In "The Last Bookaneer," Matthew Pearl explores the grim future of traditional bookshops and the written word. The narrative expresses a troubling prediction that these cherished places may eventually vanish, replaced by the convenience of mail order services. This shift poses a significant threat to the culture of reading and personal engagement with books.

The book further suggests that newspapers, due to their affordability and portability, may supplant books entirely. This idea highlights the tension between the enduring value of books and the rising dominance of faster, cheaper alternatives. Pearl’s work serves as a reflection on the evolving landscape of literature and publishing, raising concerns about the potential loss of books as we know them.