The Writers' Compound: The Story of Four American Authors in Key West

NetGalley Review: Holly Senecal: "Completely compelling to read...A glimpse in to the world of a few authors that create the worlds we all enjoy as readers. Fascinating biography, gorgeous setting. A perfect blend and a REALLY good read."GO BEHIND THE WOODEN GATES of the writers' compound in Key West to discover the untold story of four of the most celebrated America authors in the 20th century. Based on anecdotes, events, and conversations gleaned from first-person interviews with other writers and friends who knew them best, The Writers' Compound reveals both the good times and the bitter resentments that confronted these writers on their island paradise. In addition to the fascinating story of these four famous writers, The Writers' Compound also captures both the nostalgia of the period, and the enduring allure of Key West today. The WritersJohn Ciardi: An admitted grouch whose volatile temper and sarcastic wit could eviscerate anyone in his line of fire, but who could also be "extremely entertaining and funny and gregarious." Ralph Ellison: A complicated man who may or may not have been homophobic, but openly admitted that he accepted gays "as long as they were not obvious." John Hersey: Whose distinguished career as a Pulitzer Prize winning author was marred by charges of plagiarism - a charge he reluctantly admitted to but never really accepted. Richard Wilbur: An unabashed free spirit who embraced an island that he found (like the movie Bonnie and Clyde) "morally questionable, but, aesthetically, very pleasing."