Survive
by Alex Morel
Member Reviews
"You can indulge at death's door"
What an amazing story about survival and love and the connection between two people that can only come from experiencing something 'life or death' together.
The writing style works perfectly with the story. Haunting and short, it gives just enough detail so you know what's going on but never bogs down. And the book is a complete page turner. And with each chapter, it gets more intense and you can't flip the pages quick enough, can't absorb the words fast enough!
And then you hit a point where you just know you must peak at the last chapter JUST TO KNOW HOW IT ENDS!
Don't do it. Let the story unfold. It's amazing and breathtaking.
What an amazing story about survival and love and the connection between two people that can only come from experiencing something 'life or death' together.
The writing style works perfectly with the story. Haunting and short, it gives just enough detail so you know what's going on but never bogs down. And the book is a complete page turner. And with each chapter, it gets more intense and you can't flip the pages quick enough, can't absorb the words fast enough!
And then you hit a point where you just know you must peak at the last chapter JUST TO KNOW HOW IT ENDS!
Don't do it. Let the story unfold. It's amazing and breathtaking.
Survive is a heartbreaking and beautiful debut from author Alex Morel.
I was so excited to read a book under 300 pages. I feel like this has become a rarity. I started the book before bed one night and had easily read half before putting it down. It only took one more sitting the next day for me to finish it off.
The book is divided into two parts; Part One: Prepare for Takeoff and Part Two: Survive. Within both parts the chapters were very short and propelled you forward to keep reading just one more, which always turned into a bunch more!
While I may not have loved the characters right from the start, I did grow to love them as the story went on. I was so impressed with both Jane and Paul’s bravery, strength, and sense of calm. If my plane went down onto an icy mountaintop I don’t think I would be able to pull myself together as fast as they do. What started out as a conversation between two strangers on an airplane evolves into a bond strong enough to keep each other alive.
While I did enjoy the romance aspect, I don’t think it is one that ever would have developed outside of the circumstances. I think any guy and girl who were in a life or death situation would probably end up getting romantic. I mean you’re the only two people alive, and who knows if you’re ever going to see another human being again.
Even though I knew how things were going to end (it says so right up there in the synopsis^) it still broke my heart and made me cry when it happened, leaving show more tearstains on the pages.
The whole book is this intense fight for survival, filled with stress and anticipation for rescue. It all builds up to what we hope will be a satisfying ending. However, I was really disappointed in the ending. After all we went through, that’s all the closure we get? Seriously? It just wasn’t enough for me.
On the inside flap of the book it was described as “Hatchet for a new generation.” I’d never heard of Hatchet befor,e but now I want to read it, and if it’s anywhere near as good as Survive I know I’m going to like it. A lot! I can’t wait to see what author Alex Morel cooks up for us next time.
Objectionable Content Warning: disturbing images of people after the plane crash, talk of Jane’s former suicide attempts, a handful of swears, most of which were the F word, and the killing & skinning of a rabbit. show less
I was so excited to read a book under 300 pages. I feel like this has become a rarity. I started the book before bed one night and had easily read half before putting it down. It only took one more sitting the next day for me to finish it off.
The book is divided into two parts; Part One: Prepare for Takeoff and Part Two: Survive. Within both parts the chapters were very short and propelled you forward to keep reading just one more, which always turned into a bunch more!
While I may not have loved the characters right from the start, I did grow to love them as the story went on. I was so impressed with both Jane and Paul’s bravery, strength, and sense of calm. If my plane went down onto an icy mountaintop I don’t think I would be able to pull myself together as fast as they do. What started out as a conversation between two strangers on an airplane evolves into a bond strong enough to keep each other alive.
While I did enjoy the romance aspect, I don’t think it is one that ever would have developed outside of the circumstances. I think any guy and girl who were in a life or death situation would probably end up getting romantic. I mean you’re the only two people alive, and who knows if you’re ever going to see another human being again.
Even though I knew how things were going to end (it says so right up there in the synopsis^) it still broke my heart and made me cry when it happened, leaving show more tearstains on the pages.
The whole book is this intense fight for survival, filled with stress and anticipation for rescue. It all builds up to what we hope will be a satisfying ending. However, I was really disappointed in the ending. After all we went through, that’s all the closure we get? Seriously? It just wasn’t enough for me.
On the inside flap of the book it was described as “Hatchet for a new generation.” I’d never heard of Hatchet befor,e but now I want to read it, and if it’s anywhere near as good as Survive I know I’m going to like it. A lot! I can’t wait to see what author Alex Morel cooks up for us next time.
Objectionable Content Warning: disturbing images of people after the plane crash, talk of Jane’s former suicide attempts, a handful of swears, most of which were the F word, and the killing & skinning of a rabbit. show less
Jane got my attention right away because I have had mental health problems as well, and I am fascinated with reading this type book. I was intrigued at how someone could go from wanting to kill themselves to fighting tooth and nail to survive after a plane crash. I don't know how much has to do with control of when and how, or actually just having that near death experience that kicked her survival instinct in gear.
