Top 15 John Irving Books
Dive into the world of John Irving’s captivating novels! In this book roundup, we’ll explore some of his most remarkable works and delve into the themes and characters that have captivated readers for years.
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1. The World According to Garp
A Novel
Step into the world of T. S. Garp and Jenny Fields in John Irving’s riveting novel, The World According to Garp. This timeless tale follows the lives of a man with immense artistic ambition, who is deeply devoted to his family, and his radical, yet empathetic mother.
The engaging story weaves through a colorful cast of characters, including teachers, radicals, and those caught in between, all while exploring the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of personal growth. This thought-provoking, 530-page journey into the heart of family dynamics will capture your imagination and leave you craving more.
Garp and Jenny’s world, filled with humor, grit, and heart, is one you won’t soon forget.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Random House Digital, Inc.
- Published Date: July 05, 1978
- Page Count: 530
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Average Rating: 5.0
- Ratings Count: 1.0
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
2. John Irving
John Irving: The Man and the Writer is a comprehensive exploration of the life and work of one of America’s most acclaimed novelists. Edited by Carol C. Harter and James R. Thompson, this engaging volume delves into the various aspects of Irving’s career, providing unprecedented insight into the creative process of contemporary literature. With a foreword that reveals Irving as a cultural hero, this biography illuminates his unique approach to storytelling and its influence on readers across generations.
The collection begins with “Novelist as Cultural Hero, “ an insightful analysis of Irving’s writing style and themes. Moving on to “Setting Free the Bears: From ‘Pre-History’ to Fiction, “ the reader is introduced to the origin and evolution of one of his most celebrated works. The following chapter, “The Water-Method Man: From Autobiography to Art, “ offers a closer look at how Irving’s personal experiences have shaped his literary output.
Furthermore, “The 158-Pound Marriage: ‘A Tale by a Villain’” examines the life-altering impact of writing for Irving, while “The World According to Garp: Life as a Doomed Effort at Reclassification” explores the socio-political undertones present in his works. This intriguing compilation concludes with “The Hotel New Hampshire: ‘So We Dream On’” and “The Cider House Rules: Novel as Polemic, “ which explore the role of literature as a catalyst for social change.
Complementing the narrative are a series of fascinating anecdotes, selected bibliography, notes, references, and a comprehensive index. With its thoughtful analysis and vivid descriptions, John Irving: The Man and the Writer is an essential addition to any reader’s bookshelf.
- Authors: Carol C. Harter, James R. Thompson
- Publisher: MacMillan Publishing Company
- Published Date: July 05, 1986
- Page Count: 184
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Biography & Autobiography
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
3. Trying to Save Piggy Sneed
Novelist John Irving is a master storyteller, and Trying to Save Piggy Sneed showcases his gift for both fiction and nonfiction. The book collects a series of 12 short works from Irving’s career, spanning over three decades. The collection opens with three memoirs, one of which is a fascinating account of the author’s dinner with President Reagan at the White House. The main piece, “The Imaginary Girlfriend” is a full-fledged memoir taking readers through a unique and personal story from the author’s life.
The second part of the book features fiction, including half-a-dozen tales that Irving sees fit to call “finished. “ For fans of Irving’s novels, this section will be a fascinating glimpse into his skillful storytelling in a different format. In the third and final section, the author shares his appreciation for the works of Gunter Grass and Charles Dickens through three essays. Each of these 12 pieces is accompanied by Irving’s Author’s Notes, adding context and insight into the genesis of each work.
With a page count of 470 and published in 1996, Trying to Save Piggy Sneed offers a varied and compelling perspective on the accomplished career of a gifted author.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Arcade Publishing
- Published Date: July 05, 1996
- Page Count: 470
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Biography & Autobiography
- Average Rating: 3.0
- Ratings Count: 4.0
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
4. John Irving
A Critical Companion
Delve into the world of one of America’s greatest living novelists through “John Irving: A Critical Companion” by Josie P. Campbell. This comprehensive study offers a thorough analysis of Irving’s work, from his earliest novels to his most recent publications. Explore the themes of race, war, sexism, and more in a novelist known for his humor, absurd situations, and challenging societal issues.
