The Stranger in the Woods
Summary:
Many people dream of escaping modern life, but most will never act on it. This is 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.
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. (Summary and cover courtesy of goodreads.com)
Review:
This book would get a higher ranking because it was compelling and fascinating read, but I have to say as a warning: throughout the book we find out that Finkel contacted Knight several times after requesting peace, including showing up at his family home when they had made it clear that they didn’t want to talk to him. After learning all that I was left with a bit of an “ick” feeling and downgraded it to 3 stars. After all, Knight’s desire for privacy is what prompted him to disappear from the world. Yet, without that transparency, it would have been bumped to 4-stars. He does have “notes on reporting” reporting at the end which tries to address some of these concerns, but mixed feelings. Choose how to proceed as you wish!
We have two main narratives throughout this book, one is about Knight himself, the other is about survival skills and other famous hermits. Christopher Knight is a fascinating person to follow along and Finkel’s description of the Maine woods fulfilled some wonderful couch adventure cravings. It is truly impressive that Knight didn’t get significantly sick, or caught, with how long he lived in isolation. I found myself rooting for him even as much as I was a little unnerved. I’d recommend this for those intrigued by the premise – it’s a quick read and easy to do in a single sitting!
Rating: 3 stars!
Who should read it? Folks interested in stories about outdoor survival.