A Hermit's Wild Friends; or, Eighteen Years in the Woods

"A Hermit's Wild Friends; or, Eighteen Years in the Woods" by Mason Augustus Walton is a memoir of nearly two decades spent in isolated harmony with nature, where the author chronicles his close observations of birds and other wildlife, offering readers a portrait of animal behavior and the intricacies of their natural habitats. Beginning with his transition from an ailing city resident to a revitalized hermit residing in the woods near Gloucester, Walton describes how he turned to the wilderness to heal, which led to dramatic improvements in his well-being. Settling into his life amidst trees and animals, Walton highlights the allure of nature, from his first encounters observing cowbirds and raccoons to his interactions with song sparrows, all suggesting themes of peaceful coexistence and the remarkable intelligence of animals. The book combines personal storytelling with detailed natural science, creating an admiring tribute to the beauty and complexity found within the natural world.