March 28-April 3, 2002
books
Having created the sly, sarcastic investigative reporter Fletch, star of nine novels (three of which are newly reissued by Black Lizard) and two Chevy Chase movies, Tennessee author Gregory McDonald is probably better known for his skills as a humorist than as a crafter of mystery. But he is indeed a skilled a mystery writer, well decorated and well respected among fans and other writers not only for his sexy plots, flawed characters and snappy dialogue. McDonald is also noteworthy for his resistance to what he calls "the game" -- a conscious decision to "be neither a New Yorker nor a Californian" in attitude or residence. By remaining an outsider from the easier routes to fame and fortune, McDonald has maintained a credibility that neither the success of the first Fletch movie nor the stupidity of Fletch Lives could taint. The second movie, by the way, was not based on one of his books.
Gregory McDonald lecture, Thu., March 28, 8 p.m., Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine St., 215-567-4341, www.library.phila.gov.
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