Philip José Farmer

Philip José Farmer was an American author known for his prolific and innovative contributions to the science fiction and fantasy genres. His work often explored complex themes such as sexuality, religion, and the human condition, often through the use of imaginative and elaborate world-building. Farmer is perhaps best known for his Riverworld series, where all of humanity is resurrected along the banks of a mysterious and endless river. He was also known for writing the World of Tiers series and for his pastiches that involved classical fictional characters in new settings, such as 'The Other Log of Phileas Fogg'. Farmer's work earned him multiple Hugo Awards and he has left a lasting legacy in the world of speculative fiction.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. A Feast Unknown

    Cover of 'A Feast Unknown' by Philip José Farmer

    "A Feast Unknown" is a controversial and explicit novel that blends elements of adventure, science fiction, and eroticism. The story follows two immortal brothers, who are thinly veiled analogs of popular pulp fiction heroes, as they are compelled by a mysterious force to engage in a brutal and sexualized conflict with one another. The narrative delves into themes of power, masculinity, and the nature of violence, set against a backdrop of a secret society and a world teeming with danger and intrigue. As the brothers grapple with their fates and the curse of their eternal life, the book pushes the boundaries of traditional genre storytelling, challenging readers with its graphic content and unconventional approach to its characters' legacies.

    The 3782nd Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. Venus On The Half Shell

    Cover of 'Venus On The Half Shell' by Philip José Farmer

    This novel follows the interstellar adventures of Simon Wagstaff, narrowly escaping the destruction of Earth, as he embarks on a quest for the meaning of life across the cosmos. Along his journey, Wagstaff encounters a myriad of bizarre creatures and civilizations, each offering their own philosophies and ways of life. A satirical homage to the science fiction genre, the narrative is filled with humor, existential inquiry, and a deep dive into the absurdity and wonder of the universe. The protagonist's quest is both a physical and metaphysical one, leading readers through a richly imagined galaxy that mirrors the diversity and complexity of life itself.

    The 4396th Greatest Book of All Time

  3. 3. To Your Scattered Bodies Go

    Cover of 'To Your Scattered Bodies Go' by Philip José Farmer

    In this science fiction novel, every human who has ever lived is resurrected along the banks of an enigmatic river on an unknown planet. The protagonist, a 19th-century explorer, awakens in this afterlife and quickly discovers that he is not alone. Surrounded by historical figures and ordinary people from all eras and cultures, he must navigate a new existence where basic needs are met but the greater mysteries of this world—such as who is responsible for the resurrection and the purpose of this second life—remain unsolved. As he forms alliances and seeks answers, he also contends with the darker aspects of human nature that persist in this strange hereafter.

    The 5890th Greatest Book of All Time

  4. 4. The Lovers

    Cover of 'The Lovers' by Philip José Farmer

    This science fiction novel explores the boundaries of love, society, and identity through the story of Hal Yarrow, a linguist living in a future Earth governed by a puritanical theocracy. Sent on a mission to translate the language of an alien race on the planet Ozagen, Yarrow encounters Jeanette, a human-alien hybrid, challenging his beliefs and the laws of his society. Their forbidden relationship not only defies the strict moral codes of Earth but also leads Yarrow to question the nature of humanity and love itself. The novel delves into themes of repression, freedom, and the transformative power of love, set against a backdrop of interstellar exploration and cultural conflict.

    The 9361st Greatest Book of All Time

  5. 5. The Unreasoning Mask

    Cover of 'The Unreasoning Mask' by Philip José Farmer

    The novel centers around the journey of Ramstan, captain of the al-Buraq, a spaceship capable of interstellar travel through a process that defies the laws of physics. The story unfolds as Ramstan becomes embroiled in a cosmic quest to stop a mysterious, destructive force that threatens the universe. His mission is complicated by personal demons, including his own faith and morality, as well as the diverse and often conflicting motives of his crew. As they traverse exotic locations and encounter alien civilizations, the crew grapples with profound philosophical questions and the very nature of existence, leading to a climax that challenges the boundaries of perception and reality.

    The 10070th Greatest Book of All Time