Writers at Work

Robert Hilburn

This episode of Writers at Work features Robert Hilburn, author of A FEW WORDS IN DEFENSE OF OUR COUNTRY, the biography of Randy Newman. Bob is best known for his work for the Los Angeles Times, where during his four decades with the paper, he became the dean of American rock music writers, winning the loyalty of his readers and the trust of the artists he covered.
 
It would be easier to list the musicians Bob didn't write about during his tenure. He bore witness to many of rock and pop music's most notable events, including Johnny Cash's Folsom Prison performances, Elton John's first tour of Russia, Bob Dylan's first shows in Israel, and a Paul Simon show in Zimbabwe. And of course, if a band played Los Angeles County, Bob was more than likely right there. He wrote about each and all with clarity, humility and an open mind and heart.
 
After leaving the Times in 2006, Bob turned his attention to books. His first, CORNFLAKES WITH JOHN LENNON, reveals how he came to know the era's most famous rock icons. Next came biographies of Johnny Cash and Paul Simon. Now we have a study of Randy Newman. I can't tell you how excited I was to read this book; it is the perfect blend of subject and author.

Ruth D Nelson

This episode of Writers at Work features Ruth D. Nelson, art historian and author of OUR LADY OF THE WORLD'S FAIR: BRINGING MICHELANGELO'S "PIETÀ" TO QUEENS IN 1964.
 
Make no mistake, Nelson's book is work of serious scholarship, but it is also a tale of intrigue and suspense as mighty forces struggle to bring or to prevent the export of the Pieta to America. With a deft, confident hand, Nelson introduces us to the major players, like Robert Moses, Pope John XXIII, various members of the hierarchy of the Roman Catholic Church in the US and at the Vatican, and American and Italian business leaders.
 
But there are countless unsung heroes of the saga. And by showing us their contributions, Nelson reveals what a complex operation it was. And then there is the matter of Michelangelo, who created the Pieta before he turned 25. We learn how he came to receive the assignment and what he thought of his masterpiece.
 
We know now, some six decades later, that the Pieta arrived and departed safely and intact. So how did Nelson create her tale of suspense?

Robert Plunket

Conversation with author Robert Plunket

George Pelecanos

Conversation with writer George Pelecanos

Kate Greathead

Conversation with author Kate Greathead

David Morrell and James Grady

Conversation with authors David Morrell and James Grady

Paul Rousseau

Conversation with writer Paul Rousseau

Eddie Muller

Conversation with writer Eddie Muller