Her relationship and interactions with Paul are all meaningful and escalated because of the situation that they find themselves in. There is no time to be coy, hide things, or to really sort out emotions. They are faced with so many things that could end their life or the others' that they are feeling everything on multiply and then to the extreme.
Jane herself is witty and intense. It was definitely a unique experience being inside her head. I first didn't want to like her, but I ended up as she grew and learned to appreciate life.
Bottom Line: Survive is an action packed, emotional no holds barred kind of book that I did not look away from.
Her relationship and interactions with Paul are all meaningful and escalated because of the situation that they find themselves in. There is no time to be coy, hide things, or to really sort out emotions. They are faced with so many things that could end their life or the others' that they are feeling everything on multiply and then to the extreme.
Jane herself is witty and intense. It was definitely a unique experience being inside her head. I first didn't want to like her, but I ended up as she grew and learned to appreciate life.
Bottom Line: Survive is an action packed, emotional no holds barred kind of book that I did not look away from.
Posted @ RJ Does Books!
Jane has a plan, and you're not invited. It's only her, and her decision alone, thank you very much. While on break from being treated at a rehabilitation center for her suicidal tendencies, Jane plots out a way she can finally do the deed. Though she enters the plane alive at take off, she won't be living when it touches down. Or so she thinks. When the plane crashes there is only one other survivor. A boy named Paul, and together the two must do all they can to survive against the harsh snowy backdrop.
Perhaps this wasn't the best novel for me to read, given that I am not one who usually fancies books that steer away from the "fiction/fantasy" aspect and are too "realistic." No. I choose to read mostly fantasy novels (meaning novels that aren't JUST sci-fi, but with other aspects like H.E.A. or interesting twists and inversions on everyday life) simply for the fact that I love to read and escape. I've talked about this before on my blog and on my youtube channel. When I read books, I am after the escapeism factor. One to lead me away from the troubles of my own life for a few hours a day and envelop me into a new world or fantasy setting, or put me directly in the story that couldn't happen in real life. All of that aside, I should also state that I don't particularly do well with characters who are negative, pessimistic, or depressed. As someone who has been through and continues to go through bouts of depression, I can sort of understand where show more Jane was coming from. (Even though she blames it as a disorder passed down from her father's side) Though no matter how dark, I've never let it get to the point of even thinking about taking my own life—choosing other outlets such as writing to channel my frustrations and built up emotions instead. That is where I could not really identify with Jane. But, it exists. It exists and it's unfortunate that some people think that taking their lives is the last sensible option, when it isn't.
Why read it, then? You may ask. Well, that answer is simple. From the synopsis I gathered that this "negative" Jane would evolve as a character, which she did. That is what drew me in. Well, that and the plot line. A suicidal girl being one of the two survivors of a plane crash and forced to fight for her life when put in the circumstance. Heck yes. Talk about ironic gold! Though, while I was waiting for a moment to be swept into the story, I was left standing by the shore until the last few pages, which were heart-wrenching and beautiful. (My emotions!!! ; Community fans will get it.) There were a lot of parts I loved, and some I just couldn't feel much for. Among those I loved was Paul. Just read and you'll see why.
Nevertheless, Alex Morel can write one heck of a realistic novel! And while I would have loved a little more of the "survival" factor, it still made for a great read. I'm sure that others who are more into the realism feel will love this book a little more than I did, because the premise and story are awesome! Definitely interested in seeing more from this author!
Overall thought: While this book is light and easy flowing, it packs a pretty powerful punch. Keep your gloves up! *ding, ding, ding!* show less
Jane has a plan, and you're not invited. It's only her, and her decision alone, thank you very much. While on break from being treated at a rehabilitation center for her suicidal tendencies, Jane plots out a way she can finally do the deed. Though she enters the plane alive at take off, she won't be living when it touches down. Or so she thinks. When the plane crashes there is only one other survivor. A boy named Paul, and together the two must do all they can to survive against the harsh snowy backdrop.
Perhaps this wasn't the best novel for me to read, given that I am not one who usually fancies books that steer away from the "fiction/fantasy" aspect and are too "realistic." No. I choose to read mostly fantasy novels (meaning novels that aren't JUST sci-fi, but with other aspects like H.E.A. or interesting twists and inversions on everyday life) simply for the fact that I love to read and escape. I've talked about this before on my blog and on my youtube channel. When I read books, I am after the escapeism factor. One to lead me away from the troubles of my own life for a few hours a day and envelop me into a new world or fantasy setting, or put me directly in the story that couldn't happen in real life. All of that aside, I should also state that I don't particularly do well with characters who are negative, pessimistic, or depressed. As someone who has been through and continues to go through bouts of depression, I can sort of understand where show more Jane was coming from. (Even though she blames it as a disorder passed down from her father's side) Though no matter how dark, I've never let it get to the point of even thinking about taking my own life—choosing other outlets such as writing to channel my frustrations and built up emotions instead. That is where I could not really identify with Jane. But, it exists. It exists and it's unfortunate that some people think that taking their lives is the last sensible option, when it isn't.
