Shelfology Book Pairing

The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit

by Michael Finkel

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.

A Novel

by Agustina María Bazterrica

"Working at the local processing plant, Marcos is in the business of slaughtering humans--though no one calls them that anymore. First an infectious virus made all animal meat poisonous to humans. Then governments initiated the "Transition." Now, eating "special meat" is legal. Then one day he is given a live specimen of the finest quality. Though aware that any form of personal contact is forbidden on pain of death, little by little Marcos starts to treat her like a human being. And soon, he becomes tortured by what has been lost--and what might still be saved"--Adapted from front flap