Night-table Reading

David Halberstam

(journalist, author):

The Irreversible Decline of Eddie Socket,by John Weir (HarperPerennial).

"A brilliant, funny, lyrical novel about young gay men in the time of AIDS. The voice, at once both young and old, reminded me of war novels by young writers who had seen too much death too early. "

Vanessa Williams (singer, actress): "I've been so busy, between the movies and the new album, and trying to keep up with my two kids, ages three and two, l read whatever l find on parenting, wherever I find it."

Barry Gifford (author):

Orpheus Descending,by Tennessee Williams (New Directions).

"There is no one closer to the poetic truth than Tennessee Williams. "

Albert Gore Jr. (U.S. senator):Iron John: A Book About Men,by Robert Bly (A ddisonWesley).

"I saw a Bill Moyers show that featured Robert Bly, and I was so impressed / got the book. "