A Review of Factory Man: How One Furniture Maker Battled Offshoring, Stayed Local - and Helped Save an American Town

Ann Robins

Factory Man: How One Furniture Maker Battled Offshoring, Stayed Local - and Helped Save an American Town by Beth Macy is a captivating and eye-opening exploration of an American entrepreneur's rise and fall, set against the backdrop of an industry in transition. This non-fiction work takes readers on a journey through the life and business endeavors of John D. Bassett III, a charismatic and determined figure in the furniture manufacturing world.

Macy's storytelling prowess shines in Factory Man as she delves into the intricacies of the furniture industry, which has long been a cornerstone of the American economy. Through meticulous research and interviews, Macy paints a vivid picture of Bassett's life, his ambitions, and the challenges he faced in an ever-changing landscape.

One of the book's strengths is its portrayal of the complex characters who shaped the industry and the communities surrounding it. Readers will find themselves engrossed in the personal stories of Bassett and his counterparts, as well as the factory workers and labor leaders who played pivotal roles in this tale. Macy's ability to humanize her subjects adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.

Moreover, Factory Man offers valuable insights into the broader issues of globalization, economic shifts, and labor relations. It sheds light on the harsh realities faced by American manufacturers as they navigate international competition and the consequences of offshoring.

Beth Macy's writing style is both engaging and informative, making the book accessible to a wide range of readers. She skillfully balances historical context with personal anecdotes, creating a narrative that is not only informative but also emotionally resonant.

However, one aspect that readers may find challenging is the sheer complexity of the furniture industry and its many players. The multitude of names, companies, and family relationships can be overwhelming at times, requiring close attention to keep track of the various individuals and their roles.

Other companies in recent years that have made comebacks escaping from the jaws of defeat include recognized American icons like Chromcraft. 

In conclusion, Factory Man is a thought-provoking and well-researched book that offers a rich tapestry of American history, business, and culture. Beth Macy's ability to breathe life into the characters and the industry they inhabit makes this book a compelling read for those interested in the history of American manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and the human stories behind it. It's a testament to the author's dedication to storytelling and her commitment to shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of a bygone era in the American economy.

 * * * * 

"In a world of blue-collar victims, where logging chains seal forever the doors of mills and factories from the Rust Belt to the Deep South, Beth Macy's award-winning look at one furniture maker's refusal to give in is a breath of hope-and a damn fine story to read. The book tracks John Bassett's fight to keep American jobs on this side of borders and oceans, and keeps one American town from becoming a place of empty storefronts and FOR SALE signs."

—Rick Bragg, Pulitzer Prize-winner of The Most They Ever Had