North to the Night: A Spiritual Odyssey in the Arctic

I was so very appreciative of the authors attempts to give the reader insight into the native peoples who endure in such a difficult and bleak setting. It is so refreshing to see into the lives of people so adapted to their environment, and living so harmoniously with nature. I hope that the infringemnet of modern living, doesn't leave it's indelable footprint on the culture of these wonderful people. A good book, and really remarkable adventure.


Great Adventure, so-so on the Spiritual Journey   January 7, 2002
J. Brad Jensen (Franklin, TN USA)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

Perhaps the subtitle "A spiritual odyssey..." made me expect more than I should or perhaps I'm a little too critical but I was disappointed with the introspection we get to witness Alvah Simon's book.

Let me start by saying the adventure story is worth twice the price of the book. ... This part alone will leave you shaking your head, wondering what kind of madman he must be!

I think it is precisely that "madman" that is intriguing and I bought the book hoping to learn what someone who spent months alone thought about and learned. In our typical hectic lives, getting an hour alone to ourselves, much less months, is difficult. My expectations were high that I would learn something of particular spiritual value. Unfortunately, while I think Mr. Simon must have had a very spiritual adventure, I was left feeling that he just scratched the surface in describing the thoughts and insights he had during the long, dark months.

Buy this book for the adventure and the harrowing experiences but keep your expectations moderately low for truly seeing the "spiritual odyessy".


Excellent reading   August 30, 2001
3 out of 3 found this review helpful

I found this account of Alvah and Diana Simon's year in the artic both exciting and frightening. I was unable to put this novel down as I wondered what would happen to Alvah next. The glimpse into his grueling 5 months alone in the darkness of the artic will keep you reading on and on. He is very honest and open about the mental status of being left alone in this type of situation for that long of a period. I personally found the information on how the Intuit live and survive was very interesting and informative. I recommend this book strongly.


A vivid and modern adventure   June 22, 2001
Craig Matteson (Ann Arbor, MI)
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

I loved this book. It is just weird enough to keep me wondering and yet it is real enough for me to identify with the author's need to test himself. He conveys the weight of his struggles when he gets in over his head well enough to make my chest tighten. His writing is moving and vivid if not beautiful.

I have shared my copy with several friends and urge everyone to take a night or two off to set sail with Mr. Simon and his sweetheart. Almost every time I pass my globe I still look at the island neat where he spent the winter and shake my head. I have spent a few nights outside in a tent and sleeping bag in weather ten below farenheit, but I can't imagine attempting something this weird and yet something so wonderful.