop (South Dakota), Alex have written Ron a long letter in which he suggested that Ron "should lose his inclination for monotonous security and adopt a helter-skelter (p.57) style of life...move around, be nomadic (pg.57), make each day a new horizon." Remarkably, Ron heeded the advice and moved into a van in the desert. He wanted for Alex to return. Eventually, a hitchhiker told Ron that Alex was dead. Ron denounces God for letting his special (p.60) friend die. He withdrew his church membership and resumed drinking. 

Analysis: After reading the chapter, I was able to see the astonishing ability of Chris to win friends and influence people. Not only did he befriend Ron who is really old, but he convinced him to change his ways at a time in life when most people have settled down for good. Overall, this chapter was really heartbreaking. Once Chris died, Ron decided to give up on life. 

#missyouChris #fatherandson #heartbreaking ]]> 2021-12-15 04:08:25 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1948594454 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1952101019 Summary: In this chapter, Chris arrived at Westerberg's grain elevator in Carthage, ready to work. He planned to raise enough money and supplies for his departure to Alaska. Westerberg commented on Chris' absentminded behavior. According to him, he described Alex as a person who lacked common sense (p.62). Alex failed to notice chicken grease in the microwave. Additionally, Alex wanted to divorce (pg.64) his parents and never speak to them again. Alex embraced (p.66) his connection to nature and his travels than his female relationships. The reason for that was because he didn't like the idea of entanglements (p.65) of close relationships. He died a virgin. Upon leaving, Alex has given Wayne his journal and other belongings. From Alaska, Alex sent postcards to Wayne, Jan Burres, and Bob, bidding them a final farewell walking into the wild. He wrote to Wayne, "If this adventure proves fatal (pg.85) and you will ever hear from me again, I want you to know that you are a great man." While to Jan, he wrote, "This is the last communication you shall receive from me...take care, it was great knowing you."

Analysis: After reading the chapter, I learned that while Chris is extremely intelligent, he is more book-smart than street-smart. His lack of common sense and forgetfulness is an indicator that Chris may not be fully prepared for Alaska. I was able to learn more of Chris' disconnection from his parents. Additionally, his relationships with Wayne, Jan Burres, and his musical talent revealed that he has the ability to make connections and to function in a society.

#finalfarewells #diedavirgin #divorcetheparents]]> 2021-12-16 15:51:33 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1952101019 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1954468728 Summary: In this chapter, the author received many letters suggesting that the young man had been mentally ill. Some questioned his judgment, "Entering the wilderness purposefully ill-prepared, and surviving a near-death experience does not make you a better human, it makes you damn lucky (p.71)." The author showed his readers that other men have come to their demise (p.70) on Alaskan adventures. It started off with Gene Rossellini who was a caveman. He was a wealthy and intelligent man who earned several degrees. He attempted to devote his life to this experiment, but it didn't work out. He accepted the failure (p.75) and decided to end his life. The second man was John Waterman who was quite similar to Chris. He was a great climber and alpinist (p.79) before he started to go crazy. He decided to climb the most difficult mountain Alaska, but it didn't go so well. Alaska state troopers believed that he fell down a crevasse (p.80) to his death. The third man was Carl McCunn who was a good, fun guy to be around. Very similar to Chris, he planned to go into the wild, but his plan failed. Carl dies a slow and painful death. In his final diary (p.81) entry, he explained that he shot himself in the head to end his suffering.

Analysis: After reading this chapter, I was able to see multiple perspectives that are similar to Chris' situation. It was very interesting to see the similarities between these men. It just seemed like Gene Rosellini wanted to prove he could do anything he set his mind to. Additionally, John Waterman suffered from obsessive tendencies that led him to have issues and his death. Carl McCunn loved nature but was absentminded to secure his own safety. All of them wanted to go to Alaska to prove themselves. 

