Peter Rock: My Abandonment

A thirteen-year-old girl and her father live in Forest Park, the enormous nature preserve in Portland, Oregon. There they inhabit an elaborate cave shelter, bathe in a nearby creek, store perishables at the waters edge, use a makeshift septic system, tend a garden, even keep a library of sorts. Once a week, they go to the city to buy groceries and otherwise merge with the civilized world. But one small mistake allows a backcountry jogger to discover them, which derails their entire existence, ultimately provoking a deeper flight. Inspired by a true story and told through the startlingly sincere voice of a young narrator, Caroline, Peter Rock's My Abandonment is a riveting journey into life at the margins, and a mesmerizing tale of survival and hope.

Category:

Entertainment

Tags:

• books
• fiction

[craigslistcyclist]

@nursebabe1 thanks for ruining the book for me

[nursebabe1]

This book was excellent. I felt emotional after reading how the father died. I hated that part

[QuiChiYang2]

Frank and Ruth have the right approach to living a good life, Frank is a good father, Ruth an upstanding daughter. Together they have made the best of a seemingly difficult situation (living in and under societies demands) and erked their fair share from nature. What is amazing is the relationship and respect they have for one another. I wish they would come out and do a lecture circuit or write a book about their experiences, cause I would buy it in a heartbeat.

[lynhay05]

I just finished Peter's book and 'verklimpt' says it better than I could. I devoured it in a couple of sittings and already I know it will resonate in me for a good time to come.

[Dreamloka]

I loved your book.

It was artfully written and I look forward to your next novel.

[verklimpt]

This book affected me deeply. Peter's writing takes it to a depth that isnt obvious from simple descriptions of the events. the author has a remarkable gift. im surprised by how many people (on amazon) just didnt get it. Speaking as Caroline, Rock seems to actually become her. besides the poetic genius here i really appreciate that he attributes such resiliency and self reliance to a female character. stunning book.

[mtnheather]

I found the basis of this novel rather ironic. I very soon, may not be able to provide a house for my boys and our dogs. I can't find a job after working without an interim, since I was 14. I have access to some land, all of the gear needed & the experience to pull it off until I can secure employment. I hesitate though, as I don't want to cause any harm to my boys. I am simply struggling to find a viable option & running short on time. I wonder how many others are in a similiar position....

[dragonflydreaming]

Peter, this book was humbling. It made me want to take another look at my life and streamline it. You write exquisitely. This was the book I wish I could have written.

[skemptastic]

fierce!

[beagile]

Love the jacket with the one-sided collar.