Charles Portis

Charles Portis was an American author best known for his 1968 Western novel 'True Grit', which was adapted into films in 1969 and 2010. He is also known for his other works such as 'Norwood' and 'The Dog of the South'. Portis's writing is often praised for its humor, dialogue, and unique characters.

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.

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  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.

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  3. 3. Norwood

    The novel follows the adventures of Norwood Pratt, a naive and straightforward ex-Marine from Arkansas, as he embarks on a journey to New York City to collect a debt owed to him. Along the way, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, including con artists, oddballs, and a love interest, all while navigating various humorous and absurd situations. The story captures the essence of mid-20th century America, blending wit and charm with a sense of wanderlust and the pursuit of simple dreams.

  4. 4. Not A Box

    A delightful exploration of imagination, this story follows a young rabbit who transforms an ordinary cardboard box into a world of endless possibilities. Through a series of playful and creative scenarios, the rabbit demonstrates how a simple box can become anything from a rocket ship to a mountain, emphasizing the boundless nature of creativity and the joy of seeing the world through the eyes of a child. The narrative celebrates the power of imagination and encourages readers to look beyond the obvious, finding magic in the mundane.

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  5. 5. Masters Of Atlantis

    Set in the early 20th century, this satirical novel follows the rise and fall of a secret society known as the Gnomon Society, which claims to possess the ancient wisdom of Atlantis. The story centers around Lamar Jimmerson, who becomes the Grand Master after acquiring a mysterious book that supposedly contains the secrets of the lost civilization. As the society grows, it attracts a colorful cast of eccentric characters, each with their own quirks and ambitions. Through a series of humorous misadventures and absurd situations, the narrative explores themes of gullibility, the quest for knowledge, and the human tendency to seek meaning in the esoteric and the arcane.

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  6. 6. Gringos

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mexico, this novel follows the adventures of Jimmy Burns, an expatriate American who finds himself entangled in a series of bizarre and often humorous escapades. As he navigates the eccentricities of local culture and the peculiarities of fellow expatriates, Jimmy becomes embroiled in a quest involving ancient Mayan artifacts, UFO enthusiasts, and a cast of quirky characters. With a blend of wit and satire, the story explores themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a world filled with chaos and unpredictability.

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