Charles Portis

Charles Portis was an American author best known for his classic Western novel 'True Grit,' which has been adapted into two acclaimed films. Born on December 28, 1933, in El Dorado, Arkansas, he served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War before attending the University of Arkansas. Portis worked as a journalist before turning to fiction writing. His other notable works include 'Norwood' and 'The Dog of the South.' His writing is celebrated for its wit, eccentric characters, and vivid storytelling. Charles Portis passed away on February 17, 2020.

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.

  1. 1. True Grit

    The novel follows the tenacious quest of a young girl named Mattie Ross, who is determined to avenge her father's murder. She hires a tough, aging U.S. Marshal with a reputation for getting the job done, despite his penchant for drinking and his rough-and-tumble demeanor. Together with a Texas Ranger, they set out into the treacherous Indian Territory to track down the killer. Throughout their journey, the unlikely trio faces various obstacles and dangers, but the young girl's unwavering resolve and the marshal's true grit lead them to confrontations with outlaws and ultimately, to justice.

    The 2007th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Dog Of The South

    This novel follows the journey of Ray Midge as he embarks on a quest to retrieve his stolen Ford Torino and his runaway wife, Norma, who has fled with her first husband, Guy Dupree. Midge's pursuit leads him from Little Rock, Arkansas, down into Mexico and Central America, encountering a cast of eccentric characters along the way, including a dubious doctor, a philosophical mechanic, and a civil war enthusiast. Through a blend of humor and adventure, the narrative delves into themes of obsession, redemption, and the search for identity amidst the chaos of the 1970s American South and the vibrant, yet tumultuous landscapes of Central America.

    The 5307th Greatest Book of All Time