Trust gay author and observer David Herkt to put it in a nutshell: "I grew up with Edmund White." Edmund White As soon as Herkt said this to Peter Wells a few days ago, Wells - one of the best gay authors and observers NZ has produced - knew exactly what he meant. As a gay man coming out in the 70s and 80s, Edmund White provided Wells and thousands, no millions, of gay men around the world with the narrative to their own passions, experiences and dreams. A Boy's Own Story, States of Desire, The Joy of Gay Sex - White's insightful books just kept on coming and Wells was among White's committed readers. Now White has produced the almost scandalously honest memoir, My Lives, in which he looks at, among other things, My Masters and the male prostitutes he's been using all his life. He'll be in Auckland on Sunday 21 May, talking to Peter Wells at the Aotea Centre as part of the 'WitSunday' Auckland Writers and Readers festival. For gay men it's an event not to be missed and seems suitably timed for the sultry hour of 8.30-9.30pm. Expect frank and open discussion of life, sexuality, the gay universe and everything. Bookings are available through Ticketek, $18.00 or $16.20 for students. Jay Bennie - 3rd May 2006