Way Station

This is optimistic science fiction, and it has also been referred to as pastoral.

Shortly after the American Civil War, Enoch Wallace was selected to be the station keeper for a galactic relay located here on Earth. He only ages when he is outside the station, collecting the mail or tending his garden, so by the 1960s there are a few questions from the government and one of his Wisconsin neighbors. This novel details his work, using flashbacks and recollections to insert important points. Earth and Galactic politics are nearing a crisis point at the time of the story.

This is the sort of book that inserts itself into your own thoughts and dreams, and for me that includes comparisons with the Highlander, another man living outside society. If it were me, the Way Station would be more like an English Pub. I loved the descriptions of Enoch's land and the midwestern characters he interacts with; the station visitors were suitably interesting and alien as well. Most of all, I like the hope this novel demonstrates, with Enoch always working towards Earth joining the galactic scene. Highly recommended.