The author delves into the mystery of why a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, whose mature novels were both well reviewed and widely read, disappeared so rapidly from critical and popular notice. He considers his subject one of the major novelists of the twentieth century, certain that in the eyes of history Cozzens will be seen as the consummately skilled, uniquely American, brilliantly creative writer that this prodigiously researched biography vividly and convincingly portrays.--Provided by publisher.

In this short novel Mr. Cozzens has constructed a modern parable of the Robinson Crusoe tale, one with powerful implications for the survival of modern man. Beyond doubt an interesting and distinguished piece of work. —Times Literary Supplement.