john updike

In the new book “Selected Letters of John Updike” editor James Schiff offers readers a window into that private world drawing from decades of correspondence. Schiff presents a portrait of Updike is both craftsman and confidante, generous, witty, and endlessly reflective about writing and life.

The new play, “Gertrude and Claudius,” billed as a prequel to Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” began performances at Barrington Stage Company in Pittsfield,…