Top 9 Gore Vidal Books

Crystal Smith
8 min readJul 13, 2024

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Dive into the world of Gore Vidal Books as we explore and highlight a collection of his most captivating works. This roundup offers readers an opportunity to discover Vidal’s literary genius, which spans across various genres, and gain insight into what makes his writing stand out.

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1. Live from Golgotha

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The Gospel According to Gore Vidal

“Live from Golgotha: The Gospel According to Gore Vidal” masterfully intertwines historical fiction, religious intrigue, and modern technological advancements in a story by renowned author Gore Vidal. The narrative takes place in 96 A. D. , where Timothy, the Bishop of Macedonia, is tasked with recording his version of the sacred story. Timothy’s Gospel is the only one immune to the cyberpunk’s destructive virus.

Meanwhile, an NBC crew, transported through a breakthrough in computer software, intends to broadcast live from Golgotha, capturing the Crucifixion for an ambitious TV special. Timothy’s quest to finish his story is complicated by visiting guests from the distant future and the truth about Jesus’ eating disorder. All the while, Timothy battles to secure the anchor slot for the big event without the backing of a prominent agency.

This fast-paced, witty, and thought-provoking book is a must-read for fans of fiction and those interested in history, blending elements of religion, cybernetics, and politics in a captivating and ingenious way.

  • Authors: Gore Vidal
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published Date: October 01, 1993
  • Page Count: 240
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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2. Conversations with Gore Vidal

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Gore Vidal, a literary giant with a rich and varied career, comes to life through captivating interviews in “Conversations with Gore Vidal. “ Delve into the mind of this iconic figure as he discusses his groundbreaking novels, his unconventional life, and the political landscape of the United States. From his early days as an enfant terrible to his prominent role as a screenwriter, Vidal’s wit and candor create an engaging and intriguing portrait of one of America’s most prolific authors. This collection of conversations provides unique insights into the life and work of a literary legend who fearlessly challenged society’s norms and conventions.

  • Authors: Gore Vidal
  • Publisher: Univ. Press of Mississippi
  • Published Date: April 10, 2005
  • Page Count: 228
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Average Rating: 5.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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3. Gore Vidal

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A Comprehensive Bibliography

A Comprehensive Bibliography: Gore Vidal is a fascinating exploration into the multifaceted literary career of one of America’s most celebrated writers. This meticulously curated collection, penned by esteemed author S. T. Joshi, meticulously charts Vidal’s incredible journey as an author, spanning a remarkable sixty years. From his debut novel, Williwaw published in 1950, to his final memoir, Point to Point Navigation, published in 2006, each of his works is carefully examined and contextualized.

With a staggering 360 pages, this book is a treasure trove for scholars, bookworms, and fans alike, serving as a comprehensive guide to the author’s extensive body of work. It’s not just about numbers or dates, but also about delving into the depths of Vidal’s creative process, thematic explorations, and insights into twentieth-century American literature.

Paperback in print, published by Scarecrow Press on April 10, 2007, this book takes in every facet of Vidal’s impressive literary career. Forget average ratings, because this book’s value is unparalleled, making it an indispensable resource for serious students of contemporary literature. If you’re interested in understanding the evolution of American literature from a new perspective, this book could very well be your next read.

  • Authors: S. T. Joshi
  • Publisher: Scarecrow Press
  • Published Date: April 10, 2007
  • Page Count: 360
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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4. Lincoln

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A Novel

Delve into the heart of a historic presidency with Gore Vidal’s gripping novel, Lincoln. Set in the tumultuous early years of Abraham Lincoln’s tenure, this masterpiece unfolds the intricate web of plotting, politics, and personal turmoil surrounding the 16th President.

Amidst the backdrop of a fragmenting nation and the relentless advance of Lee’s armies, Lincoln grapples with conspiracies, an increasingly fraying government, and the struggle for unity. Bursting with vivid characters and eloquent prose, Vidal’s portrait of Lincoln is a tour de force, blending epic scope and intimate portrayal of a President grappling with the weight of his time.

Experience history as if you were standing in the shadow of the White House, guided by one of the greatest historical novelists of all time. Reissue includes a new introduction by the author.

