Alaska Book Club, Review of “Two Old Women”
Two Old Women by Velma Wallis is described as “An Alaska Legend of betrayal, courage and survival.” It is a highly recommended read before any adventure in Alaska. It is a beautiful story based on an Athabascan legend that draws you into the lives of two brave women who surprise themselves and their tribe. Wallis is direct in the way that she describes the loyalty of the people, the harsh tribal rules and rituals, and the brutality of survival. She also paints a clear and emotional picture in our minds of the terrible beauty of the landscape as well as the reflective and vulnerable nature of the two old women. These women suddenly have no choices. They are thrown into what seems to be an impossible situation and they are completely alone. In the process of supporting one another and pushing forward, they are transformed. By the end of the story, we are also transformed by their sheer determination. The two old women are models of tenacity, bravery, and love.
This novella gives travelers to Alaska a rich understanding of the indigenous peoples of Alaska, their complex history, and their traditions. It reminds travelers of the harsh reality of a region of extremes and aligns us perfectly with an understanding of the kind of strength and confidence needed to navigate brutal conditions. We might feel small in the greatness of this Alaska, but embracing its’ amazing depth and beauty allows us to breathe deeply and to be present.
Yesterday when I went for a cross-country ski here in Alaska. I felt carefree and happy as I stepped into my bindings for the first time since last year. But conditions were different than I anticipated. It was harsh and I was disappointed and frustrated. The result was that I felt that I had lost strength, and with it, some confidence in my abilities. It was difficult and slippery and I was unstable on my feet. I started to wonder if I was too old for skiing… maybe? As I struggled to regulate my distress, I remembered the two old women from this story. Instead of giving up, I decided to forge ahead, one foot in front of the other.
Their experiences reminded me to humbly embrace the unpredictability of Alaska and to remember my own strength. And so, I pressed on, feeling a little lonely, even though I was not alone. Eventually, (sweaty and tired) I found purchase in the new fallen snow and took a few successful laps. The rhythm finally took hold and I was skiing as I had last winter, smoothly, steadily, and with joy! I was able to look up and see the snow twinkling in the sunlight and the vast beauty of Kincaid Park. I feel grateful that I recently re-read “Two Old Women” and how, in retrospect, it affected my attitude and stick-to-it-iveness in that situation.
Two Old Women is a great, short, easy-to-read book! It is relatable and very Alaskan. We encourage you to pick up this book to read before, during, or even after your trip to Alaska. If you react to it the way we did, you may find yourself buying copies for your family and friends. It is available in hardback, paperback and on Kindle.
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This blog post was written by Cathleen M. & Lynne J
