Chapter 17 Guided Reading Questions

What is the author's primary reason for standing on the opposite bank of the Teklanika River, trying to cross it?

• a) To prove that crossing the river is impossible

• b) To visit the bus where McCandless died

• c) To escape from his companions

• d) To conduct a geological survey of the area

Why is it unthinkable to ford the river at the time of the author's visit?

• a) The water is too deep, too cold, and too fast.

• b) There are no topographic maps available.

• c) The river is frozen solid.

• d) McCandless has warned against it.

How does the author's situation differ from McCandless's?

• a) The author is alone, while McCandless had companions.

• b) The author has a topographic map, while McCandless did not.

• c) The author has more supplies.

• d) The author has no intention of visiting the bus.

What purpose did the gauging station by the river serve?

• a) To provide shelter for hikers

• b) To measure the river's depth

• c) To observe wildlife in the area

• d) To offer a resting place for travelers

Why couldn't McCandless cross the Teklanika River when he attempted to leave the bus?

• a) He was physically too weak to attempt the crossing.

• b) He lacked the proper equipment.

• c) He didn't know about the cable and basket that could have facilitated the crossing.

• d) The river was frozen at the time.

According to Andy Horowitz, what did Chris McCandless seek when he came to Alaska?

• a) Adventure and freedom

• b) A map of uncharted territory

• c) Civilized society

• d) Wealth and luxury

Why did Chris McCandless remove his map from his possessions?

• a) He wanted to lighten his backpack.

• b) He believed that getting rid of the map would make the wilderness uncharted.

• c) He gave it to someone he met on his journey.

• d) He lost the map during his travels.

What crucial item for survival does the author lack when he crosses the river to visit the bus?

What significant animal remains did the author find at the bus site?

Why do some critics compare Chris McCandless to Sir John Franklin?

• a) Both starved to death in the wilderness.

• b) Both were known for their humility.

• c) Both were highly skilled wilderness experts.

• d) Both were military officers.