Pierre McGowan describes the friendly confines of St. Helena in The Gullah Mailman. Beginning with a detailed description of the island's history and physical topography, McGowan then launches into the biographical account of his father Sam McGowan's life. Sam left a promising social life in Charleston to become a mail carrier at this isolated community predominately inhabited by five thousand Gullah-speaking African-Americans. Over the years, Sam would become a trusted and respected friend to all the island's residents and their stories become his story in the impressive memoir.
Like his father pierre has also spent most of his life in St.Helena. His love for the community is evident in the special care he takes when describing the landscapes and the individual stories of the people that held such an invaluable place in his father's heart. The Gullah Mailman is a refreshing look at a life almost forgotten in today's hectic society and a reminder of the importance of community and family.