#issues #Alaskaadventures #lifeproblems]]> 2021-12-18 02:27:51 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1954468728 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1973441286 Summary: In this chapter, the author includes Everett Ruess who was a wanderer (p.90) and a risk-taker. Everett and Chris McCandless shared several similarities. Everett had always been unsatisfied (p.87) with his life. He wanted to live more intensely and richly. Everett dropped out of UCLA to follow his dream (p.96) of living in the wild. During his vagabond (p.91) journey, Ruess decided to change his name to "Nemo." While on a solo expedition in Utah, he disappeared. It was said that Everett was a victim of his own reckless innocence (p.97). Some believed that he fell to his death while climbing the region's canyon walls. Others believed that he drowned while trying to swim across a river. His death is still a mystery because no human remains were ever recovered. The last piece of Everett was found along the Colorado River, where he inscribed "NEMO 1934."

Analysis: It was interesting to learn the theories about Everett's death because it was similar to the mystery surrounding Chris McMcandless' death. This is the second consecutive chapter in which the author attempted to illuminate McMcandless' character by comparing and contrasting to others. Everett dropping out of UCLA just to follow his dream of living in the wild seemed crazy to me. It would be a dream for me to go to UCLA. At least Everett's dream came true even though we don't know what happened to him.

#Nemo1934 #nowheretobefound #ucladropout]]> 2022-01-04 03:52:42 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1973441286 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1974365121 Summary: In this chapter, the Alaska State Troopers had been figuring out who the dead body was. The Alaska State Troopers reached out to the Anchorage Daily News to publish a newspaper article (p.99). Jim Gallien saw their headline, so he told the troopers about Alex from South Dakota. The Alaska State Troopers moved their search (p.99) to South Dakota. The search was unsuccessful until the story was told on the Paul Harvey radio program. Wayne Westerberg heard the broadcast, so he called the troopers. At first, the troopers did not take him seriously. Wayne Westerberg offered Alex's real name and social security number (p.101) from work documents. This clue had led authorities to Sam McCandless who was in Virginia. The troopers faxed over a photograph (p.101) of Chris. Sam confirmed Chris' identity. Sam hopped in his car to drive to Maryland not knowing how to tell Walt and Billie that their son is dead (pg.102).

Analysis: After reading the chapter, I thought it was impressive that people like Wayne and Jim were able to identity Chris. It was more difficult to discover a person's identity back in the day. The Alaska State Troopers had a difficult time figuring everything out because they were swamped with calls. The callers claimed to be the dead hiker's friend or family. Now, it's easier to identify a body because of technological advancements (DNA, fingerprints, Internet).

#AssociatedPress #AlaskaStateTroopers #radioprogram]]> 2022-01-04 14:54:26 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1974365121 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1977764072 Summary: In this chapter, the author interviewed Walt McCandless at home after his son's body was recovered. Walt wondered how a kid with so much compassion could cause his parents so much pain (p.104). Chris and his father did not get along because they're so similar. Both of them have a disdain for authority (p.104). Walt and Billie were both workaholics which greatly affected Chris. Chris and Carine formed a strong bond. They both protected each from from verbal and physical abuse by their parents. Chris and Carine were gifted (p.106) in many areas like academics, music, and athletics. Chris grew up working and making money. According to his beliefs, money wasn't a symbol of success through capitalism (p.115). He used part of the money that he earned to buy the yellow Datsun B210. Chris decided to take off on his first summer adventure (p.116) after graduating from high school.

Analysis: After reading the chapter, there are questions that still need to be answered. Some readers may believe that the parents are responsible for their son's death. Walt and Billie didn't have "time" for their children. They were too busy working to earn money for the family. Unfortunately, money does not buy happiness or love. It is quite sad how parents' actions or home life can negatively influence kids. I wished that Chris and Carine kept in touch with each other.

#siblingbffs #giftedkids #familyproblems]]> 2022-01-06 02:27:43 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1977764072 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1979931462 Summary: In this chapter, it continued the exploration of Chris' character and how it was formed during his youth. Chris avoided his family all summer and makes it back in time to head to college. Chris was overconfident (p.118) because he knew he was good at everything. It turned out that Chris got lost in the Mojave Desert and had almost died of dehydration. In college, Chris freaked people out like keeping a machete in his dorm room. He suffered from monomania (p.120) which caused him to focus solely one thing without the ability to move on from it. During his post-high school trip, Chris went to visit his old neighborhood where he learned Walt's dark deception (p.121). He learned that Walt had two families, two houses, and two wives in California. Instead of confronting Walt, he decided to keep his feelings bottled (p.122). Ever since he learned about the dark secret, his personality (p.120) changed. He had gone to more summer road trips to avoid his parents and created his independence (p.125). Eventually, he cuts ties with his family in his remaining years of college. Walt and Billie failed to understand why Chris was angry.

