Terry Gross

Theroux's extensive travels have taken him through Africa, Asia and Central America. In his earlier writings, a central theme of his work was the ironic examination of the clashing and mingling of Western and Third World cultures. His new book, "My Other Life" (Houghton Bufflin) is a work of fiction about a character named Paul Theroux, based on his experiences and encounters as a world traveler. His interview was recorded at the Free Library in Philadelphia

Actor Bruno Kirbly and playwright Alan Zweibel. Zweibel wrote the play "Bunny Bunny" about his friendship with Gilda Radner, whom he met while working on "Saturday Night Live." Their friendship lasted the rest of her life. The play is on view through December 1st at Plays and Players Theatre in a Philadelphia. Kirby plays Zweibel in the play.

Munro has a new collection called "Selected Stories." Her work has appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic Monthly, and The Paris Review. She's written seven previous short story collections, and has received Canada's highest literary prize three times.