Sad News

We have learned that Derek Parker Royal, who founded the Philip Roth Society in 2002 and served as its first president, has passed away. In addition to founding the Society, Derek also served as the first Executive Editor of Philip Roth Studies. He was a kind, energetic, and generous scholar, who brought in many younger scholars into Roth Studies. Derek was a deeply astute critic and writer, and his intelligence and enthusiasm for not only Roth but also comics, music, and films will be deeply missed. He is survived by his wife Amanda and his two children. We ask that you keep his family in your thoughts at this difficult time.