Sold first article to Esquire

Worked as copywriter at an advertising agency

Hired as movie publicist by Walt Disney Studios; spent 22 years in Hollywood working for almost every studio at one time or another

Moved back to NYC in late 1950s; began writing novels

First novel published, "The Oldest Confession"; sold to films and made under title "The Happy Thieves" (1962)

Published "The Manchurian Candidate"; also filmed in 1962

Moved to Mexico

Published "A Talent for Loving"; also filmed in 1969

Relocated to Switzerland

Settled in Ireland

Published "Winter Kills"; also filmed in 1979

Moved back to US; settled in Dallas, TX

Co-wrote first script (with Janet Roach); adaptation of his novel "Prizzi's Honor"; earned Oscar nomination