October 9, 1990

John Updike Brings Rabbit to Rest

Book critic John Leonard reviews the fourth, and final installment in John Updike's Rabbit novels, Rabbit at Rest. Leonard says the first book was nearly perfect; this one is too concerned with capturing every aspect of the 1980s -- whether or not those references serve the story.

03:56

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Contributor

John Leonard

Other segments from the episode on October 9, 1990

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, October 9, 1990: Interview with Blaine Harden; Commentary on John Lennon's musical influences; Interview with Steve O'Donnell; Review of John Updike's novel "Rabbit at…

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October 9, 1990

24:07

Reporter Blaine Harden's "Dispatches from a Fragile Continent"

Harden was the bureau chief for the Washington Post in sub-Saharan Africa from 1985-1989. His new book, called Africa, talks about the continent's growing population, strong man rule, and how tribal and familial communities fill needs neglected by the government.

Interview

Blaine Harden

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October 9, 1990

06:07

John Lennon's Early Influences

On the occasion of what would have been the Beatle's 50th birthday, rock historian Ed Ward considers what bands and song may have influenced Lennon before he started his legendary group with Paul McCartney.

Commentary

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October 9, 1990

10:52

Letterman's Top Ten Gag Endures After 500 Shows

Steve O'Donnell, the head writer for Late Night with David Letterman, writes many of the program's top ten lists. A new book compiles the best of these, called, simply, The Late Night with David Letterman Book of Top Ten Lists.

Interview

Steve O'Donnell

Transcript

Transcripts are created on a rush deadline, and accuracy and availability may vary. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Please be aware that the authoritative record of Fresh Air interviews and reviews are the audio recordings of each segment.

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John Updike Brings Rabbit to Rest

Contributor

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Other segments from the episode on October 9, 1990

Reporter Blaine Harden's "Dispatches from a Fragile Continent"

John Lennon's Early Influences

Letterman's Top Ten Gag Endures After 500 Shows

Transcript

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