Book excerpt: "The Road Taken" by Senator Patrick Leahy
After eight terms in the U.S. Senate, the Vermonter writes about his path through the upper house of Congress, which he says once acted as "the nation's conscience" – and could one day again.
Books
The assault on Salman Rushdie: "An attack on freedom of expression"
The attempted murder of the renowned author, long targeted by Islamic extremists over his novel "The Satanic Verses," is the latest sad chapter in the life of a quiet but dedicated hero of free speech.
Michael Mann on the prequel/sequel novel "Heat 2"
The director behind the acclaimed Los Angeles heist drama "Heat" and the upcoming "Ferrari" (now in production in Italy) talks about his fascination with cities, and his new novel, "Heat 2," which translates his cinematic obsessions to the printed page.
Book excerpt: "The Fifth Act," on one American's role in Afghanistan
Elliot Ackerman, who served four combat tours in Afghanistan with the Marines and the CIA, writes of how his mission continued, in seeking to rescue an Afghan and his family from the country's fall to the Taliban.
Book excerpt: "Heat 2" by Michael Mann and Meg Gardiner
A new novel serves as a prequel and sequel to the Oscar-nominated writer-director's acclaimed 1995 bank heist thriller, expanding the characters' backstory and tracing the repercussions of their dangerous dance with death.
Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen: Renegades
The former president and the singer-songwriter, who have shared their stories in a podcast and a book, "Renegades: Born in the USA," discuss the influence of their fathers on their life's work, and the collective narratives in both popular music and politics.
Welcome to the library of the 21st century
No shushing here! The modern library is more than just a repository of books – they're public spaces designed to foster connections while keeping pace with technology and the needs of the community. Come check it out!
Jason Reynolds on stories told for, and by, young readers
The prolific and bestselling author of young people's literature uses his own childhood experiences to encourage kids to use their imagination to tell their stories, and engage in the complicated conversations they may evoke.
Rafael Agustin on new memoir
"Jane the Virgin" writer Rafael Agustin shares what it was like to grow up as an undocumented immigrant in his new memoir "Illegally Yours." He joins "CBS Mornings" to talk about the impact on his family and how it changed his life path.
The Book Report: New summer fiction and nonfiction
Washington Post book critic Ron Charles offers his picks of new titles, including the return of "Election" heroine Tracy Flick.
"Where the Crawdads Sing": Bringing a bestselling phenomenon to the screen
Delia Owens' debut novel has spent 166 weeks on The New York Times Best Seller List; now, Reese Witherspoon has produced one of the most eagerly-anticipated movies of the year.
Book excerpt: "Tracy Flick Can't Win" by Tom Perrotta
The ambitious young protagonist who campaigned for high school president in the 1998 novel "Election" (memorably played by Reese Witherspoon in the film version) is back, and just as ambitious as ever.
Book excerpt: "The Latecomer" by Jean Hanff Korelitz
The author of the New York Times bestseller "The Plot" returns with a story of siblings whose fracturing family is about to get an earth-shattering new addition.
Book excerpt: "Trust" by Hernan Diaz
The essayist and author tells the story of the one of the richest men in the world – or rather four stories, as each paints a different portrait of a young stock trader whose almost-supernatural financial intuition leads to untold wealth and the "vulgar burden" of luxury.
Book excerpt: "Rickey," on the life of baseball legend Rickey Henderson
Howard Bryant's new biography tells the captivating story of the Hall of Famer who holds the MLB records for runs and stolen bases, and how he helped change the game forever.
Book excerpt: "Hollywood Ending: Harvey Weinstein and the Culture of Silence"
Journalist Ken Auletta writes about the Hollywood power broker and his fall after allegations of sexual abuse exposed during the #MeToo movement led to his conviction and imprisonment.
Library aims to leave hope for generations
Each year for 100 years, prominent authors will place an unread manuscript in a time capsule at a library in Norway. The cultural project won’t be completed until the year 2114, and seeks to leave hope and optimism for future generations.
Author Jenny Han talks Taylor Swift's influence, Asian representation
Jenny Han said she was told by publishers years ago that people wouldn't read stories about Asian Americans.
Author V.E. Schwab on writing monsters to help her readers fight real life
CBS News spoke with Schwab about her upcoming big-screen projects and how writing for "an audience of one" changed her life forever.
Ibram X. Kendi on the importance of being antiracist
The bestselling author talks about confronting the dangers of racism; protecting young people from harmful ideas; and the parenting values behind his new books, "How to Raise an Antiracist" and the children's picture book, "Goodnight Racism."
