John Fante

John Fante (1909–1983) was an American writer of Italian immigrant descent. He began writing in the late 1920s and first gained recognition through stories published in magazines. His first novel, “Wait Until Spring, Bandini,” appeared in 1938, followed by “Ask the Dust” in 1939; his other works include the story collection “Dago Red.” During and after World War II, Fante supported himself as a Hollywood screenwriter. His work gained wider recognition later, in part through Charles Bukowski’s admiration for him. After losing his eyesight as a result of diabetes, Fante dictated his final book to his wife. He received a PEN Award for lifetime achievement posthumously.