This short but powerful tale is a gem for anyone who appreciates stories of resilience, survival, and reinvention - especially if you're interested in indigenous cultures and legends. Readers will find inspiration in the journey of two elders who, rather than giving up, face hardship with courage and ingenuity. The book beautifully honors the strength and value of older people, making it particularly meaningful for those who want to challenge ageist stereotypes or crave a positive, uplifting ending.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you prefer highly detailed world-building or intricate character backstories, you may find the story too spare or straightforward. Some readers might wish for more vivid descriptions of the landscape and day-to-day survival details. Also, if you're looking for complex, ambiguous endings or lots of action, the simple fable-like style of this book may feel underwhelming.

A short, heartening read about the power of spirit and community, this modern legend is perfect for a dose of inspiration and hope.

About:

'Two Old Women' by Velma Wallis is a touching story about two elderly women who are abandoned by their tribe in the harsh Alaskan winter. Despite being left behind, the women decide to survive and thrive, showcasing resilience, independence, and the strength of the human spirit. The plot focuses on themes of aging, friendship, survival, and the value society places on older individuals. Written in a simple and direct prose style, the book provides a powerful message about not underestimating the capabilities of older people and the importance of self-reliance.

'Two Old Women' is based on an indigenous legend about the strength and courage of women, set in a tribal society facing challenging circumstances. The story highlights the transformation of the two old women as they learn new survival skills, gain self-esteem, and ultimately earn respect and independence. The author, Velma Wallis, beautifully captures the essence of the human spirit through this tale of survival and empowerment, shedding light on the resilience and wisdom of older generations.

Characters:

The characters portray strength and resourcefulness, particularly the protagonists, who embody resilience and independence in dire circumstances.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is straightforward and lyrical, reflecting oral storytelling traditions, and is accessible to readers.

Plot/Storyline:

The story follows two old women left behind during a famine and their fight for survival, demonstrating resilience and empowerment against societal norms.

Setting:

The setting is a harsh Alaskan wilderness during a famine, emphasizing the struggle for survival and connecting deeply with indigenous culture.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick and engaging, balancing action with reflective moments to keep the reader's interest.

The air stretched tight, quiet and cold over the vast land. Tall spruce branches hung heavily laden with snow, awaiting distant spring winds. The frosted willows seemed to tremble in the freezing temp...

Notes:

The book is a retelling of an old Athabascan folktale.

It tells the story of two elderly women abandoned by their tribe during a harsh winter.

The women decide to survive rather than accept death.

Themes of empowerment and inner strength are central to the narrative.

The story highlights ageism in society and the undervaluation of older individuals.

It reveals the resilience of the two women as they learn to fend for themselves.

Illustrations complement the simple yet profound prose of the story.

The author Velma Wallis comes from the Gwich'in Athabascan heritage.

The legend emphasizes the importance of wisdom and experience that comes with age.

It showcases Alaskan Native culture and traditions as part of the survival narrative.

From The Publisher:

"No one should miss this beautiful legend." - Tony Hillerman

Based on an Athabascan Indian legend passed along for many generations from mothers to daughters of the upper Yukon River Valley in Alaska, this is the suspenseful, shocking, ultimately inspirational tale of two old women abandoned by their tribe during a brutal winter famine.

Though these women have been known to complain more than contribute, they now must either survive on their own or die trying. In simple but vivid detail, Velma Wallis depicts a landscape and way of life that are at once merciless and starkly beautiful. In her old women, she has created two heroines of steely determination whose story of betrayal, friendship, community, and forgiveness "speaks straight to the heart with clarity, sweetness, and wisdom" (Ursula K. Le Guin).

1993

•

157 pages

Ratings (6)

Incredible (3)
Loved It (2)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (14):

Read It (6)
Want To Read (5)
Not Interested (3)

What can you read after
Two Old Women: An Alaskan Legend of Betrayal, Courage and Survival?

See the list (100 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Two Old Women: An Alaskan Legend of Betrayal, Courage and Survival

Velma Wallis

Who Would Like This Book: