Timothy Eastman, All the past we leave behind. Heidelberg, Germany: Kehrer, 2022. ISBN: 9783969000922.
This is a beautiful and at times moving photography book documenting the lives of workampers. A workamper is defined as:
"A person, typically living in an RV or van, who works usually seasonal or temporary jobs around the United States."
The author states this book is inspired by Jessica Bruder's book Nomadland. I've had Bruder's book on my TBR list for a while, so when this new book came along I was intrigued. From that inspiration, the author went forth interviewing and photographing a diverse sampling of American workampers. Most of them are White people; very few are people of color.
Contrary to common belief, bad economic conditions did not force many of them to become workampers. Some chose the lifestyle as a form of retirement. Others chose it for the freedom to travel and see different places, and others chose it as a way to minimize and simplify life. Their reasons to do this are diverse. "Most insisted that workamping was a life they had chosen out of opportunity rather than necessity."
Strength of the book is in the large color photos. The author photographs people as well as their dwellings and places they travel. These can be very touching images at times. The images are also very humane, catching different moments in the subjects' lives.
As for the text, the author pretty much let's the people speak for themselves. Though some common elements emerge, their stories are also very individual. Through their stories they welcome us into their homes and give us a small glimpse into their lives.
For me, this book was powerful and moving. Once you start reading and looking over the photos, it draws you in. I recommend this book for readers who enjoy photography and Americana books. Recommended for all libraries. It may seem a simple book, but it is a powerful book. For me, one of the best reads this year.
5 out of 5 stars.