This 220-page book is a must-read for anyone interested in John Irving or literary criticism. With its focus on character development, thematic issues, and a fresh critical approach, “John Irving: A Critical Companion” provides a valuable insight into the author’s work. It also includes a complete bibliography of Irving’s fiction, selected reviews and criticism, and an overview of his life — making this the perfect companion for both amateur readers and professional scholars alike. Don’t miss out on the chance to fully appreciate the genius of John Irving with this insightful and engaging book.
- Authors: Josie P. Campbell
- Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing USA
- Published Date: November 24, 1998
- Page Count: 220
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Literary Criticism
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
5. Until I Find You
A Novel
In John Irving’s captivating novel, Until I Find You, readers are introduced to the enigmatic actor Jack Burns as he delves deep into the truth about his mysterious past. From a young age, Jack embarks on a life-long search for his father, William, navigating through Europe with his unconventional mother, Alice. As Jack grows up, he becomes embroiled in a whirlwind of relationships with unconventional women, all while pursuing his dreams of becoming an actor.
This heartrending and mesmerizing tale delves into the world of obsession and loss, truth and storytelling. As Jack’s mother passes away, he begins to doubt the distorted picture his mother painted of his father’s character during his childhood. Driven by an insatiable desire to uncover the truth, Jack embarks on a second journey around Europe in search of his elusive father.
As the story unfolds, Jack encounters a colorful cast of eccentric characters, each contributing to his journey of self-discovery. The narrative weaves seamlessly between moments of sorrow and humor, revealing a tapestry of life’s dreams and disappointments. Irving masterfully captures the essence of Jack’s unusual rise to success and redefines the boundaries of love, loss, and human spirit.
Until I Find You is a sweeping novel of epic proportions, beautifully intertwining the themes of addiction, sacrifice, and the power of storytelling. John Irving once again proves his prowess as a master storyteller, making this a must-read masterpiece from one of the most admired novelists of our time.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Random House
- Published Date: July 12, 2005
- Page Count: 848
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Average Rating: 4.0
- Ratings Count: 2.0
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
6. Last Night in Twisted River
A Novel
In John Irving’s captivating novel, Last Night in Twisted River, we journey through the tumultuous events of a little boy’s life, exploring themes of betrayal, friendship, and the devastating consequences of hate. Set in the small logging and sawmill settlement of Twisted River in northern New Hampshire in 1954, the story begins when a young boy mistakes the local constable’s girlfriend for a bear, leading to a thrilling chase through time and place.
This thrilling tale stretches over five decades, painting a picture of America in the latter half of the 20th century — a time marked by the rampant spread of hatred and intolerance. Throughout the journey, the author’s unique voice shines, offering readers a mesmerizing narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. With a page count of 577 and categorized under Fiction, Last Night in Twisted River is a must-read that promises to leave a lasting impression on its readers.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Random House
- Published Date: October 27, 2009
- Page Count: 577
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Average Rating: 2.5
- Ratings Count: 9.0
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
7. Nobody’s Fool
Nobody’s Fool is a captivating novel penned by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Richard Russo. Set in a blue-collar town in upstate New York, the story revolves around Sully, a man known for his long string of misadventures. As he navigates through life’s challenges, including a messy family life and a penchant for making the wrong choices, he faces a major setback — his estranged son is heading down a similar path to his.
Rich in humor and compassionate in its portrayal of life’s complexities, Nobody’s Fool is a heartfelt journey that delves into the triumphs and follies of the human spirit. Filled with endearing characters and relatable situations, this novel is a celebration of storytelling at its most generous.
Translated onto the silver screens with a star-studded cast including Paul Newman, Bruce Willis, Jessica Tandy, and Melody Griffith, the pages of Nobody’s Fool come alive, immersing the reader in this delightful tale of resilience and determination. The story is a prequel to Everybody’s Fool and Somebody’s Fool, making this one a must-read for fans of the author, or those looking to immerse themselves in a masterfully written piece of fiction.
- Authors: Richard Russo
- Publisher: Vintage
- Published Date: November 09, 2011
- Page Count: 561
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Average Rating: 3.0
- Ratings Count: 2.0
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
8. A Son of the Circus
A Novel
From the talented and critically acclaimed author John Irving, an enthralling tale of mystery, allure, and bonds that refuse to be severed graces us. A Son of the Circus is a gripping novel that explores the lives of twins separated at birth, their paths never crossing until a sequence of events that transforms everything.
