The Persistent Appeal Of The 1965 John Williams Novel 'Stoner'
"Stoner" seemed destined for obscurity when it was first published. But the book sold over a million copies in Europe and is beloved by a number of literary critics.
When the John Williams novel “Stoner” was published in 1965, it sold only a few thousand copies and seemed destined for obscurity. But the book sold over a million copies in Europe and is beloved by a number of literary critics, including Steve Almond, who’s published a new appreciation, “William Stoner and the Battle for the Inner Life.” Here & Now‘s Robin Young talks with Almond (@stevealmondjoy) about the books.
Book Excerpt: ‘William Stoner And The Battle For The Inner Life’
by Steve Almond
In the autumn of 1995, at the age of 28, I abandoned a career in journalism to pursue the dubious goal of writing short stories. My selection of a graduate program was eased considerably by the paucity of my talent. I
