Tom Robbins
Tom Robbins is an American author known for his wildly imaginative and often humorous novels. His works include 'Even Cowgirls Get the Blues,' 'Jitterbug Perfume,' and 'Still Life with Woodpecker.' Robbins' writing is characterized by its offbeat style, philosophical musings, and vibrant characters.
Books
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.
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1. Even Cowgirls Get The Blues
The novel follows the unconventional life of Sissy Hankshaw, a free-spirited woman born with abnormally large thumbs, which she turns into an asset by becoming a hitchhiking legend. Her journey takes her from a troubled childhood to a modeling career and eventually to the Rubber Rose Ranch, a haven for rebellious cowgirls. Along the way, Sissy encounters a cast of eccentric characters and explores themes of freedom, individuality, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The story is infused with humor, philosophical musings, and a celebration of nonconformity.
The 9285th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
2. Another Roadside Attraction
The novel is a whimsical and philosophical exploration of counterculture in the 1970s, centered around a free-spirited couple who open a roadside zoo and hot dog stand in the Pacific Northwest. Their lives take a surreal turn when they come into possession of a mysterious and controversial religious artifact, leading them on a journey filled with eccentric characters, existential musings, and a critique of societal norms. The story blends humor, mysticism, and social commentary, challenging conventional beliefs and celebrating the pursuit of individual freedom and enlightenment.
The 11244th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
3. Skinny Legs and All
The novel follows the story of Ellen Cherry Charles, an artist who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment, and her husband, Randolph "Boomer" Petway, who creates a mobile home out of a turkey. The narrative also includes inanimate objects - a Conch Shell, a Can of Beans, a Dirty Sock, a Painted Stick, and a Silver Spoon - that come to life and embark on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. The book explores themes of love, art, religion, and the human condition, all with a blend of humor and philosophical insight.
The 14984th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
4. Still Life With Woodpecker
A Sort of a Love Story
The novel is a whimsical and philosophical exploration of love, individuality, and the search for meaning. It follows the unconventional romance between a rebellious princess and an outlaw bomber, set against the backdrop of a world grappling with environmental and societal issues. Through a series of humorous and surreal events, the characters navigate their desires and beliefs, ultimately questioning the nature of reality and the possibility of creating a better world. The story is rich with Robbins' signature wit and vibrant prose, offering a playful yet profound commentary on the complexities of human existence.
The 17131st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
5. Jitterbug Perfume
The novel weaves together multiple narratives across time and space, exploring themes of immortality, love, and the pursuit of enlightenment. Central to the story is the journey of a king from ancient Bohemia who seeks eternal life, intertwined with the modern-day adventures of perfumers in Seattle and New Orleans. As the characters' paths converge, the book delves into the mystical and sensual aspects of scent, celebrating the interconnectedness of life and the enduring power of the human spirit. Through its whimsical and philosophical storytelling, the novel challenges conventional notions of time, identity, and the essence of existence.
The 17131st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon