One of my all-time favourite books. Don't let the film put you off - saying that, I haven't seen it so that I wouldn't be put off!
Robbins is an exceptional writer: his style is positive, uplifting, educational, honest, sensual, encapsulating joie de vivre.
In this book, Sissy Hankshaw is a typically strong, unconventional female character who follows a Jack Kerouac inspired trek, eventually meeting Jellybean Bonanza (what a name!) on a cowgirl ranch for the climax (tic), plus the usual Robbins male guru to help see the light. There is some girlie action, which makes some folks inclined to believe that it's just a 'gay' book, but there's much more to the story than that and should appeal to all with Robbins enchanting his readers to be open-minded. Even 'squares' would secretly dig it!!
This book really inspires and cheers me up. I've often lent it to friends - both male and female, straight or gay - and haven't got it back!! I don't mind and buy it again and again... and keep lending it and spreading the word(s): HA HA HO HO AND HEE HEE.