Penguin Lives

Larry McMurtry (1936-2021) was an American novelist, screenwriter, and essayist known for his works set in the American West. Born in Archer City, Texas, McMurtry was the son of a rancher. He graduated from North Texas State College and worked as a journalist before turning to writing. His 1966 novel "The Last Picture Show" and its 1971 film adaptation earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. The novel was followed by the sequels "Texasville" (1987) and "Duane's Depressed" (1999). McMurtry also wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "Lonesome Dove" (1985), a historical epic about a cattle drive from Texas to Montana. He penned several other acclaimed novels, including "The Horseman, Pass By" (1961), "Terms of Endearment" (1975), and "Brokeback Mountain" (1997). McMurtry's works explored themes of family, loss, and the changing American West. He received numerous awards, including the National Book Award, the Golden Globe Award, and the Academy Award.