Otto Presents Donald E. Westlake

[@gottadomor7438]

Late 1990s, on a lark, I flew to NYC attend a bookstore gathering Westlake was going to be feted - informally; he was friends w/ the owners, a lovely couple. Such short notice, didn't even reserve a hotel room before leaving for. One of the most enjoyable evenings of my life. 8-10 upper east side New York book lovers & a goofy Donald E Westlake devotee from Chicago, me. Thank you for this video ... Finding a hotel bed, late in a, "Big Apple" afternoon, w/o knowing your way around, could've been a Westlake short story comedy itself, but all's well ended well. An adventure not forgotten still. Rest in peace DEW, as easy going in person as enjoyable reading in a book.

[@angusorvid8840]

I got into Westlake in the early 90s when I was running out of stuff to read. I couldn't believe it had taken me that long to get around to his work! I was elated to discover his work, through great books like Kahawa, The Dortmunder novels, his Start series, etc. Just a total pro who knew how to work humor with intrigue. He is the all-time master of the caper, which is my favorite sort of crime novel. There is nothing like the Dortmunder series. While Dortmunder may be a real mastermind, his cohorts are some of the most hilarious schmucks I've ever encountered in all my years of reading. Drowned Hopes is one of the funniest in the series.

[@theprofessor5253]

I have several of your anthologies Otto and I am thrilled to discover these videos. Please keep them coming!

[@SidLaw500]

Dancing Aztecs is a special book. Brilliantly conceived slapstick humor that carries the narrative while delivering a meaningful message to the reader.

[@HunchbackJack]

Thank you for recounting your history with Mr. Westlake. I’m a relatively newcomer to his work - I’ve mostly read Richard Stark, but am starting to read his other titles. The Parker novels are really something special.

[@benjaminfisher5351]

Most of his work is humorous, and if you have a sense of humor, WELL worth. I love Stark and Parker too. The Grofields are pretty great blending the Stark with the Westlake. And as Otto said, Dortmunder is the fully comedic Parker. Hope your westlake journey is going well!

[@4-dman464]

Wonderful vid. And a terrific writer. MEMORY is a revelation that was recommended to director Jim Jarmusch by friend and writer ( and another New York connection) Luc Sante. Jim Jarmusch then recommended MEMORY on a Criterion DVD extra feature last year (2020) on his film Ghost Dog. What a profound book. Here's hoping Jarmusch takes an option on filming it.

[@sederic68]

Thank you.

[@johnalbert5786]

I never miss a Wednesday! 👍🏼

[@stevenritterman8216]

KAHAWA - Grand adventure at its best...

[@angusorvid8840]

Thanks for mentioning it! I'm always recommended that book to people. An absolute masterpiece, so incredibly enjoyable.

[@rickcroucher]

Was PARTY GIRL one of his soft porn novels back in the late 50's? I'm asking for a friend.