Rivers and Ice: A Woman's Journey Toward Family and Forgiveness

A great read that left me recalling memories of times experienced with my parents, children and grandchild as I read the author’s reflection of self and family – the love, challenges, doubts, and regrets. A glimpse into of how life’s experiences, our own and our families, shape us in unique and complex ways. Something for all ages.

This book was pretty much well-written.

It also made me think a lot about my own family history.

The writing here is beautiful; it was like I was right there. The story follows her growing up in Alaska in the state's very early days. She lived through that enormous earthquake--and writes about it in great detail--and has encountered just about every kind of wild animal you can imagine. The rafting trips are interesting too. Best parts are about her family, though. Particularly loved the whole trying-to-find-Neptune story. Highly recommend.

Alaskans will relate to this gutsy and well told series of reflections woven into a unique life story. The author covers lots of ground - literally and figuratively - in the telling. She takes the reader alongside on her journey in this well-written memoir. Reading it makes you feel like you're just listening in on the converstations on her afternoon hike. Then you realize the depth of the material and you begin to understand how she captured the complexity of the moments and emotions with an economical and sparkling clarity. Being "prissy" wasn't an option for the author when things went sideways - in the wilderness, in relationships, or when the unexpected tragedy struck. The author has the guts to examine her joys and pains, hopes and fears, inner life and feelings at an authentic level, and it turns out to be complex and remarkable - just like the Alaska wilderness where much of her life happens. Anyone interested in a real Alaskan's life story should read this book.

I really enjoyed reading Susan Pope’s memoir about growing up and living in Alaska. The novel is well written and the author is courageous in sharing her story. It is hard for me to imagine living in that harsh environment. People who make it in Alaska are strong-willed and have come to terms with and love the wilderness. Some of her stories are hair raising, but completely interesting. Strong thumbs up 👍!