My latest book, Solitude and Splendor: Living in the

Schoolhouse, is the story of how I followed my dream of

living alone in the forest. As I lived simply and close to the

trees, snow, bugs and mountains, I thrived in my

handyperson’s special of an old, one-room schoolhouse in

the rugged wilderness of western Maine. Without

electricity, a phone or running water, I was able to walk

back in time away from the chaotic modern world. I was

spellbound by the amazing power of the forest to reveal

itself to me in joy and wonder through the ever-changing

drama of the seasons. Solitude and Splendor presents a

vivid account of the challenges I overcame as I sought a

different way to live as an antidote to the 24/7 speeded up,

multi-tasking character of today’s world.  I survived the

cold and a chimney fire, bonded with bats and mice, and

followed my artistic inspiration during this transformative

adventure in my forest home. Solitude and Splendor

celebrates the richness and beauty of nature as I was so

privileged to feel it and as I learned that peace can come

from having the time to savor everyday joys. Solitude and

Splendor: Living in the Schoolhouse by Maria Termini can

be purchased from www.amazon.com