In 1998, Alice McDermott's fourth novel, Charming Billy, captured the National Book Award. Few were surprised. McDermott had previously been nominated for two Pulitzers and another N.B.A. But McDermott was so sure she wouldn't win she didn't prepare an acceptance speech. Standing in front of hundreds of the most powerful people in the world of writing, she gracefully … [Read more...] about Alice McDermott
October November 2005 Issue
Frank McCourt
Frank McCourt went from retired New York City high school in a matter of months with the publication of Angela's Ashes, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Biography. Frank managed to save the fare for a boat to America by the age of 19, the point at which Angela's Ashes finishes. He arrived in New York City by ship, on the eve of the Korean War. The young Irish kid was drafted … [Read more...] about Frank McCourt
Donald Keough
Donald Keough's love of Ireland and all things Irish led to his involvement in fostering Ireland's economy. He led several groups of American businessmen, including Warren Buffett, on economic missions to the country over the years.In 1993, Keough retired as president and COO of The Coca-Cola Company, and that same year he and his wife, Marilyn, endowed a chair of Irish Studies … [Read more...] about Donald Keough
Gene Kelly
Gene Kelly got his first big break on Broadway in the Rodgers and Hart musical Pal Joey. He had graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and was operating his successful dance schools in Pittsburgh and in Johnstown, Pennsylvania when he decided to try his luck in New York. Within a short time he landed the part of Harry the Hoofer in William Saroyan's hit The Time of Your … [Read more...] about Gene Kelly
