Significant+Plot+Points

Significant Plot Events:

The book is organized in a very unorthodox way. Strangely the resolution comes first and all the other information is filled in throughout the book. The following events are the significant plot points in what our group believes to be chronological order. While this may not be 100% accurate because of the author's writing style we believe this order is quite close to the actual order.

Family Issues: -Chris's father was divorced and remarried and was unfaithful to his new wife. Chris was very affected by his father's actions and hypocrisy and often had trouble with male authority.

Chris Graduates: -He graduated from college in a strange sense of conformity. His parents wanted him to graduate and get a job. He graduated to please them.

Alex Leaves: -After graduating Alex donates all his funds to a charity and sets out alone in his car. He stopped all ties with his family.

Alex Ditches Car: -After losing his car to a flood Alex burns all his remaining cash and sets out on foot to explore North America.

Chris Befriends Franz: -Franz was an older gentlemen who Alex ran into along his travels. They became dear friends and Chris spent a surprisingly large amount of time in his company. After leaving he also kept in touch.

Wayne Westerberg: -In a stop in Carthage, South Dakota Alex met Wayne. Alex was there because he needed funds so he could continue his travels. It is probably about this time that Alex started to think about and Alaskan journey. Wayne offered Alex a job and Alex stayed around for the season working.

Wayne Westerberg (Criminal): -Wayne was sentenced to serve a time in prison and Alex thus lost his job. Wayne had become and almost fatherly figure to Alex and once again Alex was greatly affected. He continued communications with Wayne throughout his travels.

Jan Burres: -Also throughout his travels Alex met Jan. He stayed with her for quite some time as well. There is evidence to suggest that he may have actually had feelings for her as well. He kept in touch with her after leaving.

Wayne Released: -After Wayne was released Alex returned to work for him one last time to gain funds for his trip. He then hitch-hiked to Fairbanks.

Final Letters: -Although Alex may have intended to survive his adventure he sent letters to everyone he remained in contact with. Jan, Wayne and Franz all received letters that can be found within the book. They all stated that Alex may not return from his trip due to the serious dangers. The letter to Franz is probably the most moving due to the fact that it moves Franz to sell all his belongings and live as Alex had.

Chris/Alex Dies: -While trying to find himself and his place in the world Alex starves in Alaska.

Alex's Body is Found: -A group of travelers stumble upon Alex's body inside an abandoned bus. They first discovered a note on the door from Chris asking for help.