Back to the Future's Bob Gale Inspires Our 80s Reading List

By Sophia Kercher

Before Michael J. Fox was crowned teen idol of the 1980s, before leg warmers, teased hair-dos and acid washed jeans were de rigueur for every teenage girl—Bob Gale was just another struggling comedy writer looking for a lucky break. It wasn’t until the soon-to-be creator of the Back to The Future trilogy stumbled upon his dad’s yearbook that he came up with the story of what would eventually catapult him into the top of the Hollywood A-List.

Michael J Fox and Bob Gale (circa 1984)

Gale is speaking at Writing Pad on Sunday Sept. 25th at 7:30 pm where he’ll shed light on breaking into Hollywood, delivering the killer pitch, and writing the perfect screenplay.  Bob will be interviewed by producer Tom McNulty ("Date Night"). RSVP for this foray into literary time travel, only 4 spots left! DeLorean is optional. 

In honor of the talk Writing Pad has compiled a 1980s inspired reading list to prep you. (Don't worry we won’t tell anyone if you listen to Madonna’s Material Girl while turning the pages.)

80s Reads:

Less Than Zero, Bret Easton Ellis He wrote and published this when he was still in college while the rest of you were playing beer pong.

Bright Lights, Big City, Jay McInerney It’s so good, it’s like doing drugs—but you don’t have to put anything up your nose.

The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy series, Douglas Adams Your ticket to the future.

Slaves of New York, Tama Janowitz Prostitutes, saints, and seers, oh my! This one is recommended by our instructor Taffy Brodesser-Akner.

Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe, Fannie Flag We return to Fried Green Tomatoes for the recipes included in the book.

The Prince of Tides, Pat Conroy Read with a box of tissues on hand.

Neuromancer, William Gibson Take a moment to revel at the neon design on this sci-fi book's cover.

The Mysteries of Pittsburgh, Michael Chabon Who doesn’t love to read a coming of age story about questioning one’s sexuality? Also the opening paragraph will blow you away, promise.