‘RACHEL’ PAPERS

We very much enjoyed “Hot, Sexy and (Almost) 70,” Charles Champlin’s piece on Paul Newman (Dec. 18).

However, it is unfortunate that the article leaves the impression that the wonderful film “Rachel, Rachel,” written by Oscar-nominated screenwriter Stewart Stern, was an original screenplay, especially when the article mentions Stern and Newman’s attempt to write a sequel.

“Rachel, Rachel” was adapted from the novel “A Jest of God” by esteemed Canadian writer Margaret Laurence.

Let’s not forget where many of the best stories come from--books!

DORTHEA ATWATER

Book Alley of Old Pasadena

Pasadena

*

Loved Charles Champlin’s interview with Paul Newman.

Newman’s insightful comment on today’s political scene is worthy of bold headlines on Page 1 and the editorial page.

Unless we find the great worth in “loyalty to the whole community,” American democracy will never be able to deal with competing interests for self-worth and status.

HYMAN H. HAVES

Pacific Palisades