The Last Frontier

Alaska is called the last frontier by some because it’s the wildest, most untouched place that’s part of America. Shed some light on its mystery by checking out the books below. Remember this is a creative eye on the state and not a school geography text book approach.

If you think one of the books below doesn’t belong here, let me know your thoughts. Or if you’d like to add a book of your own, submit your suggestion. The book doesn’t need to be explicitly about the state, only clearly set in it and written by someone who actually lived there. I have a bias towards books written by authors who are still living so that we can reflect more on Alaska today but I won’t turn down a classic if you make a good argument for it!

Books are in no order of preference. That they are on this list is not a reflection of my personal taste or even that I’ve read them — I want you to find what works for you.

The Alaskan Laundry by Brendan Jones, fiction

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Of Bears and Ballots: An Alaskan Adventure in Small-Town Politics by Heather Lende, memoir

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A Cold Day for Murder by Dana Stabenow, mystery / crime

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Find the Good: Unexpected Life Lessons from a Small-Town Obituary Writer by Heather Lende, memoir / essays

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If you Lived Here, I’d Know Your Name: News from Small-Town Alaska by Heather Lende, memoir / essays

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The Raven’s Gift by Don Rearden, fiction

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The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey, historical fiction / magical realism

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The Whale and the Cupcake: Stories of Subsistence, Longing, and Community in Alaska by Julia O’Malley, non-fiction / food

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Photo credit: Erick Tujac