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. Angle of Repose

   

   This novel follows the story of a retired historian, wheelchair-bound due to a degenerative disease, as he explores the lives of his pioneering grandparents in the late 19th and early 20th century American West. Through letters, he pieces together their struggles, triumphs, and the impact of their relationship on their surroundings. The historian parallels his own life and failed marriage with that of his grandparents, leading to a deep exploration of the concepts of stability, perseverance, and the "angle of repose."

   The 658th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. All The Little Live Things

   

   The novel explores the complexities of human relationships and the inevitable confrontation with mortality through the eyes of a retired literary agent who, along with his wife, seeks tranquility in the California hills. Their idyllic retreat is disrupted by the arrival of various characters, including a free-spirited young woman battling cancer and a stubborn neighbor intent on destroying the natural landscape. As the protagonist grapples with the intrusion of these "little live things," he reflects on the themes of aging, loss, and the enduring struggle to find meaning in the face of life's impermanence.

   The 4491st Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. The Spectator Bird

   

   The novel follows the story of a literary agent, now retired, who lives a quiet life with his wife in California. Their peace is disrupted when an old postcard from a Danish aristocrat arrives, prompting them to revisit their past. The protagonist begins reading from his old journal, recounting their trip to Denmark years ago, where they became entangled in a mysterious and unsettling affair. The novel explores themes of memory, aging, and the choices that shape one's life.

   The 13542nd Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Wolf Willow

   A History, a Story, and a Memory of the Last Plains Frontier

   

   Set against the backdrop of the Canadian prairies, this reflective narrative weaves together personal memoir, historical exploration, and vivid storytelling to capture the essence of life on the frontier. Through a tapestry of memories and observations, the author delves into the rugged beauty and harsh realities of the land, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the passage of time. The work is a poignant homage to the spirit of the West, offering a rich, introspective look at the interplay between nature and human experience.

   The 14983rd Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. Angle Of Repose, The Spectator Bird, Crossing To Safety

   

   In this poignant exploration of human relationships and the passage of time, the narrative weaves through the lives of individuals grappling with the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of the American West, the story delves into the intricacies of marriage, the pursuit of dreams, and the inevitable challenges that arise with age and experience. Through richly drawn characters and evocative landscapes, the tale captures the essence of resilience and the enduring quest for meaning and connection in an ever-changing world.

   The 15893rd Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. The Big Rock Candy Mountain

   

   Set against the backdrop of the American West during the early 20th century, this novel follows the tumultuous journey of the Mason family as they seek prosperity and stability amidst the harsh realities of frontier life. The narrative intricately weaves the dreams and disillusionments of Bo Mason, a restless and ambitious man, with the resilience and sacrifices of his wife, Elsa, and their two sons. Through their struggles and triumphs, the story explores themes of ambition, family dynamics, and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream, painting a vivid portrait of a family's quest for a better life in an unforgiving landscape.

   The 16923rd Greatest Book of All Time

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