Katie Couric: Groundbreaking TV Journalist »

People often told Katie Couric that she was too cute and perky to be considered a serious news reporter. In fact, one of Katie's earliest appearances in front of the camera led her boss to proclaim that he never wanted to see her on the air again. But Katie didn't let that stop her. She always knew she was destined to be a TV journalist. After rising to stardom as co-host of NBC's Today show in the 1990s, Katie reached the pinnacle of her profession in 2006 on the CBS Evening News, becoming the first solo female anchor of a network nightly news program. Katie's determination extends beyond her career. Since the death of her husband, Jay, from colon cancer in 1998, she has worked tirelessly as an advocate for cancer research.

Children's Literature

The story begins with the October 1992 "Today" show in which co-anchor Katie Couric was given a tour of the White House by First Lady Barbara Bush. Later Couric managed to pull George Bush into a 20-minute interview. It was cited as one of the most remarkable moments of broadcast journalism because she kept asking tough questions on the upcoming election with Democrat Bill Clinton. Her persistence and determination to hook and handle difficult interviews catapulted her to celebrity status. The book covers "Women in Broadcasting" and "The Changing Face of TV News." The chapters cover broadcasting life with a variety of the staff over the years. There are great photographs and information about famous people and places. Personal life is also included. There is a timeline, a "Conversation With Maria Brennan," glossary, "For More Information," select bibliography and source notes, index and "About the Author." There are many colored photographs and a most attractive and durable cover. There is even a blurb on the back cover about Couric as well as a description of the "Life Portraits" books. This should be a "first buy" for libraries. Reviewer: Naomi Butler

Chapter 1 Breaking New Ground 7

Chapter 2 The Little Girl With the Big Smile 13

Chapter 3 Big Dreams 25

Chapter 4 Getting Serious 31

Chapter 5 Katie's Big Break 41

Chapter 6 A Self-Made Star 51

Chapter 7 Juggling Act 63

Chapter 8 Katie's Crusade 73

Chapter 9 Flying Solo 87

Time Line 98

A Conversation With Maria Brennan 101

Glossary 104

For More Information 106

Select Bibliography and Source Notes 107

Index 109

About the Author 112