Analysis: After reading the chapter, I hope Walt realize his wrongdoings. I don't think he will because he knew exactly what he was doing. He shouldn't be doing that in the first place. Not only is Walt hurting both women, he is also hurting his children. It's so questionable how you could impregnate two women at the same time. It's just unbelievable! I think Chris' actions are justified. Walt is a terrible person!

#Waltsdoublelife #Waltsdarkdeception #2families]]> 2022-01-07 03:37:24 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1979931462 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1981431994 Summary: In this chapter, the author interviewed Carine McCandless. Ten months after her brother's death (p.129), Carine can't get through a day without crying about her brother. Chris and Carine shared a lot of similarities (p.128). People often thought the two were twins (p.128). Additionally, the two were very close (p.129). Sadly, Chris never contacted her during his trip. The moment when her husband told her about Chris' death, she was shocked. Also, Carine discussed their love for Buckley who was the family dog (p.128) that Chris wanted to take with him on the trip. She believed that Chris' death could have been prevented if he had just taken Buck with him.  In a final act of love for her brother, Carine and Sam both went to Alaska to pick up his ashes and possessions.

Analysis: After reading this chapter, I thought this chapter was very touching. Carine's love for her brother is unconditional. The love he lacked from his parents came through his relationship with Carine. This chapter also continued with the question of "what if." For example, Carine believed that Chris could have survived if he brought Buckley with him. Also, I noticed the way Chris' family was dealing with grief. Both Carine and Billie's appetites had vanished. They both lost roughly ten pounds. However, Walt was eating compulsively and he gained eight pounds. Compulsive eating and loss of appetite are common responses to stress and grief.

#siblings4ever #bigloss #Buckleythedog]]> 2022-01-08 04:36:52 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1981431994 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1984267363 Summary: In this chapter, the author shared his own experiences of the Alaska adventure. The majority of this chapter is devoted to Krakauer's reminiscences about his youthful obsession (p.134) with mountain climbing. When he was 23, Krakauer decided to climb The Devil's Thumb which was on Alaska's Stikine Ice Cap. The Devil's Thumb was a very steep, challenging ascent on the glacier (p.138). Krakauer was very similar to Chris. Krakauer had one goal which was to climb this mountain. He continued to cross over delicate crevasses (p.140) despite the snowstorms and other dangers. One day, he decided that he must summon the courage and concentration (p.142) he needs to summit this peak. Sadly, his adventure was over when he started to panic (p.143). He saw the summit, but he was unable to reach it.

Analysis: After reading the chapter, I think I know the reason why the author decided to share his own experiences in the book. Many people, including our author, have followed their dreams despite the risk involved. His personality was also similar to Chris. The author described his younger self as self-absorbed and willful. What separated Krakauer from Chris and other younger adventurers mentioned in this book was that he survived.

#followyourdreams #highclimb #mountainadventures]]> 2022-01-10 16:44:51 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1984267363 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1986345706 Summary: In this chapter, Krakauer continued to tell his life story. Unfortunately, he went back to his tent after he was able to reach the summit of the Devil's Thumb. He decided to smoke a joint to make himself better. In doing so, he almost burnt down the tent, which has been borrowed from his father. The tent caused him to think about his reason for running away to climb which was his volatile (p.147) history with his father. He reminisced about his autocratic (p.147) but generous and loving father. His relationship with his father was indeed complicated (p.147). Lewis Krakauer wanted his son to become a doctor ever since he was a toddler. Anyway, he used family problems/memories as a great way to motivate himself. The author reattempted to summit the Thumb to prove his dad wrong. He decided to climb the Devil's Thumb via another route. After overcoming all of the terrifying (p.150) obstacles, he finally made it to the top. He enjoyed the view and took some pictures to prove that he made it to the top. He told some people what he did, but they didn't seem to believe him. He realized that he was able to live to tell his tale (p.155) or story. Lastly, the author believed that Chris' death was by accident.

