The novels of Tom Robbins, hedonist sage that he is, are bizarre conglomerates of child-like fascination, philosophical introspection, and chasing tail – all blended to frothy, transcendent, Robbins-esque perfection.
“Tibetan Peach Pie: A True Account of an Imaginative Life,” is no exception. It is a glimpse into Robbins’ own life, which has been unquestionably as curious as that of his characters. It hops from his self-appointed “hillbilly” childhood during the Great Depression to ingenious ways of shirking his duties during a stint in Korea. He’ll regal you with tales of his rise as writer and art critic, his extensive global meanderings (including being king for a day to a tribe of cannibals), and going to great lengths to lift a curse placed on him in Timbuktu.
It’ll make you laugh ’til it hurts. It’ll prompt you to read passages aloud to whomever is within earshot. In the end, you’ll come away with a new appreciation for Robbins, and have a smile on your face as the last page turns. If you are a fan of Robbins’ novels, you’ll love this glimpse into the life of the man himself.
Keena KimmelOwner of White Rabbit Books and Curiosities