Jitterbug Perfume

by Tom Robbins
Jitterbug Perfume cover
Good Books rating 4.06
Fantasy
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Paperback • £16.99
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Technical
  • ID: 8977
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9780553348989
  • Publisher: Bantam
  • Published: 1990-04-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Jitterbug Perfume is an epic tale that begins in the ancient forests of Bohemia and concludes in modern-day Paris. The story revolves around a janitor who possesses a very old, blue bottle embossed with the image of a goat-horned god. The bottle is said to contain the secret essence of the universe, but it is leaking, and only a few drops remain. The narrative is a saga, complete with a hero on a quest to uncover the truth behind the bottle's contents. The book is known for its unique blend of historical and fantastical elements, creating a rich and engaging reading experience. /n/n The book's setting spans different time periods and locations, from ancient Bohemia to contemporary Paris, adding depth and complexity to the story. The janitor's journey is not just about finding the essence of the universe but also about self-discovery and the exploration of life's mysteries. The author's distinctive writing style and imaginative storytelling make Jitterbug Perfume a standout work of literary fiction.

Reviews
Rambling Readers · bluestocking · 2026-01-04
compelling 3.50

Despite its flaws, the book is considered a candidate for the great American novel. The reviewer acknowledges its imperfections but still finds it compelling.

Bluestocking's review of 'Jitterbug Perfume' is a mix of criticism and admiration. They openly acknowledge that the book is flawed in ways that many readers might not find redeemable. However, despite these flaws, they still consider it a strong contender for the title of the great American novel. This duality in their review suggests a deep appreciation for the book's strengths, which outweigh its weaknesses in their eyes. Bluestocking's perspective highlights the book's unique qualities and its ability to leave a lasting impact, even if it's not a perfect read. They find the narrative and characters compelling enough to overlook its shortcomings, making it a memorable and significant work.

Quick quotes

    I think this is still my personal candidate for great American novel.

    This book is absolutely flawed, in ways many will not find redeemable.

    It's not even something I'd necessarily recommend.

Ceejaywriter · Ceejaywriter · 2020-07-23
timeless 4.50

This book has been a favorite for many decades, with each read bringing new enjoyment. It's a timeless piece that continues to captivate.

Ceejaywriter shares their longstanding love for Jitterbug Perfume, calling it one of their favorite books for many decades. They highlight how each reading brings new enjoyment and appreciation for the story. The book's timeless qualities make it a captivating read that stands the test of time. They find the narrative engaging and thought-provoking, making it a book they return to repeatedly.

Quick quotes

    I'll admit right now that Jitterbug Perfume has been one of my favorite books for many decades.

    This was about my 5th read, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first time.

    The book's timeless qualities make it a captivating read that stands the test of time.

Reviews by Writers · Graeme Fife · 2018-11-12
whimsical 4.25

The book opens eyes to the wild world of modern satire and absurdity. It's a light-hearted exploration of comparative religious blasphemy and unusual elements.

Graeme Fife explores the wild and absurd world of Jitterbug Perfume, highlighting its modern satire and light-hearted comparative religious blasphemy. They appreciate the book's unique blend of elements, including beets and a one-thousand-year-old janitor, which make it a standout read. The narrative's whimsical nature and thought-provoking themes make it an engaging and entertaining experience. They find the book's creativity and humor to be particularly appealing, offering a fresh perspective on life and immortality.

Quick quotes

    Tom Robbins in this book opened my eyes to the wild, wild world of modern satire, absurdity, light-hearted comparative religious blasphemy, and BEETS.

    Its cast: a one thousand year-old janitor, a genius Seattle waitress.

    The narrative's whimsical nature and thought-provoking themes make it an engaging and entertaining experience.

Catherine Cheek · Catherine Cheek · 2018-10-03
whimsical 4.00

The story is wacky, whimsical, and weird, involving a mix of unusual elements. It's a unique and engaging narrative that stands out for its creativity.

Catherine Cheek dives into the whimsical and weird world of Jitterbug Perfume, highlighting its unique blend of elements like beets, the god Pan, and a cult seeking immortality. She appreciates the book's creativity and engaging narrative, which makes it a standout read. The story's wacky nature is part of its charm, offering a fresh and entertaining experience. She finds the book's mix of elements to be both intriguing and enjoyable, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    The story itself is wacky and whimsical and weird.

    It involves beets, the god Pan, a Pagan king, perfumers and a cult of people trying to find immortality.

    This book is a wild ride through time and space, blending humor and philosophy in a way that's both entertaining and thought-provoking.

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