What was Burres's assessment of McCandless's ability to survive in Alaska?

• A. She told him that he need knives
• B. Maybe trade them down the road
• C. Accept some long underwear and warm clothing
• D. She was concerned but thought he would be fine in the end due to this past experiences

Answer: (D)

The idea being tested is how Burres views Chris’s ability to handle the Alaska wilderness: she’s worried about the danger, but she believes his past experiences and independent nature give him a fighting chance. Burres had watched Chris grow into someone who could rely on himself and think on his feet, which makes her feel that, despite the risks, he might manage in the end. The other options miss that nuanced mix of concern and faith in his self-reliance. She isn’t focused on gear or bargains; she’s expressing a balanced outlook: caution about the environment, tempered by the conviction that his previous experiences could help him endure.