The story opens in an unanticipated manner with a celebrated Hindi film star and an American missionary, both blissfully uninformed of each other’s existence. Their lives take a sudden twist when a dwarf, a previous circus clown, inadvertently mistakes one for the other. As their worlds collide, the twins find themselves enveloped in the pandemonium of a circus, and their lives become inextricably linked.
Yet, their connection doesn’t go unnoticed. A serial killer is stalking one of the twins, and the hunt to reveal the predator’s identity and preserve the other’s life turns into the most challenging hurdle.
In A Son of the Circus, Irving deftly weaves themes of identity, family, and the unbreakable bonds that bind us together. This novel offers a distinctive mix of suspense, emotion, and outstanding characters that readers will become attached to. This is a story that will linger in your memory after the final page is turned.
Do not miss this exhilarating and unforgettable voyage into the lives of two estranged twins, as they unravel the enigmas that have kept them apart for their entire lives. A Son of the Circus is a must-read for fans of John Irving, as well as avid readers who adore engaging, contemplative novels. So, immerse yourself in this extraordinary realm and take the stage for an unforgettable performance.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Vintage Canada
- Published Date: May 08, 2012
- Page Count: 758
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
9. The Imaginary Girlfriend
John Irving, the award-winning author of masterpieces such as The World According to Garp and In One Person, dives into the depths of his life in his candid memoir, The Imaginary Girlfriend. Delving into his parallel careers in writing and wrestling, Irving shares a personal journey that bridges the gap between art and sport, providing a lucid portrait of the characters who influenced his development as a novelist, wrestler, and wrestling coach.
Through a series of anecdotes, both hilarious and somber, Irving weaves together the lessons he learned on the mat and the page, offering a poignant reflection on the importance of living well. From first-time beginnings to the eve of his fourth wrestling-related surgery at the age of fifty-three, The Imaginary Girlfriend is a must-read for any fan of John Irving or a captivating tale for those new to his writing.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Skyhorse
- Published Date: December 10, 2013
- Page Count: 131
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Biography & Autobiography
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
10. Avenue of Mysteries
Venture into the world of John Irving as he masterfully transports you to the Philippines. The intriguing tale of Juan Diego intertwines his past and present via the Avenue of Mysteries. Delving into the power of dreams and memories, you’re about to experience a magical journey that captivates at every turn. Will Juan Diego finally uncover the mysteries that propel him towards his destiny?
In this mesmerizing book, Simon and Schuster present a beautifully woven tale of fate, adventure, and self-discovery over 480 pages. The captivating narrative delves into the human experience of living both in the past and the present. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the world of Avenue of Mysteries. Who knows, fate might have led you here too!
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Simon and Schuster
- Published Date: November 03, 2015
- Page Count: 480
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
11. Eccentric Orbits
The Iridium Story
Eccentric Orbits is the thrilling, true story of the birth, death, and unexpected resurrection of the Iridium satellite system — a technological achievement that initially seemed doomed for failure. The book offers a compelling narrative of Motorola’s ambitious creation in the early 1990s, which promised to revolutionize global communications with its revolutionary satellite constellation of 66 polar orbiting satellites.
However, the company’s meteoric rise and inevitable descent into bankruptcy are woven intricately with the tale of how Dan Colussy, a retired head of Pan-Am, took it upon himself to save the company and the groundbreaking satellite system. Eccentric Orbits is a captivating exploration of technological innovation, business failure, and the military-industrial complex — and the incredible journey of one man determined to salvage one of the biggest blunders in business history.
- Authors: John Bloom
- Publisher: Open Road + Grove/Atlantic
- Published Date: June 07, 2016
- Page Count: 604
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Technology & Engineering
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
12. Setting Free the Bears
A Novel
In 1967, two adventurous Viennese university students named Siggy and Hannes set out on a whimsical journey across the Austrian countryside on their motorcycles. Their goal: to liberate the bears confined in the Vienna Zoo. But as their bold plan unfolds, it takes on a life of its own, with consequences that are both comical and bloodcurdling.
