Perry Robinson: The Traveler

by Florence Wetzel

The autobiography of legendary jazz clarinetist Perry Robinson.

Jazz clarinetist Perry Robinson has led a most unusual life, and his autobiography Perry Robinson: The Traveler is the story of Perry's adventures in the world of jazz and beyond.

The book is full of anecdotes about jazz musicians such as Dave Brubeck, Sonny Rollins, Paul Desmond, Benny Goodman, Chet Baker, Archie Shepp, Albert Ayler, William Parker, and many others.

The book also includes Perry's encounters with a wide variety of personalities, including his cousin actor Alan Arkin, rock drummer Ginger Baker, and socialite Marylou Whitney, among others.

Not for jazz fans only, The Traveler is a fascinating story of one man's explorations in the worlds of music, mysticism, and magic.

Paperback

First published March 1, 2002

About the author

Florence Wetzel was born 1962 in Brooklyn, NY. Her latest book, Aspasia: A Novel of Suspense and Secrets, was published in July 2025. Her book Sara My Sara: A Memoir of Friendship and Loss, was published in July 2024. Her novels include the thriller The Woman Who Went Overboard, the Swedish mystery The Grand Man, and Dashiki: A Cozy Mystery. She has also authored a horror short story collection, a book of poems and memoirs, and co-authored jazz clarinetist Perry Robinson's autobiography.

Reviews

[Michael Fitzgerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than you could ever want to know about the fascinating life of clarinetist Perry Robinson. You will be amazed at the connections to all kinds of unexpected people! Discography by yours truly.