Into the Forest by Jean Hegland
My rating: 4/5 cats
this is definitely a novel.
i mean, i never thought it was a true story, but i just want to emphasize that decisions characters make in this book are very much suitable for literary purposes; they provide dramatic tension and character development and a story arc, but as far as practical decision-making goes, these sisters fall a little short.
there was a point when i thought, “hey – these girls finally have it together and are taking real steps towards their own survival,” only to modify that somewhat later to, “oh, these characters are making decisions that will have literary appeal and dramatic heft.”
which is fine, but i would suggest a different book if you are looking for survival tips.
and the irony is that at one point, a character does something and then decides not to do it after all (i sacrifice details to slyly avoid spoilers) and i thought “d’oh – you scared little bunny! don’t let emotions get in the way of doing the bold and sensible thing!” but then later – in the final act, she has a chance to essentially make the same decision, albeit more conclusively, and even though i had rooted for her to View Spoiler », i didn’t want her to View Spoiler » when there is now View Spoiler » with only View Spoiler » to go View Spoiler ». the decision is the same: View Spoiler », but the circumstances are totally different: View Spoiler ».
did i mention that there was View Spoiler »!!!??? because there is. bad decision number two, in my opinion.this is what i mean by literary – it is all well and good to have this idyllic scenario, but whatever your politics View Spoiler »
and i am not selling this book right now, am i? i really liked it – i thought it was terrific. but when something nags at my mind, it is as though it is the only thing i can see, and i am like a puppy with a stick. now i have splintered the book for you. but it is splintered with love. tough tough love.
it is a great story of sisterhood and mental survival to changed circumstances. but if you read a lot of survival literature, you can’t help but worry about these girls and their future among the living.