Analysis: After reading the chapter, I was able to conclude that sons often rebel against their fathers. At the same, they are powerless to resist the traits that they have inherited. The author believed that Chris was driven to do what he did. If Chris was still alive, he would have looked back years ago and realize why he abandoned everything just to live in the wild by himself. Chris would have regretted not bringing enough materials or just being prepared in general. 

#dreamscometrue #smokeajoint #sonandfatherproblems]]> 2022-01-11 15:46:42 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1986345706 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1988534013 Summary: In this chapter, the author jumped back to the tale of Chris' odyssey (p.157) in the great North.  In mid-April 1992, Chris left Carthage, South Dakota. The first few pages described his journey to meeting up with Jim Gallien 13 days later outside of Fairbanks. Chris hitchhiked his way through Canada before meeting up Gaylord Stuckey. They both became friends. They talked about Chris' family, Walt's bigamy, and his plan to live off the land. On April 25th, Gaylord Stuckey bought a bag of rice for Chris and then driven him to the University of Alaska in Fairbanks. Chris wanted to look up books and purchase supplies. Gallien picked him up outside the campus and dropped him off somewhere. Chris' whereabouts were all in his journal (p.163) entries. Tramping through the bush, he soon discovered the abandoned bus (p.163) along the river. He celebrated the discovery by writing in his journal "Magic Bus Day." On June 9, 1992, Chris killed a moose (p.166). He was so proud of this accomplishment that he took a photo of the carcass. Unfortunately, he preserved the meat incorrectly, so it became a waste. After reading a passage from Tolstoy's "Family Happiness," he decided to pack his things and head back to civilization. However, he made some errors. When he arrived back at the Teklanika River, he was unable to cross it due to the snow melt. It was said that Chris was a weak swimmer. He returned back to the bus and has written how he was alone (p.163) and scared. He refused to obtain a map of the area.

Analysis: After reading the chapter, I felt bad for Chris. He was able to shoot a moose, but he didn't preserve it correctly, so it became a waste. Anyway, Chris didn't anticipate that that the melting snow. He didn't expect to come across from it. I think it was stupid of him not to bring a watch or a map. He should have brought the map with him though. That would have helped him a lot. 

#killedamoose #nomap #lonely]]> 2022-01-12 15:51:42 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1988534013 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1990548087 Summary: In this chapter, Krakauer and his friends revisited the Teklanika River one year and one week after Chris decided not to cross it. Krakauer and his friends were well-equipped to ford the river. Additionally, the four of them have a map (p.173). They found the cable car where Chris attempted to cross the river (p.173). The reason they found the cable car was because they carried a map with them. The cable stretched between a 15-foot tower on one side of the river and an outcrop on the opposite shore. While retracing his path, the men confirmed that Chris shot a moose, not a caribou. The author continued to wonder why Chris didn't attempt another crossing. When the arrived at the bus, they found many things. They found a bag of bird feathers, Ronald Franz' machete sheath, books, stove, jeans, hiking boots, toenail clippers, and a tent. The author believed that Chris was book smart, but lacked common sense (p.184). Anyway, they spent the night camping outside the bus. The four of them talked about his mistakes (p.185) that led to his death. In the end of the chapter, the men were able to put themselves in Chris' shoes and concluded that they respect (p.181) his need for adventure.

Analysis: After reading the chapter, I continued to have the same opinion on Chris. Like I've said before, Chris should have taken a map. That would have prevented his death. This chapter or this book has taught some people about traveling. The number one rule is to always be prepared. Also, people should have a back plan just in case something backfires.

