by Jackie Knott (Author)
Smokey is a portrayal of a man who triumphed over debilitating obstacles that would have buried most people. Herbert Glen Irwin, or as he was called, "Smokey," was a complex and troubled soul. He suffered from Asperger's Syndrome, or high functioning Autism. Smokey endured family estrangement, financial and professional disappointments, emotional instability, and addiction. Still, he was an accomplished inventor. By choice, Smokey lived in a metal building with a dirt floor without electricity or running water. No one knew he was a prolific inventor and manufacturer, a master machinist, a chemist, or a botanist. He was brilliant, evasive, and purposely concealed his activities from everybody. Smokey lived with his machines in solitude. Yet, he lived a successful life, wealthy, and self-sufficient to the end.