Odd Thomas is the first novel in the Odd Thomas Series. It serves as the foundation for the following six books by introducing key elements that shape Odd’s journey throughout the series. The reader is introduced to the titular character, a young fry cook with a unique ability to see and communicate with the dead. Odd is initially portrayed as an unassuming and modest individual, even with his extraordinary gift. Although he begins the series as relatively innocent, he is forced to kill one of the antagonists by the book’s conclusion. This sets the tone for the rest of the series, as Odd grapples with darker requirements on his mission to help both the living and the dead.

The book also establishes Odd’s goal to be reunited with Stormy in the afterlife. He closes this novel by saying that doing so will require perseverance and proof of his dedication to helping people.