Do you think Krakauer includes the Ruess’ story to emphasize his similarity with McCandless, or his differences?

Everett Ruess is a twenty year old born in 1914, who is intensely passionate about nature, and spends almost all of his time after he is sixteen on the move in a very similar manner to McCandless. He eventually disappears without a trace in Utah.

Like Reuss, McCandless leaves his family for extended periods as a young man. Both young men develop close friendships with complete strangers, who become mentors. Chris and Everett both change their names, write about their experiences, and send letters to their siblings.