“No one should miss this beautiful legend.” — Tony HillermanBased 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 … 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).
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Very short, but enjoyable
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the story. Its subject matter is perfect for fans of cultural stories or the author Farley Mowat.
A Tale that is Retold, That Needs to be Retold
Velma Wallis brings a legend to life with Two Old Women: An Alaskan Legend of Betrayal, Courage and Survival. It is an old Athabascan legend about two old women who have been left behind by their tribe during a crisis.
The women must learn how to survive alone.
No cliches, just survival
There …
Great book. Anyone interested in Alaska would enjoy this book.
Having reached the “wonderful golden years” and doubting my abilities this book gave me inspiration and validation that though I am “old” I am still able.
It felt like I was listening to the story listening to the elders. I loved it.
a very unusual story
Overcoming pain, cold, hunger, and the will to survive. Very inspirational.
A realistic telling of an old passed down tale. Simple but inspiring!
Good book for a afternoon read.
First-rate writing that makes readers think.
This is one of those books that I file away for future references. If ever I need to tell a story of survival, of instinct or friendship then this is the story that I would tell. It is a quick, easy read with minimal characters.
Terrific theme of rediscovery of self- worth
This was a great book about ingenuity, ageism, and gender bias as well as Native American culture. Worth the read.
Very easy read
I loved this very short book about TWO OLD WOMEN. They were native American women living with their tribe in Alaska during an exceptionally cold winter. The tribe is starving and needs to move quickly to try to find a food source. The two old women are a drag on the tribe’s time and travel. For the good of the tribe the chief reluctantly …
A wonderful, inspiring tale – glad I read it!
Unusual characters seldom found in literature-two ol, very strong and determined, women. Inspiring.
I found myself captivated by these two women and their story of struggle and survival. I have recommended it to several friends who have also loved it.
Excellent book, a great story and well written