Regarded as one of Europe's leading writers, Tabucchi is an Italian who has long called Portugal home. He has been widely translated, his works highly praised. The thing about this writer is his deceptively simple novels somehow manage to reach out and grasp large issues. His anger against fascism is evident, but never forced. He always has a point to make, but refuses to scream to make himself heard.

JOHN UPDIKE

Rabbit, Run (1960), Rabbit Redux (1971), Rabbit is Rich (1981), Rabbit At Rest (1990). These novels are all you need to experience John Hoyer Updike -- American novelist, poet, short story writer. They follow the life and times of star athlete Harry 'Rabbit' Angstrom, from youth to his final decline.

Some refer to Updike as an American institution. And they are not far off the mark.

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