Autor Jonathan Franzen has told St. Louis high school students that he’s not sure any of his habits would be helpful to an aspiring writer. Franzen spoke to several student groups during a visit to his hometown arranged months ago by Pudd’nhead Books. He has told students it was a “gift” to grow up in Webster Groves in the 70s.

Franzen’s latest work, “Freedom”, has won critical praise on its way to becoming a best-seller. Time magazine recently featured Franzen on its cover.