The Last American Man

Elizabeth Gilbert

This is a biography of a very unique man, Eustace Conway, who has lived in the Appalachian Mountains, near Boone, NC (and in fact had land dealings with David Kaplan which were mentioned in this book) and who has recreated the lifestyle of frontier living. Conway is truly unique, and there is no way I can even begin to describe his many attributes and complexities. The book is fascinating and will keep any reader fully engaged. This is a story about a totally unique man who is incredibly skilled and unbelievably complex. Gilbert obviously admires him, but she does not shy away from revealing his many faults. This is one very unique slice of life that is worth tasting.

Review by Len Oppenheim