About the book
The classic novel of fly fishing and spirituality republished with a new Afterword by the author.
Since its publication in 1983, The River Why has become a classic. David James Duncan's sweeping novel is a coming-of-age comedy about love, nature, and the quest for self-discovery, written in a voice as distinct and powerful as any in American letters.
Gus Orviston is a young fly fisherman who leaves behind his comically schizoid family to find his own path. Taking refuge in a remote cabin, he sets out in pursuit of the Pacific Northwest's elusive steelhead. But what begins as a physical quarry becomes a spiritual one as his quest for self-knowledge batters him with unforeseeable experiences.
Profoundly reflective about our connection to nature and to one another, The River Why is also a comedic rollercoaster. Like Gus, the reader emerges utterly changed, stripped bare by the journey Duncan so expertly navigates.
Editions of River Why
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780316261227
- EBook
- ISBN 9780316261210
Read an Excerpt
The classic novel of fly fishing and spirituality republished with a new Afterword by the author.
Since its publication in 1983, The River Why has become a classic. David James Duncan's sweeping novel is a coming-of-age comedy about love, nature, and the quest for self-discovery, written in a voice as distinct and powerful as any in American letters.
Gus Orviston is a young fly fisherman who leaves behind his comically schizoid family to find his own path. Taking refuge in a remote cabin, he sets out in pursuit of the Pacific Northwest's elusive steelhead. But what begins as a physical quarry becomes a spiritual one as his quest for self-knowledge batters him with unforeseeable experiences.
Profoundly reflective about our connection to nature and to one another, The River Why is also a comedic rollercoaster. Like Gus, the reader emerges utterly changed, stripped bare by the journey Duncan so expertly navigates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is River Why about?
The classic novel of fly fishing and spirituality republished with a new Afterword by the author.
Since its publication in 1983, The River Why has become a classic. David James Duncan's sweeping novel is a coming-of-age comedy about love, nature, and the quest for self-discovery, written in a voice as distinct and powerful as any in American letters.
Gus Orviston is a young fly fisherman who leaves behind his comically schizoid family to find his own path. Taking refuge in a remote cabin, he sets out in pursuit of the Pacific Northwest's elusive steelhead. But what begins as a physical quarry becomes a spiritual one as his quest for self-knowledge batters him with unforeseeable experiences.
Profoundly reflective about our connection to nature and to one another, The River Why is also a comedic rollercoaster. Like Gus, the reader emerges utterly changed, stripped bare by the journey Duncan so expertly navigates.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in River Why?
Fiction > Fiction: literary and general non-genre
Where can I read a sample of River Why?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780316261227
Who is/are the Author/s of the book River Why?
David James Duncan
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
River Why is available as paperback(ISBN 9780316261227) and ebook(ISBN 9780316261210)
Where can I buy River Why online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy River Why from below
Where can I buy River Why?