Dominique Lapierre, French author, dies at 91

Dominique Lapierre, author of  City of Joy, and some other celebrated books,  has died.  He was 91. Agencies quoted his wife Dominique Conchon-Lapierre confirming the Lapierre’s death because of ‘ailments related to age.’

Born in July 30, 1931, at Chatelaillon in France, Lapierre began his career as a reporter of Paris-Match, and later established himself as the authors of best sellers like O Jerusalem, Freedom at Midnight, the Fifth Horseman and Is New York Burning ? His collaboration with US Journalist Larry Collins brought volumes of books including Is Paris Burning ?

However, the City of Joy on Calcutta slum Dwellers that came out in the 80’s, and also became a hit film motivated him towards philanthropy, with the Lapierres setting up the City of Joy Aid, a non-profit humanitarian organisation based there, funding health clinics, schools, rehabilitation centres and hospital boats.