#map #cablecar #moosenotcaribou]]> 2022-01-13 15:05:10 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1990548087 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1993636740 Summary: In this chapter, Chris returned to the bus on July 8, 1992. He continued hunting and gathering edible berries and wild potatoes. As he was reading Doctor Zhivago, Chris annotated the text and wrote, "Happiness is only real when shared." On July 30th, Chris has written how he was extremely weak, hungry, and in great jeopardy (p.189). The author pointed out that nothing here suggested that Chris was in danger of starving to death. Wayne Westerberg suggested that Chris ate potato seeds he bought in South Dakota. It was said that they can become toxic once they've sprouted. However, there was a plant that Chris may or may not have foraged for. He confused his plants and ate sweet pea that contained toxins (p.193). His body doesn't have enough fat or energy to fight the toxins in his body. He became too weak to hunt and became closer toward starvation (p.195).On August 5th, he proudly has written in his journal that he has spent 100 days in the wild. He also noted, "BUT IN WEAKEST CONDITION OF LIFE. DEATH LOOMS AS SERIOUS THREAT. TOO WEAK TO WALK OUT, HAVE LITERALLY BECOME TRAPPED IN THE WILD --NO GAME." The author pointed out that Chris would have died either way (even with a map). Krakauer discovered that the cabin had been vandalized and the food had been exposed to animals and the weather. Also, he wrote and posted the SOS note on the bus. On August 12th, he wrote, "Beautiful Blueberries" in his final journal (p.199) entry. From August 13 through the 18th, he had written nothing but tallies of days. During that week, he tore the final page from a book. On the back of the page, he wrote, "I HAVE HAD A HAPPY LIFE AND THANK THE LORD. GOODBYE (p.199) AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL." He decided to take a picture of himself, standing near the bus, one hand holding his final note toward the camera and the other raised in a brave farewell. Then, he crawled into the sleeping bag his mother had sewn for him and slipped into unconsciousness. Chris most likely passed away on August 19, 1992.

Analysis: After reading the chapter, I wondered if Chris finally came to forgive his family when he underlined, "Happiness is only real when shared." It was really sad how Chris died in such a painful and lonely way. I liked how this chapter had scientific research. The author interviewed scientists in an attempt to find answers. The toxin produced by a mold most likely killed Chris McCandless. I find the last paragraph of the chapter sad. He was described as young and alone. Additionally, it was said that his body had "betrayed" him. In the picture, he was smiling knowing that his time was nearly over.

#finalgoodbye #smileforthepicture #restinpeace]]> 2022-01-15 16:24:18 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1993636740 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1998197593 Summary: The author brought Walt and Billie to go visit the place where Chris died. Originally, Billie wanted to travel overland, but the Teklanika River was too dangerous to cross. Because of that, they decided to travel by helicopter (p.201) instead. All of them arrived at the area and they saw the bus (p.201). Both Walt and Billie admired the place. Even though Walt disliked Alaska, he admitted that the place had a certain beauty (p.202). 30 minutes later, they visited the woods. Billie entered the bus first and discovered Chris' possessions. At the front of the bus, Billie picked up a pair of Chris' jeans (p.202). She pressed them to her face and claimed that the jeans still smell like Chris. Both Walt and Billie wandered in and out of the bus for the next two hours. Walt installed a plaque inscribed with a few words while Billie arranged a bouquet along with a suitcase filled with supplies and a note (p.202). At the end, the parents flew away from the bus that grew smaller in the distance.

Analysis: After reading the epilogue, I found it heartbreaking. Walt and Billie did not deserve to go through this much pain of losing Chris. I know for a fact that Carine was going through more pain compared to Walt and Billie. The reason was because Chris and Carine used to very close and had a strong bond. Also, it seemed like Billie was going through more pain than Walt. I hope both of them realize they're the reason why Chris left in the first place.

#byebyebus #helicopter #pain]]> 2022-01-18 15:18:23 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/1998197593 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/2001939814 Summary: Originally, it was declared that starvation was the cause of Chris' death. After 23 years, the mystery has been solved. The author circled back again and again to one thing which was Chris' diary (Para. 3). The biggest clue that Chris wrote was "Extremely weak. Fault of pot. seeds." With the help of the writer, Ronald Hamilton, the author decided to test the seeds for a neurotoxin called beta-ODAP (Para. 6). The results showed that the seed can cause gradual weakening (Para. 7) and paralysis (Para. 7) in famine victims relying on a certain pea. About nine months later, the author published results in a journal that showed that it was another amino acid called L-canavanine (Para. 9) was the culprit. The plant becomes toxic after a certain amount of time to scare off the predators. Unfortunately, Chris did eat the plant after it became toxic.

