The Red Truck

by Rudy Wilson

Presents the author's colorful and eerie first novel.

178 pages, Paperback

First published May 12, 1987

Reviews

[Caulen]

Definitely the strangest novel I've read in a long time. It barely makes sense to me after one reading... it's like a drugged dream told by someone who sees the world through such a detached/lost lens... and constantly searching (for Jesus?). I've read that this book was really edited down by Gordon Lish - I'm almost afraid to know what else was in it. The only thing I can compare this to is a Thomas Ligotti story (though this isn't horror): the lonely separation from the world/surroundings; very little description -- though Rudy Wilson writes in a more poetic/experimental manner than Ligotti.

I guess I also would compare it to Pedro Paramo in that the presence of a spirit - in this case the brother of the main narrator who died in a childhood accident - plays a major role in the book. Billy-Billy Jump (the main narrator/character) creates a character (Tedianne) in his head and they grow apart, occasionally via narration shifts.

Definitely need to read this again... it's one of those rare books that will always stay with me though. Deeply disturbing in a subtle way.

[Eamon Loingsigh]

In a time when so many authors concern themselves with respectability, Wilson opens his soul and tells you how he really feels. Of course too many people see this as weakness which, for me, underscores a bigger problem in the industry. If honesty and clarity of feeling is not appreciated now, the Gods will certainly look on him as a writer to be considered for many generations, unlike so many short-sighted authors vying for university appointments to lighten their financial and emotional burdens.

Eamon Loingsigh

[PaperBird]

Did a review of this book here: https://youtu.be/UKSVa8VO-g8

[Nicholas Finch]

It's all very simple. Rudy Wilson is a genius. The Red Truck is a masterpiece.

[Teresa]

DNF at about halfway through. What the heck!?! This book is totally bizarre. I couldn't take any more.

[Elisabeth]

As disturbing, and as brilliant, as anything by Cormac McCarthy or Steinbeck. Like all literary geniuses, Rudy Wilson won't be properly appreciated until long after he's left this life. Then his work will be required reading.

[in8]

http://5cense.com/delish_trop_goth.htm

[Art]

this can be a difficult read, but worth it. the moments that tug at your guts latch on for much longer than the time it takes to finish the book. i could go on, but maybe you should just read it.

[Rachel d.]

It was so strange.. i had to read, and keep going. i have no justification.

[Davis Stamford]

Fascinating book. I liked it a lot. Full of powerful emotions and no googoo trickery.

[Rebecca]

The best.