Robert B. Parker began writing in 1971 while teaching at Boston’s Northeastern University. Now as the author of nearly 50 books, he is acknowledged as the dean of American crime fiction and was named Grand Master by the Mystery Writers of America (2002). His novels featuring the Boston private-eye Spenser have earned him a devoted following and reams of critical acclaim. The Spenser character inspired the television series 'Spenser: For Hire' and two made-for-television films. He answers a bevy of questions about his writing career and his latest novel 'Melancholy Baby' (Putnam, Sept. 2004) at the 2004 National Book Festival. From the Series:The Library of Congress: 2004 National Book Festival