Last month, well-known novelist Tom Robbins published his latest book, entitled “B Is for Beer.” The publisher’s website describes it as “A Children’s Book About Beer?”
Yes, believe it or not—but B Is for Beer is also a book for adults, and bear in mind that it’s the work of maverick bestselling novelist Tom Robbins, inter-nationally known for his ability to both seriously illuminate and comically entertain.
Once upon a time (right about now) there was a planet (how about this one?) whose inhabitants consumed thirty-six billion gallons of beer each year (it’s a fact, you can Google it). Among those affected, each in his or her own way, by all the bubbles, burps, and foam, was a smart, wide-eyed, adventurous kindergartner named Gracie; her distracted mommy; her insensitive dad; her non-conformist uncle; and a magical, butt-kicking intruder from a world within our world.
Populated by the aforementioned characters—and as charming as it may be subversive—B Is for Beer involves readers, young and old, in a surprising, far-reaching investigation into the limits of reality, the transformative powers of children, and, of course, the ultimate meaning of a tall, cold brewski.
Having just finished reading the 125-page novella, I can say it’s a fun read and I heartily recommend it.
Tom got me to hitchhike from Oklahoma to living in the Virgin Islands by way of hitting the ocean at the tip of Florida and finding a boat that took aboard thumbs and cooks who know how to make southern gravy. I have chased, dated, fell in love with, and been broken by redheads. I have tried every drug with every type of medicine man and shamen I have found. I am a hot mess breathing like a bandaloop, wearing patchouli (tried the Beat), and fucking like Pan. I think I had just took acid and finished with Heinlein’s Stranger when I wrecked my dad’s motorcycle and had time to kill. Of course I found Tom’s stories at that tender age and frame of mind. I was in need of Jesus and found him instead. Mix in reading the Illuminatus Trilogy between any of the long waits for the next novel. I dare you. My friends and I hold CRAFT as often as possible. I also have James Joyce stuck in my head, smoke Camels, troubled with very young women, love Bring In The Clowns, eat a whole lot of Mayo! I give Tom a HUGE thumbs up! My children and I love B is for Beer!
Great reading this children book for grownups and grownup book for children. One of TR’s best renditions of his deep humanity and great goofy wisdom. Enjoy!