William Maxwell: A Literary Life Book

"We have done our work with honesty and love," editor William Shawn consoled his grieving staff on his last day, having been abruptly fired from The New Yorker by its brash new corporate owner in 1987 after more than three decades. "Remembering Mr. Shawn's New Yorker" is a very moving and honorable story by Ved Mehta, who spent 33 years writing for the magazine. As "Mr. Shawn" did with many of his writers, he fostered a very close, gentle relationship with the young blind Ved, born in Lahore, British India, having just completed his college studies. Most writers will like this book, especially if they've had the good fortune of working with a good editor who respected, nourished and refined their work. This book is a reminder that for brief shining moments there are times, mentors - and publications - that we once cherished.