Childhood Friends and Authors Scott Johnston, Michael Cannell Discuss New Books at Bridgehampton Barnes & Noble

Authors Scott Johnston and Michael Cannell, longtime childhood friends who grew up on the East End, will appear together for a conversation and book signing event on Saturday, July 12, at 2 p.m. at the Bridgehampton Barnes & Noble in the Bridgehampton Commons on Montauk Highway. Admission is free.

Johnston’s new novel, “The Sandersons Fail Manhattan” (St. Martin’s Press, July 8), is a sharp and satirical look at wealth, family and cultural upheaval set against the backdrop of New York City. The story follows William Sanderson, a wealthy executive struggling with a high-stakes promotion and his family’s attempts to navigate shifting social dynamics, including a mystery involving a missing trans student at their daughters’ elite school.

Michael Cannell is a former New York Times editor and his book “Blood and the Badge” (Minotaur Books, January 14) explores the dark, true story of two NYPD detectives who served as mafia informants and assassins during the 1980s, revealing a chilling chapter of corruption and betrayal within law enforcement. The book draws on new research and interviews, including with notorious mob figures, and sheds light on systemic issues that resonate today.

Johnston and Cannell’s friendship spans decades and geography — Johnston grew up visiting Southampton in summers and currently lives nearby, while Cannell was raised on Fire Island.

“My great-grandfather first started coming here sometime around 1920. His name was Morgan J. O'Brien, and he was a notable judge, sitting on the New York Supreme Court,” Johnston said “He was one of the founders of the National Golf Links and his first home here was called Villa Mille Fiori, which was somewhat famous (and ridiculous). I currently live across the street from where it once was.

“We’ve shared a love of storytelling since childhood,” Johnston added of his friend Canell. “It’s a privilege to come together again, bringing very different perspectives and stories but with a common bond.”

Cannell added, “Our friendship adds a special dimension to this event. We come from neighboring communities but have taken very different paths as writers. It will be fun to explore those journeys and the themes in our books.”