William Wharton

William Wharton was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1926. He published his first book, Birdy, after a long career as a painter. Mr. Wharton fought in World War II, where he was part of the Army Specialized Training Program. Birdy grew out of his experience with army psychiatric hospitals and was made into a film in 1984.

Mr. Wharton's oher novels include Dad, A Midnight Clear, Franky Furbo, Scumbler, Pride, Tidings and Last Lovers.