In her new memoir Katy Tur writes "Rough Draft" of her parents' story
The broadcaster tells of her mom and helicopter pilot dad who helped report news from high above Los Angeles; about his fits of rage; and a dramatic change that would come as a shock to her.
Author Geraldine Brooks on her new book
Pulitzer-prize winning author Geraldine Brooks discusses her new book “Horse.” The novel is about a thoroughbred who at one time sired more champions than any other horse in history and takes place during both the Civil War era and modern day.
Book excerpt: "How to Raise an Antiracist" by Ibram X. Kendi
The professor and author of the bestselling "How to Be an Antiracist" returns with a parenting title aimed at protecting our children by teaching them about the realities of racism and the myths of race.
Oprah's Book Club selects "Nightcrawling" by teen novelist Leila Mottley
Leila Mottley began writing her new novel, "Nightcrawling," at 16 years old.
Gillian Flynn reads new "Gone Girl" excerpt
A 10th anniversary edition of the hit book, "Gone Girl" is out now with never-before published passages. Author Gillian Flynn joins "CBS Mornings" to read one of the new excerpts and discuss the thriller's success.
Entertainment
George Clooney, his wife and their twins granted French citizenship
France's government says that George Clooney, his wife Amal and their eight-year-old twins Ella and Alexander have been awarded French citizenship.
Beyoncé is now a billionaire, according to Forbes
The Grammy-winning artist Beyoncé became the fifth musician to achieve the wealth milestone, Forbes said Monday.
Actor accusing Tyler Perry exchanged texts with him years after alleged assault
Actor Mario Rodriguez alleged in the lawsuit filed last week in California that Tyler Perry sexually assaulted him during encounters between 2014 and 2019.
French split over Brigitte Bardot tribute due to her far right views
French politicians were divided on Monday over how to pay tribute to the late Brigitte Bardot who, despite her screen legend, courted controversy in later life with her far-right views.
MetroCard art: Swiping beauty from the mundane
On December 31, New York City will officially retire the transit system's MetroCard, that ubiquitous piece of plastic used to gain entrance onto subways and buses. But there is beauty in using MetroCards as the raw materials for art, as Thomas McKean has found in his collages and miniature sculptures depicting portraits of city life. Serena Altschul reports.
2025: The year's top books
"Sunday Morning" checks out the bestselling fiction and non-fiction of the past year.
2025: The year's top movies
"Sunday Morning" checks out the highest-grossing films of the past year.
2025: The year's top music
"Sunday Morning" checks out Spotify's top streaming hits of the past year.
The Book Report: Ron Charles' picks from 2025
The Washington Post book reviewer offers "Sunday Morning" viewers his picks for fiction and non-fiction titles to add to their New Year's reading lists.
The Book Report: Ron Charles' books of the year for 2025
The Washington Post book reviewer offers "Sunday Morning" viewers his picks for fiction and non-fiction titles to add to their New Year's reading lists.
Book excerpt: "Guilty by Definition" by Susie Dent
This debut novel is a mystery in which a dictionary editor at Oxford turns to word-sleuthing in order to unravel a family member's long-ago disappearance.
How one photographer takes refuge in Paris
Peter Turnley, an American and French photographer known for documenting the human condition, finds comfort in Paris. His new book "PARIS Je t'aime" showcases 50 years of photographs from his favorite city.
Samara Joy performs "Now And Then (In Remembrance Of...)"
Samara Joy burst onto the jazz scene in 2021, earning major praise as a "classic jazz singer from a new generation," and gaining popularity on TikTok. The young artist has already won five Grammy Awards, and her album "Portrait" is now up for Best Jazz Vocal Album of the Year. Here's Samara Joy performing "Now And Then (In Remembrance Of...)."
Samara Joy performs "Three Little Words"
Samara Joy burst onto the jazz scene in 2021, earning major praise as a "classic jazz singer from a new generation," and gaining popularity on TikTok. The young artist has already won five Grammy Awards, and her album "Portrait" is now up for Best Jazz Vocal Album of the Year. Here's Samara Joy performing "Three Little Words."
Second actor accuses Tyler Perry of sexual assault in new lawsuit
It marks the second lawsuit in recent months accusing the filmmaker and studio mogul of leveraging his power in Hollywood to make sexual advances.
U.S.
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NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin's father dies after fire, mother critically injured
NASCAR champion Denny Hamlin's father, Dennis Hamlin, died from injuries he suffered in a house fire Sunday in North Carolina, officials said.
National Guard deploying to New Orleans as city marks 1 year since terror attack
The Guard members will stay through Carnival season, when residents and tourists descend on the Big Easy to partake in costumed celebrations and massive parades before ending with Mardi Gras.
