Ballentine had purchased his novel about Stuart's life, only 20 pages of which were complete, for $100,000.00. He rented and set about restoring the hut while writing the novel, moving into it to live—like Stuart—barefoot during its revision. Aftermath Even during Stuart's occupancy, the hut was often visited. Stuart, otherwise a hermit, kept a logbook signed by 1,200 guests, including Clarence Darrow. After the book was published, its readers began visiting the hut as well, with 2,000 people in one year signing the logbook left by Brewer, some spending the night inside. In 2006, the hut was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The novel has been optioned for a film and as of 2007 was in pre-production. The film is being produced by David Bushell, producer of Slingblade and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, with a screenplay adapted by Tom Epperson in collaboration with Brewer. Further reading Book review, Kirkus Reviews Book review, Library Journal Book review, Publishers Weekly References External links Interview with the author about the book, WBHM Author's website, including photographs of Stuart and Tolstoy Park Biographical novels 2005 American novels Novels set in Idaho Novels set in Alabama Fairhope, Alabama 2005 debut novels