Coming Into the Country : Book Review

"Coming Into the Country" by John McPhee is a captivating and immersive journey into the wilderness and people of Alaska. Divided into three parts, the book delves into the history, geography, and inhabitants of America's largest state. McPhee's extensive research and engaging storytelling bring Alaska's rugged landscape to life, painting a vivid picture of its vastness and the challenges it presents.

In the first section, McPhee provides a comprehensive account of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act and its controversial impact on the environment and local communities. He explores the complex relationship between conservation efforts and the livelihoods of those who rely on Alaska's resources, presenting a nuanced perspective that encourages readers to contemplate the delicate balance between preservation and support.

The second part focuses on the Yukon River, a lifeline for those who call Alaska home. McPhee delves into the lives of those who depend on the river for survival, capturing their tenacity and resilience. From gold miners panning for treasure to hunters searching for caribou, the author brings to light the challenges and triumphs of those who choose to live in this remote state.

The final section takes readers deep into the wilderness of northern Alaska, revealing the experiences of those who embrace an off-the-grid lifestyle. McPhee's descriptions of their encounters with the untamed landscape and the solitude they seek create a sense of awe and wonder.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Coming Into the Country" is the way McPhee seamlessly weaves together the stories of both the individuals and the land itself. Through his encounters with residents and his captivating descriptions of the region's history and natural wonders, the author showcases the unique character of Alaska and its people.

What are readers saying?

"Coming Into the Country" by John McPhee has garnered mostly positive reviews on Goodreads, with readers commending the author's storytelling prowess and his ability to vividly depict Alaska's vast wilderness. Many reviewers found the book to be a captivating exploration of the region's history, culture, and environmental challenges. However, a few readers felt that the book was excessively long and lacked a clear focus, while others perceived a bias in the author's portrayal of the local population. Overall, "Coming Into the Country" is highly regarded by readers who enjoy immersive non-fiction narratives.

The majority of reviewers on Goodreads found "Coming Into the Country" to be a engrossing and well-crafted book. They were enthralled by the author's storytelling skills and his ability to paint a vivid picture of Alaska's expansive wilderness, enabling them to fully immerse themselves in the narrative. Readers were particularly drawn to the book's exploration of the region's history, culture, and the environmental challenges it faces, finding it both informative and thought-provoking.

However, a minority of readers felt that "Coming Into the Country" was overly lengthy and may have benefitted from tighter editing. They found certain sections to be repetitive or tangent, which detracted from the book's overall focus. While many appreciated the author's attention to detail, some felt that it hindered the flow and pace of the storytelling.

Another concern raised by a few reviewers was the potential bias in the author's portrayal of Alaska's local population. They believed that he overly romanticized the native inhabitants, presenting them as the noble "true Alaskans," while depicting outsiders, particularly those involved in resource extraction industries, in a negative light. This perceived bias left some readers questioning the author's objectivity in his exploration of the region.

Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment among reviewers was that "Coming Into the Country" provides a captivating and immersive reading experience. Readers were able to learn about the challenges faced by Alaska's wilderness and the impact of human intervention, appreciating the author's passion for the subject matter and his deep understanding of the region.

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