Transcript from closed hearing for Charlie Kirk murder suspect released
A Utah judge has ordered the release of a transcript from a closed-door hearing in October over whether the man charged with killing Charlie Kirk must be shackled during court proceedings.
Photos show motorcycle collection tied to Olympian-turned-alleged-drug-kingpin
Authorities in Mexico have seized a large collection of motorcycles believed to be owned by Ryan Wedding, the former Olympian wanted for allegedly running a major drug trafficking operation.
Viral video prompts fraud probe at Minnesota day care centers
While many of the Minnesota day care centers in the video were cited and fined for safety violations, investigators previously found no evidence of fraud.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Beyoncé is now a billionaire, according to Forbes
The Grammy-winning artist Beyoncé became the fifth musician to achieve the wealth milestone, Forbes said Monday.
These 9 states are cutting income taxes in 2026. See where.
Income tax cuts are taking effect in multiple U.S. states on Jan. 1, 2026, a new analysis says.
OpenAI hiring for head safety executive to mitigate AI risks
The company's investment in safety prevention comes amid growing concerns over the potential harm of artificial intelligence.
Bank of America CEO warns market "will punish people" without independent Fed
Bank of America Chairman and CEO Brian Moynihan stated last week that, as President Trump seeks a new chair of the Federal Reserve, maintaining the banking system's independence is paramount.
Planning to return unwanted Christmas gifts? You may be charged fees.
Several major retailers are now charging customers to return items even if they are unopened and in perfect condition.
Politics
More Politics
Dutch angry at U.S. for yanking panels honoring Black World War II troops
The removal by a U.S. military cemetery in the Netherlands of two displays recognizing Black troops who fought in World War II has spurred anger there.
New California tortilla law aims to decrease birth defects in Latino babies
Mom-and-pop shops will be exempt from this change, but big manufacturers in California will need to start adding folic acid to tortillas beginning January 1.
Viral video prompts fraud probe at Minnesota day care centers
While many of the Minnesota day care centers in the video were cited and fined for safety violations, investigators previously found no evidence of fraud.
U.S. military conducts 30th strike on alleged drug boat, killing 2
The U.S. military has hit at least 30 alleged drug vessels in the region since early September, killing 107 people.
Trump says U.S. hit "big facility" linked to alleged drug boats
President Trump said the U.S. hit a "big facility" last week linked to alleged drug boat operations, as tensions ratchet up with Venezuela.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
New California tortilla law aims to decrease birth defects in Latino babies
Mom-and-pop shops will be exempt from this change, but big manufacturers in California will need to start adding folic acid to tortillas beginning January 1.
Advances in treatment for Alzheimer's disease
The number of Americans with Alzheimer's disease is expected to double from 7 million in 2020 to 14 million by 2060, according to the CDC. However, advances in treatment options are giving more people hope in slowing the decline. Dr. Jon LaPook breaks it down.
Flu cases skyrocket across the U.S
Nearly five million flu cases have been reported nationwide, the CDC estimates, and at least 1,900 people have died from the virus. "CBS Saturday Morning" has more on why this year's strain is breaking records.
Baby defies all odds after growing outside his mom's womb
Suze Lopez, a 41-year-old nurse who lives in Bakersfield, California, didn't know she was pregnant with her second child until days before giving birth.
FDA approves Wegovy pill for weight loss
The Food and Drug Administration has approved a pill version of the weight-loss drug Wegovy.
World
More World
Search for MH370 resumes in Indian Ocean 12 years after plane vanished
U.S.-British firm Ocean Infinity intends to scour almost 6,000 square miles of seafloor for the missing Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777.
2025 was so hot it pushed Earth past critical climate change mark
2025 was the third hottest year on record and pushed Earth past a critical climate change mark, scientists say.
Dutch angry at U.S. for yanking panels honoring Black World War II troops
The removal by a U.S. military cemetery in the Netherlands of two displays recognizing Black troops who fought in World War II has spurred anger there.
Taiwan accuses China of "reckless" drills as forces simulate a blockade
As Taiwan blasts China's "highly provocative and reckless" blockade rehearsal, Trump touts his relationship with Xi Jinping and says an invasion is unlikely.
George Clooney, his wife and their twins granted French citizenship
France's government says that George Clooney, his wife Amal and their eight-year-old twins Ella and Alexander have been awarded French citizenship.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
George Clooney, his wife and their twins granted French citizenship
France's government says that George Clooney, his wife Amal and their eight-year-old twins Ella and Alexander have been awarded French citizenship.
Beyoncé is now a billionaire, according to Forbes
The Grammy-winning artist Beyoncé became the fifth musician to achieve the wealth milestone, Forbes said Monday.
