Out of the Forest

The true story of a recluse

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Out of the Forest

By: Gregory Smith

Narrated by: Dean Friske

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About this listen

What makes a man turn his back on society? What makes him return?

For ten years a man calling himself Will Power lived in near-total isolation in northern New South Wales, foraging for food, eating bats and occasionally trading for produce. But who was this mysterious man who roamed the forest and knew all of its secrets and riddles? Some people thought he might be Jesus. Others feared he was a more sinister figure.

The truth was that he was neither miraculous nor malevolent, but he was, most certainly, gifted. And when he finally emerged from the forest, emaciated and close to death, he was determined to reclaim his real name and ‘give society another chance’.

Today, Dr Gregory Peel Smith, who left school at the age of fourteen, has a PhD and teaches in the Social Sciences at university. His profoundly touching and uplifting memoir is at once a unique insight into how far off track a life can go and powerful reminder that we can all find our way back if we pause for a moment in the heart of the forest.©2018 Gregory Smith (P)2018 Penguin Random House Australia

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Editorial reviews

Dr. Gregory Peel Smith now boasts a PhD and teaches social sciences at university. But his journey to success was neither straightforward nor simple. Born into an abusive household in the 1950s, Smith found himself descending into a life of petty crime, substance abuse, depression and homelessness. At that low point, he wandered into a forest in Northern NSW and did not emerge until over a decade later.

This audio memoir, brought to life by talented narrator Dean Friske, will tug hard at your heartstrings and bring a fresh understanding of a forgotten generation of Australians. Smith’s story of living off the land in near-total isolation under the moniker 'Will Power' offers incredible insight into how far off-track a life can go...and how the human spirit can always find its way back.

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This honest, raw recount of Gregory’s life was so enthralling I talked about it with my family along the way. An emotional book that illustrates all people are worthy of respect no matter where they come from. Congratulations Henson!!