Final answer:
Alex McCandless, the subject of Jon Krakauer's 'Into the Wild,' always carried a book with him, reflecting his love for literature and desire for intellectual engagement.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer, Ronald Franz mentions that Alex McCandless, also known as Alexander Supertramp, always carried with him a book of some kind, often a work of literature. McCandless was a passionate reader, and his love for books was a significant characteristic depicted in Krakauer's narrative.
In the wilds of Alaska, where he sought to test himself against nature and live off the land, McCandless's practice of carrying literature with him illustrates his desire for intellectual stimulation and reflection, even while physically challenging himself in the most extreme conditions.