Actor accusing Tyler Perry exchanged texts with him years after alleged assault
Actor Mario Rodriguez alleged in the lawsuit filed last week in California that Tyler Perry sexually assaulted him during encounters between 2014 and 2019.
French split over Brigitte Bardot tribute due to her far right views
French politicians were divided on Monday over how to pay tribute to the late Brigitte Bardot who, despite her screen legend, courted controversy in later life with her far-right views.
MetroCard art: Swiping beauty from the mundane
On December 31, New York City will officially retire the transit system's MetroCard, that ubiquitous piece of plastic used to gain entrance onto subways and buses. But there is beauty in using MetroCards as the raw materials for art, as Thomas McKean has found in his collages and miniature sculptures depicting portraits of city life. Serena Altschul reports.
Technology
More Technology
OpenAI hiring for head safety executive to mitigate AI risks
The company's investment in safety prevention comes amid growing concerns over the potential harm of artificial intelligence.
Instacart ending AI price tests for retailers
Instacart says its ending its controversial system of using AI price tests for retailers. Earlier this month, an investigation by Consumer Reports and progressive think tank Groundwork Collaborative found that Instacart's algorithmic pricing charged various prices for the same item from the same store. Jo Ling Kent reports.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Tech companies push for data centers
Massive tech companies wanting to build more data centers in the U.S. are lobbying for support among Americans, according to a recent report by POLITICO. Gabby Miller joins CBS News with more on her reporting.
Top tech gadgets of 2025
Timothy Werth, a tech editor at Mashable, joins "CBS News 24/7" to discuss the best gadgets of 2025.
Science
More Science
2025 was so hot it pushed Earth past critical climate change mark
2025 was the third hottest year on record and pushed Earth past a critical climate change mark, scientists say.
Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Crime
More Crime
Transcript from closed hearing for Charlie Kirk murder suspect released
A Utah judge has ordered the release of a transcript from a closed-door hearing in October over whether the man charged with killing Charlie Kirk must be shackled during court proceedings.
Photos show motorcycle collection tied to Olympian-turned-alleged-drug-kingpin
Authorities in Mexico have seized a large collection of motorcycles believed to be owned by Ryan Wedding, the former Olympian wanted for allegedly running a major drug trafficking operation.
North Texas man charged with trying to provide material support to ISIS, officials say
The 21-year-old Midlothian man was arrested after bringing bomb-making components to a meeting with an undercover officer, the feds say.
Victim in Christmas shooting in Southfield never called 911, police say
Police investigating the Christmas Day deaths of two people at an apartment complex say neither the victim nor her friend ever called 911, despite a history of domestic violence in the victim's relationship.
DOJ: D.C. pipe bomb suspect confessed
The Virginia man accused of placing pipe bombs outside the DNC and RNC headquarters on the eve of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riots has confessed, according to a new court filing. CBS News justice correspondent Scott MacFarlane has the details.
Space
More Space
Space
NASA's search for next lunar rover
NASA astronauts took their first drive on the moon 54 years ago. Now, three companies are competing for a NASA contract to build a new lunar rover for use starting with the Artemis 5 mission in 2030. Kris Van Cleave reports.
Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Trump says U.S. struck alleged drug boat dock
President Trump on Monday confirmed an alleged drug-related site was targeted during a recent strike, saying, "they load the boats up with drugs, so we hit all the boats and now we hit the area." Mr. Trump did not say when the strike happened or exactly where, as he ratchets up military pressure on Venezuela. The Pentagon also hasn't confirmed those details.
Fraud allegations against Minnesota day cares
A viral video posted over the weekend alleged more than two dozen child and health care facilities in Minnesota are defrauding the government. CBS News has not confirmed any instances of fraud. DHS followed up by visiting dozens of facilities Monday, while the FBI said it has "surged personnel and investigative resources" to the state. Jonah Kaplan reports.
Eye Opener: Winter storm slams parts of U.S.
Near whiteout conditions, along with powerful winds, slammed parts of the U.S. from the Great Lakes to the Northeast. Plus, President Trump confirms the apparent first U.S. strike inside Venezuela. All that and all that matters in today's Eye Opener.
Tips to extend your car's life, avoid repairs
Car ownership costs are increasing, including the cost of repairs. Audra Fordin, owner of Great Bear Auto Repair in New York City, shares tips to help your car last longer and save money with preventative maintenance.
Roadside danger persists despite safety laws
Every state in the country has what is known as a "slow down, move over" law aimed at protecting people working on the side of the road. CBS News senior transportation correspondent Kris Van Cleave reports on the potentially deadly mistake drivers are making.