John Irving, a master storyteller even at twenty-five, weaves a captivating tale in his first novel, “Setting Free the Bears. “ This enchanting story of youthful rebellion and the longings and agonies of growing up, is hailed as “truly remarkable” and “astonishing” by Time and Saturday Review, respectively. The characters of Siggy and Hannes are described as “merry pranksters” who embody the spirit of adventure and the unpredictability of youth.
As they navigate the highs and lows of their grand escapade, the two students come face to face with the complexities of life, love, and the consequences of their actions. A rich exploration of the human spirit and the lengths we go to in the name of freedom, “Setting Free the Bears” is a novel that will leave a lasting impression on any reader fortunate enough to experience it.
So, strap on your motorcycle helmets and join Siggy and Hannes on their unforgettable journey in this spellbinding tale by one of the most celebrated authors of our time-John Irving.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Ballantine Books
- Published Date: May 15, 2018
- Page Count: 304
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
13. The World According to Garp
A Novel
“The World According to Garp” is a classic coming-of-age novel by John Irving, now available in eBook format for the first time ever in America. This 40th-anniversary edition features a new introduction by the author himself.
The story revolves around Garp, a character whose mother, Jenny Fields, is an unmarried nurse turned feminist leader in Boston. Garp grows up with a life full of twists and turns, navigating the complexities of love, family, and society. The novel explores themes of sexual violence, political polarization, and intolerance of sexual minorities and differences.
Despite the dark undertones, the novel maintains its trademark humor and pacing, reflecting Irving’s unique storytelling style. “The World According to Garp” has won numerous awards, including the National Book Award, and has been translated into over thirty languages.
Join Garp on an unforgettable journey through life, love, and the complexities of the world around him. This book is a must-read for any fan of John Irving, and anyone who appreciates a good story that keeps you on your toes. The 709-page novel offers a compelling narrative that will leave you pondering its lessons long after you’ve turned the final page.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Penguin
- Published Date: October 25, 2018
- Page Count: 709
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: MATURE
- Language: en
14. The Hotel New Hampshire
“The Hotel New Hampshire” is a touching, humorous, and captivating tale of the Berry family, a clan of eccentric, resilient, and unforgettable characters. Through the eyes of John Berry, the author narrates the unconventional lives of this extraordinary family.
From the whimsical to the profound, this novel intertwines the dreams, triumphs, and heartaches of the Berry siblings, blending the world of hotels with their quirky, unpredictable lives. As the characters navigate a whirlwind of emotions and a series of extraordinary events, “The Hotel New Hampshire” shines a light on the resilience and eccentricity of the human spirit. This remarkable work of fiction by the inimitable John Irving, author of “A Son of the Circus” and “A Prayer for Owen Meany”, is sure to leave a lasting impression on its readers.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Vintage Canada
- Published Date: March 26, 2019
- Page Count: 416
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
15. The Last Chairlift
From the masterful mind of John Irving comes The Last Chairlift, an enthralling fifteenth novel that seamlessly blends elements of supernatural mystery and tender love story. Transporting readers to the iconic ski resort of Aspen, Colorado, in 1941, the tale follows slalom skier Little Ray’s unconventional journey through life, pregnancy, and the unexpected course it takes.
Fast forward to present day, and Little Ray’s long-lost son, Adam, embarks on a quest for answers about his family’s enigmatic past. Venturing to Aspen and staying in the historic Hotel Jerome, he encounters more than just haunting memories. As the mysteries unfold, readers are drawn into a sweeping narrative that spans decades and confronts the sexual politics of the time.
A true master of storytelling, John Irving has penned some of the most celebrated novels of our era, including The World According to Garp and The Cider House Rules. Known for his exploration of sexual tolerance and the complexity of alternative families, Irving’s latest offering, The Last Chairlift, offers a rich, captivating experience that fans of the author have come to expect.
In this “generously intertextual” (The New York Times) novel, readers will be swept away by Irving’s unparalleled ability to interweave ghostly encounters with intricate family histories. The Last Chairlift is a must-read for fans of compelling fiction that explores the intricacies of human connection and the power of the past.
- Authors: John Irving
- Publisher: Simon and Schuster
- Published Date: October 18, 2022
- Page Count: 1096
- Print Type: BOOK
- Categories: Fiction
- Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
- Language: en
