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A Writer of Many Names on His Detective Fiction and Life as a Teacher.

Ed McBain (also known as Evan Hunter), prolific writer of detective fiction, best known for his "87th Precinct" series of police procedurals and mystery novels. His most recent novel is titled Tricks. McBain writes in other genres under different pseudonyms.

09:45
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Other segments from the episode on October 20, 1987

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, October 20, 1987: Interview with Father Niall O'Brien; Commentary on The Stooges; Interview with Ed McBain; Review of John Conroy's book "Belfast Diary."
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27:53

Father Niall O'Brien's "Revolution from the Heart."

Father Niall O'Brien. He has worked for over 20 years as a missionary priest in the Philippines. He was imprisoned by the Marcos regime because he helped the poor to start self-reliant Christian communities. He continues his work in the Philippines under the Aquino government.

Interview
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06:59

The "True" Fathers of Punk.

Rock historian Ed Ward profiles The Stooges, A Detroit group that was pioneered punk, even before the famed British punk bands.

Commentary
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03:49

Chronicle of Ireland's "Troubles."

Book Critic John Leonard reviews Belfast Diary, the non-fiction account of the civil war that has flared through Northern Ireland. The author is Chicago journalist John Conroy.

Review

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22:12

Ed McBain Discusses Writing His Mystery Novels.

Mystery writer Ed McBain (also known as Evan Hunter). He's known for his finely detailed "87th Precinct" mysteries. Mystery fans call McBain's books "procedurals" for their close attention to police procedures. McBain also wrote, under a his real name (which he legally changed in 1952), the screenplay for the movie, "The Blackboard Jungle." (Interview by Sedge Thomson)

Interview
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03:38

Robert Parker Succeeds in Completing Chandler's "Poodle Springs."

Book critic Maureen Corrigan reviews "Poodle Springs," the novel Raymond Chandler was working on at the time of his death. The story finds Chandler's famous detective Philip Marlowe married and living in Poodle Springs. Writer Robert Parker has just finished the novel that Chandler started 30 years ago.

Review

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