The novel follows Switters, a rebellious CIA operative who sees himself as an "angel" working against the agency's more aggressive "cowboys." A spiritual seeker and anarchist, Switters meditates, experiments with drugs, and reflects deeply on language and modern society.
While traveling to Peru on a CIA mission, he agrees to return his grandmother's parrot to the Amazon. There, he encounters a tribal shaman who introduces him to mystical knowledge during a hallucinatory experience. After this revelation, Switters is cursed: he must never again place his feet on solid ground or face death. This bizarre condition launches him on a global journey—from Peru to Seattle, Syria, and Vatican City—filled with love, adventure, spiritual exploration, and surreal events.
The novel blends satire, philosophy, and comedy. Robbins critiques political and religious institutions, consumer culture, and modern spiritual emptiness, while celebrating laughter, joy, and playful living. Known for his lush and inventive prose, Robbins fills the story with vivid language and imaginative reflections. Though some critics see his style as self-indulgent, fans admire the novel's wit, energy, and "mindful playfulness."
