The River Why
by David James Duncan
The River Why by David James Duncan holds a highly rated rating of 4.24 out of 5, based on 7.7K reader ratings. First published in 1983. The book spans 304 pages.
About The River Why
This captivating and exuberant tale is told by Gus Orviston, an irreverent young fly fisherman and one of the most appealing heroes in contemporary American fiction. Leaving behind a madcap, fishing-obsessed family, Gus decides to strike out on his own, taking refuge in a secluded cabin on a remote riverbank to pursue his own fly-fishing passion with unrelenting zeal. But instead of finding fishing bliss, Gus becomes increasingly troubled by the degradation of the natural world around him and by the spiritual barrenness of his own life. His desolation drives him on a reluctant quest for self-discovery and meaning, ultimately fruitful beyond his wildest dreams. Here, then, is a funny, sensitive, unforgettable story about the relationships among men, women, the environment, and the human soul.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Author | David James Duncan |
| Published | 1983 |
| Pages | 304 |
| Genres | Fiction, Philosophy, Classics |
| Average Rating | 4.24 / 5.00 |
| Total Ratings | 7,735 |
Reader Ratings & Analysis
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Frequently Asked Questions
What genre is The River Why?
The River Why is categorized as Fiction, Philosophy, Classics. Its primary genre classification is Classics.
Is The River Why worth reading?
Based on 7.7K reader ratings, The River Why has an average score of 4.24 out of 5.00, which is considered "Highly Rated."
How many pages is The River Why?
The River Why has 304 pages.
Who wrote The River Why?
The River Why was written by David James Duncan. It was first published in 1983.
What is the ISBN for The River Why?
The ISBN-13 for The River Why is 9780553344870.0.
Data sourced from community book ratings and reviews. Last updated: April 15, 2026