  • Authors: Gore Vidal
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: April 13, 2011
  • Page Count: 673
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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5. Burr

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A Novel

Burr is an enthralling novel by literary titan Gore Vidal that unravels the complex, enigmatic life of Aaron Burr, the man who famously ended the life of Alexander Hamilton in a fateful duel. Set against the backdrop of America’s fledgling nation, this gripping tale delves deep into the hidden facets of one of the most misunderstood and powerful founding fathers.

From the 1804 duel to the treason charges of 1807, and the tumultuous life of an aging statesman in 1833, Burr provides a fascinating insight into the political landscape and civic dramas of an emerging nation. Burr is the first novel in Vidal’s Narratives of Empire series, which takes readers on a panoramic journey through American history, politics, and imperialism, as chronicled by a master storyteller and astute observer.

  • Authors: Gore Vidal
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: August 31, 2011
  • Page Count: 449
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Average Rating: 4.0
  • Ratings Count: 2.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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6. Gore Vidal

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A Biography

Immerse yourself into the realm of the extraordinary American author and public intellect, Gore Vidal, through this captivating biography (The Atlanta Journal-Constitution). Distinguished author Fred Kaplan delves into the vast literary landscape the icon has traversed, spanning genres ranging from novels to screenplays and stage productions. Kaplan provides a comprehensive overview of Vidal’s multifaceted role as an influential essayist, cultural observer, and intellectual. By gaining access to the icon’s private documents and correspondence, Kaplan paints a vivid and intriguing portrait that unravels the intricacies, obstacles and triumphs of this celebrated figure. As Vidal’s paths intersected with other luminaries of his era, including the Kennedy family and Tennessee Williams, this definitive biography offers a unique lens into Vidal’s life and work, as well as a tantalizing exploration of the mind of a brilliant and enigmatic writer.

  • Authors: Fred Kaplan
  • Publisher: Open Road Media
  • Published Date: April 23, 2013
  • Page Count: 775
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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7. Thieves Fall Out

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“Thieves Fall Out” is a gripping historical crime novel by the esteemed Gore Vidal (also known as “Edgar Box” and “Cameron Kay”). Set on the eve of revolution in Egypt, this forgotten masterpiece from Vidal’s early career blends political intrigue, sexual tension, and explosive action.

The story follows a down-on-his-luck American, hired to smuggle an ancient relic out of Cairo amidst brewing revolution, as his world becomes entangled in larger events. This captivating novel is a rich portrait of Vidal’s unique and dynamic storytelling as he seamlessly merges real-world events with literary artistry.

“Thieves Fall Out” offers a unique insight into the mind of Gore Vidal when he first emerged as a prominent figure in American literature and intellectual circles.

  • Authors: Gore Vidal
  • Publisher: Titan Books (US, CA)
  • Published Date: April 07, 2015
  • Page Count: 240
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Average Rating: 4.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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8. Empire of Self

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A Life of Gore Vidal

Gear up for an enthralling literary journey as you delve into the life of the unforgettable Gore Vidal. Jay Parini, in his Empire of Self, creates a vivid portrayal of one of America’s most accomplished, visible, and controversial novelists and cultural figures. With his unique bond spanning over three decades, Parini unravels the complex emotional and sexual truths behind the iconic Vidal, all while unearthing a dazzling ensemble of notable incidents, famous faces, and lasting accomplishments.

This enlightening biography takes us on a grand tour of the author’s life with unprecedented access to his private papers. Don’t miss the chance to witness the fascinating narrative of Vidal, his feuds, and his profound impact on American literature.

  • Authors: Jay Parini
  • Publisher: Anchor
  • Published Date: October 13, 2015
  • Page Count: 480
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Average Rating: 1.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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9. Creation

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A Novel

“Creation, “ a masterful work by the celebrated Gore Vidal, takes us on a sweeping journey through the 5th century B. C. , delivering a panoramic glimpse of history filled with love, war, philosophy, and adventure. With its rich tapestry of characters, from towering historical figures to ordinary men and women, the novel offers a vivid depiction of a time marked by great change and transformation.

Vidal’s signature wit, piercing insights, and keen observations bring this era to life, crafting a tale that is not only informative but also delightful to every reader. “Creation” is a testament to Vidal’s extraordinary storytelling ability, sure to enthrall readers from start to finish.

  • Authors: Gore Vidal
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: August 22, 2018
  • Page Count: 592
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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