A whole generation of older Americans, out of stable work, and with little or nothing to retire on, are taking to the roads, living a nomadic itinerant existence rather than succumb to abject poverty or homelessness. This book is about those Americans and the conditions the caused this phenomenon. About how despite, or perhaps because, this country is the richest in the world, an ever growing number of its people, despite being intelligent, frugal, and hardworking are finding it nearly impossible to live. While the nomads in this book are a fascinating, optimistic sort and make for compelling reading, the conditions underlying their freer new way of life are always just below the surface, threatening to destroy them. It’s inspiring and entertaining to read about Linda May’s “can do” attitude and resourcefulness, until you remember this college educated woman who’s worked hard her whole life should have other options besides tedious seasonal jobs in an Amazon warehouse to see her through her golden years.

This book is both an optimistic love letter to the human spirit as well as a scathing critique of just how cruel and senselessly our economic institutions are structured. Though the nomads themselves might not see it, or acknowledge it, the author is deeply aware of how despite all the benefits of nomadic living, choosing into this life as an alternative to traditional homelessness or worse is hardly a choice.