David Slack is a shellfisher on Cape Cod, a region known for its robust shellfishing industry. His career trajectory took a significant turn when he transitioned from a conventional desk job to the more hands-on and physically demanding practice of shellfishing. This change not only reflects a personal choice but also underscores a broader narrative of individuals seeking livelihoods connected to their community and environment.

Born in 1892, Bonnell describes his experiences living on Cape Cod  including bullraking, digging clams, and tautog fishing; transportation to the Cape by train, early automobiles and motorcycles; early electric lights and kerosene lanterns; dentistry on the Cape in the early 20th century; Billingsgate Island; rum runners, and being the captain of a charter fishing boat.