The Rapids by Alan Sullivan (1981)

Name: The Rapids
Author: Alan Sullivan

The Rapids by Alan Sullivan is a novel that explores the themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in life. The story follows the protagonist, Jack, as he navigates his way through a series of transformative experiences, including a near-death experience, a spiritual awakening, and a journey to Africa. Through these experiences, Jack comes to realize that his true identity is not defined by his physical body or his external circumstances, but rather by his inner self and his connection to the world around him. The novel is written in a lyrical and poetic style, with vivid descriptions of nature and a deep exploration of the human psyche. Sullivan's use of language creates a sense of immersion and intimacy, drawing the reader into Jack's inner world and inviting them to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs. Overall, The Rapids is a thought-provoking and deeply moving novel that challenges readers to question their assumptions about identity, belonging, and the meaning of life.

By Alan Sullivan · First published 1981 · Genre: Adventure, Historical, Action · 25 chapters · 101,239 words

First lines

Amongst the few who knew Robert Fisher Clark at all well, for there were not many of them, there was no question as to his beliefs. It was too obvious that his primary faith was in himself. Nor is it known whether, at any time, he gave any thought or study to the character of those with whom, in the course of his remarkably active life, he came into association. Always it appeared that there was laid upon him the responsibility of doing things which did not occur to the ordinary man, and he went about them with such supreme confidence and unremitting enthusiasm that he infused into his followers much of his communicable zeal. It appears now that Clark weighed a man by appraising the degree to which he contributed to the work in hand, and automatically set aside those whom he considered contributed nothing to his object. He was the most unattached personality it is possible to imagine. Whatever passion or reaction he may have experienced was always a matter for him alone, and something that he underwent in the remoteness of an astonishingly exclusive brain. That he experienced them is without doubt, but they were revealed in the intensity of action and the quick resiliency of renewed effort.

What this Textopian page supports

The Rapids is listed on Textopian as a novel by Alan Sullivan, dated 1981 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Alan Sullivan
Date: 1981 CE
Language: English
Genres: Adventure, Historical, Action, Drama
Length: 101,239 words
Structure: 25 chapters, 2,059 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Rapids?
How does this novel by Alan Sullivan fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Adventure first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Adventure — The book's central plot revolves around thrilling journeys and exploration of wilderness which aligns with the adventure genre.
Historical — The narrative takes place within the context of a historical era exploring social, political dynamics, hence it falls under the Historical genre.
Action — There are elements of physical bouts and risky undertakings common to the action genre within the book.
Drama — The book deals with intense emotional conflicts and character development that fit the drama genre.