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. A New York Times bestseller 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.
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"Borrowed this cd set from the library. It is well written, well read, and quite thought provoking, as well as just plain entertaining. I am buying a copy to give as a gift. It really is enjoyable, and it is a true story. "
— Gryphon (5 out of 5 stars)
“A fascinating story, great writing, and strong narration come together in this audiobook…Through research and narrative, the author tells a story about a type of person few of us understand. And Mark Bramhall really brings it alive. He narrates in a straightforward, clear voice from the author’s perspective, but when he quotes Knight, he uses a spot-on Maine accent with nary a misstep. As a result, listeners can easily imagine themselves in the Maine woods, where Knight lived for almost thirty years.”
— AudioFile“With a subtle Down-easter accent and documentary-like reportage, Bramhall captures the author’s curiosity and Christopher Knight’s quiet humanity in a performance as unobtrusive as the hermit himself.”
— RUSA Juried Committee“Finkel delves into thorny issues such as Knight’s potential mental state, the truth of his claims (which are disputed by locals), and the deeper meaning of solitude, individuality, and personal freedom.”
— Library JournalMichael Finkel is the author of several nonfiction books, including the New York Times bestsellers The Stranger in the Woods and The Art Thief.
Mark Bramhall has won the prestigious Audie Award for best narration, more than thirty AudioFile Earphones Awards, and has repeatedly been named by AudioFile magazine and Publishers Weekly among their “Best Voices of the Year.” He is also an award-winning actor whose acting credits include off-Broadway, regional, and many Los Angeles venues as well as television, animation, and feature films. He has taught and directed at the American Academy of Dramatic Art.