Richard Condon has written 23 novels since becoming a full-time writer at the age of 42. These include The Manchurian Candidate and Prizzi's Honour. In conversation with Michael Parkinson, he talks about his upbringing in Manhattan, his career in the film world where he ended up as a publicity executive for Walt Disney, and his escape into writing.

[Taken from the original programme material for this archive edition of Desert Island Discs]

Favourite track: Baubles, Bangles and Beads by Peggy Lee