Bootjack is a collection of 70 poems that span nearly the entirety of Nelson's career. Many of the poems seek to showcase the twists and turns of everyday life. In the eponymous "Bootjack" poem, Nelson contrasts the static image of the bootjack sitting by the door of his childhood home with the shifting dynamic of his parents' relationship. While the bootjacks remains constant, their relationship is ever-changing through "shouting matches, divorce and death."

John Nelson has published poetry and other work in journals, magazines, and newspapers. Recent publications include poems in Montana Mouthful, Pasque Petals, Briar Cliff Review, South Dakota Magazine, Poetry Motel, and Delmar. He is a retired professor of English for New Media at Dakota State University in Madison, SD. A Native of Fort Pierre, SD, he writes about work, travel, and other human and celestial activities.