Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors by Piers Paul Read

Summary

Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors by Piers Paul Read recounts the harrowing true story of a Uruguayan rugby team whose plane crashed in the Andes mountains in 1972. Stranded in subzero temperatures with limited supplies, the survivors were forced to make unthinkable choices, including resorting to cannibalism to stay alive. Through unyielding determination, cooperation, and hope, several of the crash victims struggled against insurmountable odds to find rescue. Read’s account is detailed, compassionate, and deeply thought-provoking, bringing to life one of the most astonishing survival stories of the twentieth century.

Life-Changing Lessons

1. The indomitable human spirit can endure even the most unimaginable circumstances when survival is at stake.

2. Cooperation, teamwork, and selflessness are crucial in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

3. The experience of extreme adversity can redefine moral boundaries and priorities, instilling a deeper appreciation for life and human connection.

Publishing year and rating

The book was published in: 1974

AI Rating (from 0 to 100): 95

Practical Examples

1. Building Shelter from the Wreckage

   The survivors used parts of the plane’s fuselage to construct makeshift shelters to protect themselves from the harsh, freezing temperatures and blizzard-like conditions. They innovated with limited materials, showing resourcefulness and adaptability despite their severe situation. This shelter became the hub of their efforts to survive, rest, and plan.

2. Forming a Survival Plan and Rationing Food

   Limited food supplies required careful rationing. The survivors initially lived off chocolate, wine, and whatever provisions they could salvage from the wreckage. They established rules and took turns distributing food to maximize their collective chances of survival, emphasizing fairness and self-discipline.

3. Coping with Death and Grief

   Tragically, several passengers died during and after the crash. The survivors had to confront grief, loss, and the psychological trauma of seeing friends and loved ones perish, often while sitting beside their bodies. This forced them to continually find meaning and hope despite overwhelming despair.

4. Deciding to Use the Bodies of the Deceased as Food

   After exhausting all other food sources, the survivors made the agonizing decision to use the bodies of those who had died to prevent starvation. This ethical dilemma tested their values but ultimately became a means of survival, reflecting the complexity of human morality under extreme conditions.

5. The Trek for Rescue

   Realizing that no help was coming, several survivors volunteered to trek across treacherous mountain terrain in search of civilization. Facing avalanches, altitude sickness, and sheer exhaustion, these brave individuals demonstrated incredible physical and mental endurance. Their courage and persistence eventually led to their rescue.

6. Supporting Each Other Emotionally

   Throughout their ordeal, the survivors leaned on one another emotionally, sharing stories, prayers, and encouragement. This camaraderie helped maintain morale and cohesion within the group, sustaining them during the darkest moments.

7. Innovation in Water Collection

   With almost no fresh water available, the group innovated by melting snow with makeshift solar devices created from metal and plastic found in the wreckage. Safe water was crucial to their survival, showcasing their ability to solve critical problems under pressure.

8. Dealing with Injury and Illness

   Many survivors suffered from injuries, frostbite, and malnutrition. They improvised medical care, fashioned splints, and monitored each other's health as best they could. This mutual support minimized suffering and prolonged survival for many group members.