First published in 1978 by New York: Dutton, this book and all its editions are available on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, Kindle, audiobook, at local libraries, or through the Libby app.

Even if you’ve read this one before, the dry, sarcastic wit found within its pages always merits a reread. Irving’s writing style mixes grand, prosaic descriptions with hidden plot twists, short intermissions between gut-punch moments that leave readers in states of wonderment, laughter, or stupor. This masterpiece of free love, emancipation, and parenthood isn’t different.

T.S. Garp might seem like a deadbeat, but it’s that exact trait that creates his appeal. He’s real. A life from conception to death. A story full of humanity, both light and dark humor, Irving gives readers insight into the human condition. Sex, freaks, handicaps, stories-within-stories, violence, hilarity, charm all rolled into one in this eccentric tale of self-awareness.

The story jumps from serious to caricatures, putting quirks of character at the forefront. It’ll break readers’ hearts, mend it, and break it again. The perfect 5-star read.