Why read it, then? You may ask. Well, that answer is simple. From the synopsis I gathered that this "negative" Jane would evolve as a character, which she did. That is what drew me in. Well, that and the plot line. A suicidal girl being one of the two survivors of a plane crash and forced to fight for her life when put in the circumstance. Heck yes. Talk about ironic gold! Though, while I was waiting for a moment to be swept into the story, I was left standing by the shore until the last few pages, which were heart-wrenching and beautiful. (My emotions!!! ; Community fans will get it.) There were a lot of parts I loved, and some I just couldn't feel much for. Among those I loved was Paul. Just read and you'll see why.
Nevertheless, Alex Morel can write one heck of a realistic novel! And while I would have loved a little more of the "survival" factor, it still made for a great read. I'm sure that others who are more into the realism feel will love this book a little more than I did, because the premise and story are awesome! Definitely interested in seeing more from this author!
Overall thought: While this book is light and easy flowing, it packs a pretty powerful punch. Keep your gloves up! *ding, ding, ding!* show less
3.5 stars
As soon as I heard the synopsis of this book I knew I wanted to read it, in fact I featured it on my blog for a WOW (waiting on wednesday) post back when I first heard about it. I had very high expectations of this book after reading the synopsis. The fact that this suicidal girl leaves the "nut house" for christmas break due to good behavior and plans on killing herself while the plane is in the air completely intrigued me. The plane instead crashes, and only her and a boy her age survive and suddenely all she wants is to live and get off this snow covered mountain.
I've always loved "survival of the fittest" type books. Hatchet was one of the books growing up that really got me into reading in the first place, and one of my favorite Young Adult series is The Ashfall series by Mike Mullin, both of which are survival type stories. I guess in the end I was a bit let down. I really wanted to connect to Jane's story and felt that she had a wall up so that I couldn't really connect with her, and same goes for Paul. I wanted more drama on the mountain and was looking for more obstacles I guess. I felt like everything, (food, water, clothing) came too easiley for them and I wanted to see more of a struggle. I also felt like their characters fell into the trap of the YA "insta-love". I do believe that being the only two survivors of a plane crash and going through something that tramatic together would ultimately lead to feelings developing but I just felt like it show more happened way too quickly to be real or believeable.
I did enjoy certain aspects of this book for sure, and it was a quick read, but ultimately I wanted more from the story and more development that lacked a bit for me. Would I still say this book is worth a read? Yes. without a doubt, but I think personally I had my expectations set too high and it resulted in a bit of a let-down for me. show less
As soon as I heard the synopsis of this book I knew I wanted to read it, in fact I featured it on my blog for a WOW (waiting on wednesday) post back when I first heard about it. I had very high expectations of this book after reading the synopsis. The fact that this suicidal girl leaves the "nut house" for christmas break due to good behavior and plans on killing herself while the plane is in the air completely intrigued me. The plane instead crashes, and only her and a boy her age survive and suddenely all she wants is to live and get off this snow covered mountain.
I've always loved "survival of the fittest" type books. Hatchet was one of the books growing up that really got me into reading in the first place, and one of my favorite Young Adult series is The Ashfall series by Mike Mullin, both of which are survival type stories. I guess in the end I was a bit let down. I really wanted to connect to Jane's story and felt that she had a wall up so that I couldn't really connect with her, and same goes for Paul. I wanted more drama on the mountain and was looking for more obstacles I guess. I felt like everything, (food, water, clothing) came too easiley for them and I wanted to see more of a struggle. I also felt like their characters fell into the trap of the YA "insta-love". I do believe that being the only two survivors of a plane crash and going through something that tramatic together would ultimately lead to feelings developing but I just felt like it show more happened way too quickly to be real or believeable.
I did enjoy certain aspects of this book for sure, and it was a quick read, but ultimately I wanted more from the story and more development that lacked a bit for me. Would I still say this book is worth a read? Yes. without a doubt, but I think personally I had my expectations set too high and it resulted in a bit of a let-down for me. show less
On a flight home for Christmas holidays from the mental hospital from where she has been living, Jane decides to commit suicide. Her father did years ago and Jane feels that there is no other way for her.
Just as she starts to swallow the pills that will end her life when the plane crashes into the snow covered mountains leaving her alive and freezing. There is one other survivor, Paul, and the two of them face the task of finding their way off the mountains that threaten to end their lives. Jane really does not want to die and a friendship blossoms between the two, a friendship that will survive the mountains.
Just as she starts to swallow the pills that will end her life when the plane crashes into the snow covered mountains leaving her alive and freezing. There is one other survivor, Paul, and the two of them face the task of finding their way off the mountains that threaten to end their lives. Jane really does not want to die and a friendship blossoms between the two, a friendship that will survive the mountains.
This wasn't bad, but It lacked a back story. I don't think that Jane's explanation for wanting to commit suicide was credible enough - that her father and grandmother had chosen to die that way. Really? And the romance did not ring true. All in all the characters were not strong enough to drive the plot.
Booklist, September 1, 2012
Ratings
