BOOK BRIEF

The Wilderness

Samantha Harvey
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The Wilderness

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

Book Brief

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Samantha Harvey

The Wilderness

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

372

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 2000s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Wilderness by Samantha Harvey follows a man, Jacob, who copes with Alzheimer's disease. The narrative explores his fragmented memories, revealing aspects of his life, relationships, and past experiences. As Jacob's condition progresses, the novel delves into themes of memory, identity, and the impacts of the illness on oneself and loved ones.

Melancholic

Mysterious

Contemplative

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

3.7

1,138 ratings

51%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Wilderness by Samantha Harvey is lauded for its profound exploration of memory and identity through its protagonist's battle with Alzheimer's. Critics praise Harvey's lyrical prose and empathetic characterization. However, some note the novel's disjointed narrative can be challenging to follow. Overall, it’s a moving portrayal of a deteriorating mind.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Wilderness?

A reader who appreciates introspective fiction exploring memory and identity would enjoy The Wilderness by Samantha Harvey. Fans of Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go and Lisa Genova's Still Alice will find its exploration of Alzheimer's compelling and beautifully written.

3.7

1,138 ratings

51%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

372

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 2000s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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