Analysis: The article was very informational and interesting to read. I hope people realize that science is very complicated. It takes a lot of research and trials to come up with a conclusion. The author literally spent $20,000 and months just to figure out how Chris died. It amazed me how Krakauer didn't give up right away. If Chris haven't ate that plant, then he would have been alive.

#scientificresearch #L-canavavine #toxins]]> 2022-01-20 03:47:33 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/2001939814 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/2001949449 Every other year (excluding the pandemic), my family would always go to the same place for vacation: Vietnam. Vietnam is a beautiful country. I was able to try new dishes like lau mam. Additionally, I was able to eat tropical fruits like mangosteen and star fruit. The fruits were absolutely delicious. I also took the cable car to the top of a mountain (I don't know the name). The view below was stunning. I even went to the amusement parks there. Even though Vietnam is a great place to go, I would like to go somewhere else. I would like to go to Europe especially Switzerland! One day, I was scrolling on YouTube and there was a video with mountains on the thumbnail. I couldn't help but click on the video. It turns out that the video was not clickbait. It was a Switzerland tourism video. The video showcased a lot of things that caught my eye. One was them was the Swiss Alps and the other was the flower fields. I think I am a bit obsessed with the flower fields. The tulips there are absolutely stunning. Switzerland is just a beautiful place. I literally fell in love with the country. The food also looks good.

I like to try new things. I like to try new food and go to different places. Once I graduate from college, I would like to go to Switzerland with my family. I would love to try the tarts there especially the cheese tarts. Additionally, I would love to try Swiss cheese. I've tried Swiss cheese before, but I know it would taste better if I was in Switzerland. I want to taste some of the world's best Swiss chocolate as well. I just know that their chocolates are sweet and creamy. As I've mentioned before, Switzerland has one of the best sceneries. I want to hike the mountains. It is an experience that I don't want to miss out on. I want to ride the train too. There is this tourist-orientated train route called Golden Pass. The ride is 5.5 hours. With those 5.5 hours, I can admire the lakes, waterfalls, and valleys. I know I'll be mesmerized by the view. The country itself seems so quiet and peaceful compared to here. Even though I haven't started my journey yet, I know I will in the future.

#foodislife #followyourdreams #explore]]> 2022-01-20 03:55:00 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/2001949449 enguyen1281_2 https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/2005369234 Into the Wild is a book based on a true story of a 19 year-old named Christopher McCandless who walked out of his privileged life. He decided to live in the wilderness. My feelings for Chris change throughout the book. There were times where I admire him, but there were times in the story I question his actions. 

There are good things about Chris. Chris was a teenager who was born in a wealthy family. He donated $24,000 to OXFAM which was a charity fighting for hunger. Additionally, Chris had the courage to break free from the materialistic society: capitalism. He even changed his identity to Alexander Supertramp. He invented a new life for himself and was able to sustain himself in the wild for two years. It's amazing how he became independent at a young age. Additionally, he has left a positive impact on the people he met throughout his journey. It's difficult to create a special bond with a total stranger in a short amount of time. He befriended Ron who is really old. When Ron's friends informed him that Chris was dead, he became so distraught that he started drinking again. Chris achieved the happiness and purpose that he was seeking during his odyssey. There are people in today's society where they would set goals, but end up not accomplishing them. Indeed, Chris was resilient and a pursuer. 

On the other hand, there are bad things about Chris. To start off, he ran away from his problems. He was a very stubborn person. Even though I don't like Chris or Billie, no parent deserved the pain Chris caused them. Chris claimed that he loved his sister, but he left her behind. Chris didn't even contact his sister, no communication at all whatsoever. Additionally, Chris was not prepared to face the consequences for his actions of going off into the wild and living alone. Chris may have survived if he had a map on him. He often acted out of impulse due to his family problems. He pushed people away when they got too close to him. Ron Franz wanted to adopt Chris, but Chris decided to run away instead.

After reading the entire book, I concluded that I admire Chris more than I dislike him. No one is perfect. I admire what he was trying to accomplish and how he lived his life. However, I don't like what he did to his family especially to Carine. Overall, the good outweighs the bad. 

#intothewild #dreamscometrue #ripChris]]> 2022-01-21 16:33:07 UTC https://padlet.com/enguyen1281_2/whehs8ksgn53h4n1/wish/2005369234