Thomas McGuane

Thomas McGuane is an American author known for his novels, short stories, and screenplays. His works often explore themes of the American West, human relationships, and the complexities of modern life.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. An Outside Chance

    Essays on Sport

    Set against the backdrop of the rugged American West, this collection of essays delves into the profound connection between humans and the natural world. Through vivid storytelling and keen observations, the narrative explores themes of solitude, adventure, and the relentless pursuit of understanding one's place in the wilderness. The essays weave together personal anecdotes, reflections on the environment, and the intricate dance between man and nature, offering a contemplative look at the beauty and challenges of living in harmony with the land.

    The 14925th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Nobody's Angel

    The novel follows the life of Patrick Fitzpatrick, a disillusioned former cavalry officer who returns to his family's Montana ranch seeking solace and a sense of purpose. As he navigates the complexities of rural life, he encounters a cast of eccentric characters, including his troubled sister and a seductive local woman. Through a series of misadventures and personal revelations, Patrick grapples with themes of identity, redemption, and the harsh realities of the American West, ultimately confronting his own inner demons and the choices that have shaped his life.

    The 17035th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. Ninety Two In The Shade

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of Key West, this novel follows the tumultuous journey of a young man named Thomas Skelton, who returns to his hometown with dreams of starting a fishing guide business. As he navigates the colorful and often dangerous world of the Florida Keys, he finds himself entangled in a bitter rivalry with a seasoned guide, Nichol Dance. The story explores themes of ambition, identity, and the fine line between dreams and reality, all while painting a vivid picture of the eccentric characters and unpredictable nature of life in this sun-drenched paradise.

    The 16773rd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Cloudbursts

    Collected and New Stories

    This collection of short stories delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of love, loss, and the unpredictable twists of life. Set against the backdrop of the American West, the narratives weave through the lives of diverse characters, each grappling with their own unique challenges and desires. With a keen eye for detail and a touch of humor, the stories capture the essence of life's fleeting moments, offering a poignant reflection on the resilience and vulnerability of the human spirit.

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  5. 5. Some Horses

    Essays

    In this captivating collection of essays, the author delves into the profound and intricate relationship between humans and horses, exploring the nuances of equestrian life with a blend of humor, insight, and reverence. Through vivid storytelling and personal anecdotes, the narrative captures the essence of the equine world, from the thrill of competitive riding to the quiet moments of connection and understanding shared with these majestic creatures. The essays reflect on the challenges, triumphs, and the deep emotional bonds formed, offering readers a heartfelt glimpse into the world of horses and the people who love them.

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  6. 6. Keep The Change

    In this compelling narrative, a man named Joe Starling returns to his Montana roots after a failed stint as an artist in New York City. As he navigates the complexities of rural life, Joe grapples with the expectations of his family, the allure of the land, and the ghosts of his past. Through a series of encounters with eccentric locals and old acquaintances, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, confronting the tension between his artistic aspirations and the pull of his heritage. The story unfolds with a blend of humor and poignancy, capturing the essence of a man caught between two worlds.

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  7. 7. The Cadence Of Grass

    Set against the vast and rugged backdrop of Montana, this novel intricately weaves the lives of the dysfunctional Van Dorn family, whose members are bound by their shared history yet torn apart by personal ambitions and betrayals. At the heart of the story is Sunny Jim, a charismatic yet flawed patriarch whose business dealings and personal choices ripple through the lives of his estranged wife, their children, and a host of eccentric characters. As they navigate the complexities of love, loyalty, and redemption, the narrative explores themes of family legacy, the passage of time, and the enduring ties that bind people to the land and each other.

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  8. 8. Nothing But Blue Skies

    Set against the backdrop of the vast Montana landscape, this novel follows the life of Frank Copenhaver, a successful businessman whose life spirals into chaos after his wife leaves him. As Frank grapples with his newfound solitude, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering a colorful cast of characters and reflecting on the choices that led him to this point. With a blend of humor and poignancy, the story delves into themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of happiness, painting a vivid portrait of a man seeking redemption in the face of personal upheaval.

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  9. 9. To Skin A Cat

    Set against the rugged backdrop of the American West, this collection of short stories delves into the complexities of human relationships and the often unpredictable nature of life. Each tale is a vivid exploration of characters grappling with personal dilemmas, moral ambiguities, and the relentless passage of time. Through sharp wit and keen observation, the narratives reveal the raw and sometimes absurd realities of existence, painting a portrait of individuals striving to find meaning and connection in a world that is both beautiful and unforgiving.

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  10. 10. The Sporting Club

    Set in the rugged wilderness of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this novel delves into the lives of two lifelong friends, Vernor Stanton and James Quinn, as they navigate the complexities of their relationship amidst the backdrop of an exclusive hunting club. The story unfolds with a mix of humor and tragedy, exploring themes of masculinity, tradition, and the passage of time. As the club's annual gathering progresses, tensions rise, leading to a series of chaotic and transformative events that challenge the characters' perceptions of friendship, loyalty, and their own identities.

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  11. 11. Gallatin Canyon

    Set against the rugged backdrop of the American West, this collection of short stories delves into the complexities of human relationships and the unpredictable nature of life. Each tale explores themes of love, loss, and redemption, capturing the essence of characters who are often at odds with their surroundings and themselves. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the human condition, the narratives weave together moments of humor and poignancy, revealing the raw and unvarnished truths of existence. The stories are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst the vast and unforgiving landscape.

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  12. 12. Driving On The Rim

    Set against the rugged backdrop of Montana, this novel follows the life of Dr. Berl Pickett, a small-town physician grappling with the complexities of his personal and professional life. As he navigates the challenges of his career, including a malpractice suit, Berl reflects on his past relationships and the choices that have shaped his journey. The narrative weaves humor and introspection, exploring themes of redemption, identity, and the search for meaning in a world filled with unpredictability and moral ambiguity.

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