F.P.A.: The Life and Times of Franklin Pierce Adams

F.P.A.: The Life and Times of Franklin Pierce Adams by Ashley, Sally. hardcover edition. ISBN: 9780825302565.

For the first time the colorful life of an American original is explored in this entertaining and moving biography of F.P.A. Franklin Pierce Adams was one of the most influential and durable newspapermen of this century. His column, "The Conning Tower," was studded year after year with contributions selected by F.P.A. from among budding unknowns and already established writers who wanted to be recognized as "insiders." And, in doing this, he became the mentor to an era. Among his selections were James Thurber, Robert Benchley, and George S. Kaufman, whose work, among that of many others, was featured in his column which appeared daily for over thirty-five consecutive years. F.P.A. started writing for the Chicago Journal in 1903 and ended up with the New York Post in 1941.