In The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah, Leni Allbright's coming-of-age story unfolds as her family moves to a remote Alaskan town, Kaneq. Her father, Ernt, a Vietnam veteran with PTSD, struggles to adjust, causing tension and hardship. Despite community support and a deepening friendship with Matthew Walker, escalating domestic violence and personal tragedies challenge Leni and her mother, ultimately leading Leni to return to Alaska as an adult to honor her mother's last wishes.

Triggering or sensitive topics include domestic violence and PTSD.

Kristin Hannah's The Great Alone is widely praised for its vivid Alaskan setting and emotional depth. Reviewers commend Hannah's storytelling and character development, highlighting the protagonist's resilience. However, some critique the plot's melodramatic elements and predictability. Overall, it's a moving tale with impactful themes, though not without its flaws.

Readers who appreciated the rugged resilience and emotional depth of Cheryl Strayed's Wild or the familial complexities of Kristin Hannah's own The Nightingale will be captivated by The Great Alone. This book is ideal for those who seek powerful family sagas set against the majestic yet unforgiving backdrop of Alaska.

Emotional / Challenging / Adventurous / Melancholic / Contemplative

- The Great Alone was a New York Times bestseller and was published by St. Martin's Press in 2018.
- The novel's setting in 1970s Alaska is partly inspired by Kristin Hannah's own experiences living in the state.
- Kristin Hannah conducted extensive research into both the historical and cultural aspects of Alaska to authentically portray the backdrop of the story.

**Lenora (Leni) Allbright**  
A bookish, red-headed girl who relocates with her family to Alaska, where she learns to adapt to the challenging environment and gradually becomes part of the community. Her close friendship with Matthew deepens over time, adding complexity to her life in Alaska.

**Coraline (Cora) Allbright**  
Leni's mother, a beautiful woman with surprising strength, who grows accustomed to Alaskan life and forms close friendships with local women. Her devotion to Leni is a defining aspect of her character, influencing many of her actions.

**Ernt Allbright**  
A Vietnam veteran struggling with post-traumatic stress, who moves his family to Alaska in hopes of finding stability. His survival skills and strong opinions are noticeable aspects of his character.

**Matthew Walker**  
A solitary child from Kaneq who shares a love of books and Alaskan life with Leni. His relationship with Leni is a key element of his storyline.

**"Large Marge" Birdsall**  
A perceptive and generous former prosecutor who owns the only grocery store in Kaneq and quickly becomes a supportive figure for the Allbright family. Her insight and community spirit aid the family in adapting to their new environment.

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Chapters 1-4

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Chapters 5-8

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Chapters 9-11

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Chapters 12-15

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Chapters 19-21

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Chapters 22-24

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Chapters 25-26

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Chapters 27-29

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Chapters 30-31

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