A Long Way from Anywhere

Living Off-Grid in the American West

By: Norah Esty

Narrated by: Lee Ann Howlett

In A Long Way from Anywhere: Living Off-Grid in the American West, Norah Esty shares her unexpected journey from a math prodigy and tenured professor to a homesteader in the remote wilds of Eastern Oregon. After earning her Ph.D. at U.C. Berkeley and securing a comfortable academic career in Boston, Norah and her husband Jim stunned everyone—including themselves—by abandoning urban life for an off-grid existence. Inspired by authors like Michael Pollan and Wendell Berry, they traded their city condo for a rural homestead, despite having no plan, homesteading experience, or background in rural living.

With enthusiasm as their guide, Norah and Jim quickly learned the challenges of living off-grid. From raising livestock to butchering rabbits, operating tractors to troubleshooting generators, every day brought new lessons and unexpected hardships. Life in the wilderness offered moments of wonder—wolves howling in the hills, mountain lions crossing through snow—but also stark realities, like dealing with predators and the isolation of being far from medical help. Through it all, Norah reflects on the joys and perils of off-grid living, offering a candid, insightful look at the challenges of leaving behind the familiar to embrace the unknown.

©2025 Norah Esty (P)2025 Norah Esty

I loved this story of courage, honesty, and humor

Norah Esty's memoir A Long Way from Anywhere is an account of the decision made by Esty and her husband to leave their comfortable city life to fend for themselves in Eastern Oregon. Esty ends her academic career in Cambridge, MA - along with the creature comforts she takes for granted (like heat and local services) - in order to grow their own food, raise livestock, and fend off unexpected visitors like bears and coyotes. The story is beautifully written and full of excitement, touching moments, and humor. I loved it!