What if On the Road met The X-Files? That’s the intriguing premise behind Skunk Ape Semester, the novel from award-winning author Mike Robinson. A blend of cryptozoology, philosophy, and speculative fiction, this book takes readers on a road trip through the strangest corners of America.
Robinson’s protagonist, a zoologist and astrology professor, has spent years privately investigating Bigfoot, driven by an encounter he had as a child. After a career shake-up, he embarks on a journey to track down cryptids, speaking with people who claim to have witnessed these elusive creatures.
But the novel is more than a monster hunt—it’s an exploration of belief, identity, and our relationship with the unknown.
During his appearance on Books That Make You, Robinson shared his passion for speculative fiction and the way it allows writers to ask deep, existential questions. He also discussed his broader literary influences, from Stephen King to Ralph Waldo Emerson, and his growing interest in eco-fantasy—stories that connect supernatural elements with nature.
Beyond his fiction, Robinson is a dedicated editor and book coach, helping aspiring authors develop their craft. His work emphasizes the importance of reading widely, embracing curiosity, and allowing creativity to take unexpected forms.
