Many of us dream of kissing the chaos of modern civilization goodbye, yet most never do. “The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit,” by Michael Finkel, details the experiences of one such recluse.
In 1986, Christopher Knight, a shy and inquisitive kid from a loving family, disappeared into the Maine woods for 27 years, seen only once in that time by an unsuspecting group of hikers.
During his disappearance, Knight became the stuff of legend. He relied on his wits and burgled supplies from seasonal cottages to survive brutal winters in his trusty tent. “The North Pond Hermit,” as he became known, was feared by some and cheered by others, as he continued to elude attempts of capture.
Author Michael Finkel extensively interviewed Knight after he was finally arrested and imprisoned for more than a thousand counts of burglary. This is the story of a man who was determined to march to his own drum and who won the hearts of many in the process. If you’re a sucker for tales of survival and solitude, then “The Stranger in the Woods” is definitely worth a read.
— Keena KimmelOwner of White Rabbit Books and Curiousities
