The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit
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Book Overview
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER - The remarkable true story of a man who lived alone in the woods of Maine for 27 years, making this dream a reality--not out of anger at the world, but simply because he preferred to live on his own. "A meditation on solitude, wildness and survival." --The Wall Street Journal
In 1986, a shy and intelligent twenty-year-old named Christopher Knight left his home in Massachusetts, drove to Maine, and disappeared into the forest. He would not have a conversation with another human being until nearly three decades later, when he was arrested for stealing food. Living in a tent even through brutal winters, he had survived by his wits and courage, developing ingenious ways to store edibles and water, and to avoid freezing to death. He broke into nearby cottages for food, clothing, reading material, and other provisions, taking only what he needed but terrifying a community never able to solve the mysterious burglaries. Based on extensive interviews with Knight himself, this is a vividly detailed account of his secluded life--why did he leave? what did he learn?--as well as the challenges he has faced since returning to the world. It is a gripping story of survival that asks fundamental questions about solitude, community, and what makes a good life, and a deeply moving portrait of a man who was determined to live his own way, and succeeded.
In 1986, a shy and intelligent twenty-year-old named Christopher Knight left his home in Massachusetts, drove to Maine, and disappeared into the forest. He would not have a conversation with another human being until nearly three decades later, when he was arrested for stealing food. Living in a tent even through brutal winters, he had survived by his wits and courage, developing ingenious ways to store edibles and water, and to avoid freezing to death. He broke into nearby cottages for food, clothing, reading material, and other provisions, taking only what he needed but terrifying a community never able to solve the mysterious burglaries. Based on extensive interviews with Knight himself, this is a vividly detailed account of his secluded life--why did he leave? what did he learn?--as well as the challenges he has faced since returning to the world. It is a gripping story of survival that asks fundamental questions about solitude, community, and what makes a good life, and a deeply moving portrait of a man who was determined to live his own way, and succeeded.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:1101911530
ISBN13:9781101911532
Release Date:January 2018
Publisher:Vintage
Length:224 Pages
Weight:0.56 lbs.
Dimensions:0.6" x 5.2" x 7.9"
Customer Reviews
3 ratings
disgusted and disappointed
Published by Rennie , 5 months ago
This book is an ode to an extremely selfish man who steals from those with disabilties, seems to think he is clever because he gets away with his thievery for so long. A sad story, really, nothing to do with the joys of the wilderness. Very disappointed.
A very interesting and informative story!
Published by Misty , 11 months ago
I read the book within a couple days and was enthralled with the story. Informative about three three categories of hermits. Felt for this man and what his life turned out to be. Would recommend to anyone who might want to know something about hermits.
Story About A Man who Couldn’t Take Society
Published by PaxInGarden , 4 years ago
Interesting take on a homeless man who couldn’t live in the regular world.
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