Peter Matthiessen

Peter Matthiessen was an American novelist, naturalist, wilderness writer, and CIA officer. He was also a co-founder of The Paris Review and won the National Book Award for Fiction and Nonfiction.

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. The Snow Leopard

    A Study of the Himalayas

    "The Snow Leopard" is a travelogue that recounts the author's two-month journey in the Himalayas with naturalist George Schaller. The duo trek through the rugged and remote mountains of Nepal on a quest to study the rare blue sheep and possibly spot the elusive snow leopard. The book is as much a spiritual journey as it is a physical one, with the author seeking solace and understanding following the death of his wife. The narrative explores themes of grief, nature, and Buddhism, offering a poignant and introspective look at life and loss.

    The 1224th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. At Play in the Fields of the Lord

    This novel is a deep exploration of clashes between cultures, religions and personal desires, set in the South American jungle. The story focuses on two North American adventurers who are hired to bomb a remote missionary outpost, a zealous evangelical minister trying to convert a tribe of Amazonian Indians, and the Indians themselves, who are struggling to maintain their way of life. The narrative delves into the moral and spiritual dilemmas faced by each character, and the tragic consequences of misunderstanding and intolerance.

    The 4738th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. Far Tortuga

    This novel tells the story of a group of Caribbean turtle fishermen who set out on a dangerous journey to the remote island of Far Tortuga. The narrative unfolds through the use of dialect, sea charts, and poetry, creating a vivid and unique portrayal of the men's struggle for survival against the harsh realities of the sea. As the crew faces various challenges, their story explores themes of man's relationship with nature, the passage of time, and the inevitability of death.

    The 10360th Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 4. Shadow Country

    A New Rendering of the Watson Legend

    Shadow Country is a historical novel that explores the life of outlaw and entrepreneur Edgar J. Watson, a notorious figure in the late 19th and early 20th century American South. The narrative delves deep into Watson's complex character, his violent deeds, and the mystery surrounding his death, providing a panoramic view of the lawless frontier life in Florida's Everglades. The story is told from multiple perspectives, each revealing a different aspect of Watson's life and the era he lived in, making it a compelling study of human nature and the American frontier.

    The 14347th Greatest Book of All Time
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  5. 5. In The Spirit Of Crazy Horse

    The Story of Leonard Peltier and the FBI's War on the American Indian Movement

    The book delves into the conflict between the American Indian Movement (AIM) and the U.S. government during the 1970s, focusing particularly on the 1975 shootout on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. It examines the wrongful conviction of Native American activist Leonard Peltier for the murders of two FBI agents during this confrontation, presenting a critical analysis of the legal proceedings and the broader context of historical injustice against Native Americans. The narrative combines thorough research with personal accounts, highlighting the struggle for Native American rights and sovereignty, and questioning the fairness and integrity of the American justice system.

    The 17119th Greatest Book of All Time
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  6. 6. The Tree Where Man Was Born

    Set against the vast and varied landscapes of East Africa, this evocative narrative weaves together the rich tapestry of the region's natural beauty, wildlife, and indigenous cultures. Through a series of vivid vignettes, the author explores the intricate relationships between humans and the environment, capturing the essence of the African wilderness with a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for its timeless allure. The work is both a celebration of the continent's enduring spirit and a poignant reflection on the challenges it faces in the modern world.

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  7. 7. Nine Headed Dragon River

    Zen Journals 1969-1982

    In this introspective and deeply personal narrative, the author embarks on a transformative journey through the spiritual landscapes of Zen Buddhism. The book chronicles his experiences and reflections as he navigates the challenges and revelations encountered on his path to enlightenment. Through vivid descriptions and thoughtful insights, the author explores the intricate balance between the demands of the modern world and the timeless wisdom of Zen, offering readers a profound exploration of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.

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  8. 8. Wildlife In America

    None

    This compelling narrative explores the intricate history of wildlife in North America, tracing the profound changes in the continent's ecosystems from the arrival of European settlers to the modern era. It delves into the impact of human activities on various species, highlighting the loss and recovery of wildlife populations over time. The book offers a poignant reflection on the relationship between humans and nature, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to preserve the continent's rich biodiversity for future generations.

  9. 9. Indian Country

    Counterpoint

    Set against the backdrop of the American West, this compelling narrative delves into the struggles and resilience of Native American communities as they navigate the challenges of preserving their culture and identity in the face of modern encroachments. Through vivid storytelling and insightful observations, the book explores the complex interplay between tradition and progress, highlighting the enduring spirit of indigenous peoples as they confront issues of land rights, environmental conservation, and cultural survival. The narrative is both a tribute to the rich heritage of Native American tribes and a poignant reflection on the broader themes of justice and reconciliation.

  10. 10. In Paradise

    Set against the haunting backdrop of a former Nazi concentration camp, this poignant narrative follows a diverse group of individuals who gather for a week-long retreat to confront the atrocities of the Holocaust. As they delve into the depths of human suffering and the complexities of guilt and forgiveness, the characters grapple with their own personal histories and the collective memory of the past. Through moments of tension, reflection, and unexpected connections, the story explores the enduring impact of history on the present and the possibility of finding redemption amidst the shadows of unimaginable horror.

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  11. 11. Killing Mister Watson

    Set on the lawless Florida frontier at the end of the 19th century, the novel follows a struggling pioneer family and the volatile men who converge on their swamp homestead as ambition, resentment, and hunger ignite into violence; through spare, lyrical prose it examines the collapse of an old patriarchal order, racial and economic tensions, and the costly human consequences of survival and revenge.

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