Follow the River by JAMES ALEXANDER Thom
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Book Reviews of Follow the River
Book Review: This captive story makes you feel like you were there.
Summary: 5 Stars
Mary Ingles' great love for her husband was the connecting link that gave her the courage and strength to make her way home. Captured by the Shawnee, Mary walked 1,000 miles from Big Bone Salt Lick in Indiana back to Drapper's Meadow in Virgina. Everytime the weather is freezing here (Northeast Ohio), I imagine Mary walking without any protection from the elements. The Ohio River was her guide. I am not a strong swimmer and can't belive how she (a nonswimmer) had to forge many parts of the river to continue her journey. The descriptions in the book are so vivid, that while I was driving, I was able to identify cliffs and the New River in Virginia described in the story before I saw any road signs. I also was able to walk a part of the trail that Mary actually traveled. The trail was very dense and heavily wooded. I felt like I needed to be on the lookout so that I wouldn't be captured. I guarantee you won't be able to put the book down.Book Review: another personal connection
Summary: 5 Stars
Like Thelma, I, too have a personal connection to this story. I grew up in Blacksburg, VA, the modern town at the site of Drapers Meadow. I learned of the Drapers Meadow massacre on a field trip to the site, in the 4th grade, in 1953. I did not, however, remember learning of Mary Ingles nor her harrowing trip.
There's no point in repeating the myriad points that the other reviewers have made; I agree with all, and found it a gripping story, one that could easily serve as the screenplay. I can just see Mary's face on the big screen, clinging to some roots in in a rainstorm.
I might allow, though, that I was wondering how the author was going to get Mary and Gretel a thousand miles across Ohio, West Virginia, and Virginia without boring the reader with the sameness of their situation. But I was drawn in and found it compelling. Couldn't put it down; it was a great read.
Book Review: An amazing read
Summary: 5 Stars
This book was a detailed book that brought clear emotions of awe, pity, horror, and rage. The author does a great job of making the characters and the surroundings seem real-I felt like I was alongside Mary starving, cold, and fearful during her escape. It brought realizations and knowledge about the famous Mary Ingles and how vile, inhuman, and savage people can be to each other. I loved the setting and the story....yet, I am truly grateful for living in this time period. The author does a terrific job of getting the reader deeply involved in the life of Mary Ingles during the mid 1700's. I am still in complete wonder at how patient, determined, and strong-willed Mary was. This book was a great read!
Also recommended: Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurty, Seabiscuit, The Bastard by John Jakes, The Count of Monte Cristo, Comanche of the Seventh, Castaway of the Flying Dutchman
Book Review: From Childhood....
Summary: 5 Stars
I have never reviewed a book, however I have never remembered any other book so vividly from my childhood. (And I have read so many!) I read this book for a book report back when I was 11 years old (it was one of those 'choose your own books' type of homework).
It was amazing. I got an A, however my teacher did think that the details I gave during class were too much for young minds.
I never forgot this work and only remembered because I was trying to think of one of my favorite books, and my mind went straight away to my memories of this book, read more than 20 years ago! Talk about a book you will not forget! This is one of those gems that will live on...for a long time. In fact, I'm going to buy it and read it again. It was a library loaned book, so I've never owned it.
Can't wait to have it again!
Book Review: Still With Me
Summary: 5 Stars
I loved this book! It had me from the beginning. While it is not for the weak of heart, it is very telling of the time. I can't imagine what Mary Ingalls went through even after reading the book. What a strong woman she must have been. Thom did a wonderful job with his illustrations of the characters and of the landscape. I often felt that I was making the trip back to the homestead myself. The true test of this book is the fact that it is still with me. I often travel along the Ohio River (further west than where this took place), and after reading this book, I have taken more notice of the landscape than ever before. I stand in awe of Mary and Ghetal and their making the trip along the Ohio River in the harsh elements of the fall and winter. I rarely read books more than once, but I will read this one again!