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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
The Call of the Wild summary
Jack London
Paper Mill Press
Brief summary
The Call of the Wild by Jack London is a classic adventure novel that tells the story of Buck, a domestic dog who is kidnapped and sold into sled dog service in the Yukon. It portrays the harsh life of a dog in the wild and explores themes of survival and primal instincts.
Table of Contents
The Call of the Wild
Summary of key ideas
Early Life and Influences
Jack London, born John Griffith Chaney, on January 12, 1876, in San Francisco, California, was an American author and journalist. His mother, Flora Wellman, was a music teacher and spiritualist, and his father, William Chaney, was an astrologer. London's parents were never married, and he was raised by his mother and her subsequent husband, John London, a Civil War veteran.
London's early life was marked by poverty and hardship. He worked various odd jobs to help support his family, and his experiences during this time would later influence his writing. Despite his challenging circumstances, London was an avid reader and a self-taught individual, who spent much of his free time in public libraries, educating himself.
Adventurous Spirit and Early Career
London's adventurous spirit led him to take on various jobs, including working in a cannery, as an oyster pirate, and as a sailor. His experiences at sea and in the harsh working conditions of the time would later serve as the basis for many of his stories. In 1897, London joined the Klondike Gold Rush, but he returned to California empty-handed. However, his time in the Klondike provided him with material for his first stories.
London began his writing career in earnest after returning from the Klondike. He wrote about his experiences in the North and submitted his work to various magazines. His first story, To the Man on Trail, was published in The Overland Monthly in 1899. This marked the beginning of his successful career as a writer.
Success as an Author
London's early works were heavily influenced by his experiences in the Klondike and his socialist views. His stories often depicted the struggle for survival in the harsh wilderness and the exploitation of the working class. His first book, The Son of the Wolf, a collection of short stories based on his time in the Klondike, was published in 1900 and was well-received.
In 1903, London published one of his most famous works, The Call of the Wild, a novel that tells the story of a domesticated dog's journey to the wild. The book was an instant success and solidified London's reputation as a talented and popular author. This was followed by another well-received novel, White Fang, in 1906, which explored similar themes of survival and adaptation in the wilderness.
Later Life and Legacy
Despite his success, London's personal life was marked by turmoil. He married his first wife, Bessie Maddern, in 1900, but their marriage was strained due to London's heavy drinking and his numerous extramarital affairs. The couple had two daughters, Joan and Bessie. London's second marriage to Charmian Kittredge in 1905 was more stable, and she became his companion and editor.
London continued to write prolifically, producing novels, short stories, essays, and non-fiction works. He also became increasingly involved in socialist politics and was a vocal advocate for workers' rights and social reform. London's life was cut short when he died by suicide on November 22, 1916, at the age of 40. Despite his premature death, London left behind a significant literary legacy, with his works continuing to be widely read and studied for their vivid portrayal of the human condition and the natural world.
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What is The Call of the Wild about?
The Call of the Wild is a classic novel by Jack London that tells the story of Buck, a domestic dog who is stolen from his home and sold into the brutal life of an Alaskan sled dog. As Buck adapts to the harsh wilderness and learns to trust his instincts, he undergoes a transformation that brings out his primal nature. This gripping tale explores themes of survival, loyalty, and the untamed spirit of the wild.
The Call of the Wild Review
The Call of the Wild (1903) by Jack London, Paper Mill Press, takes readers on an exhilarating adventure into the wilds of the Alaskan landscape. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- Unearths the within us, as we follow the protagonist, Buck, on his journey from domesticity to the untamed wilderness.
- Shows the raw power of nature and the complex relationships between humans, animals, and the environment.
- Portrays Buck's transformation with , evoking empathy and leaving readers with a profound sense of wonder.
Who should read The Call of the Wild?
- Readers who enjoy adventure stories and tales of survival
- Those with a love for nature and the great outdoors
- Animal lovers who appreciate stories that explore the bond between humans and their animal companions
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The Call of the Wild FAQs
What is the main message of The Call of the Wild?
The main message of The Call of the Wild is the primal instinct within us and our capacity for adaptation and survival.
How long does it take to read The Call of the Wild?
The reading time for The Call of the Wild varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Call of the Wild a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Call of the Wild is a captivating read that explores the raw nature of humanity. It's definitely worth delving into for its intriguing story and themes.
Who is the author of The Call of the Wild?
The author of The Call of the Wild is Jack London.
What to read after The Call of the Wild?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Call of the Wild, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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