The Book Report: Recommendations from Washington Post critic Ron Charles (September 26)
News of upcoming fall fiction and non-fiction titles.
Books
Book excerpt: "Never" by Ken Follett
The bestselling author's new thriller finds the first female U.S. president trying to manage crises at home and abroad that could lead to World War III.
Book excerpt: "These Precious Days" by Ann Patchett
The author of the acclaimed novels "The Dutch House" and "Bel Canto" offers a collection of essays that reflect on her life and the writers who have inspired her.
Book excerpt: "The Lincoln Highway" by Amor Towles
The author of the bestseller "A Gentleman in Moscow" returns with a period story of four youngsters who embark on an epic journey from Nebraska to New York City.
Author James Rebanks on "Pastoral Song"
Best-selling author James Rebanks has been called England's most famous farmer. His latest book, "Pastoral Song," is a love story dedicated to the land his family has farmed for generations. It's also the story of how he is discovering a path to sustain that land and a way of life that millions of farmers worldwide know and love. Jeff Glor has the details.
Anderson Cooper on the Vanderbilt dynasty
In his new book, the CNN anchor and "60 Minutes" correspondent tells the story of the Vanderbilt family (which included his mother Gloria), of fortunes made and spent, and of how the family's wealth and privilege marked succeeding generations.
In the 1970s, interest in live theater hit an all-time low and Broadway's dilapidated theaters almost turned out the lights for good
In the 1970s, interest in live theater hit an all-time low and Broadway's dilapidated theaters almost turned out the lights for good. The whole story is chronicled in a new book, "Razzle Dazzle: The Battle for Broadway," published by Simon and Schuster, a division of CBS. Michael Riedel, the author of the book and New York Post's theater columnist, joins “CBS This Morning” to discuss the revival of Broadway.
"The Hit Makers"
In a world of media overload, what determines which music or TV shows --even political candidates -- will rise above the din to become the thing everyone talks about? Author Derek Thompson, senior editor at The Atlantic, joins "CBS This Morning: Saturday" to discuss his new book, "The Hit Makers: The Science of Popularity in an Age of Distraction," which explores how things move from obscurity to obsession.
"1984" up in sales
More than six decades after it was published, George Orwell's dystopian novel, "1984," is seeing a surge in sales. Alex Wagner looks at the new success for the book about government manipulating truth.
Chuck Klosterman talks new book
Chuck Klosterman is a best-selling author of eight non-fiction books and two novels. His latest work, "Chuck Klosterman X: A Highly Specific, Defiantly Incomplete History of the Early 21st Century" is a collection of columns and articles published over the past decade. He joins "CBS This Morning: Saturday" to discuss how he attempts to capture pop culture through his new book.
Harper Lee was as the White House put it, a "giant of American literature"
Harper Lee was as the White House put it, a "giant of American literature." The author of "To Kill a Mockingbird" died Thursday night at the age of 89. President Obama was a huge fan and so was his predecessor. Anthony Mason reports.
"Countdown bin Laden": Obama's pursuit of the 9/11 mastermind
John Dickerson sits down with Fox News anchor Chris Wallace, author of "Countdown bin Laden," to discuss the raid on the al Qaeda leader's compound, and President Obama's decision to go forward with the Navy SEAL operation that had a high possibility of failure.
Writer Josh Ritter goes back to Idaho roots
Josh Ritter has been called one of the greatest songwriters — now, he's set his sights on writing for a different audience. His second novel, "The Great and Glorious Goddamn of It All," is set to be released Tuesday. The book is set in Idaho, where Ritter was raised, in the early 1900s before modern machines changed the logging business forever. Jeff Glor reports.
Mike Duncan on "Hero of Two Worlds"
Mike Duncan's new book "Hero of Two Worlds” desscribes the famed Marquis de Lafayette, the man who played key roles in both the American and French revolutions. CBS News’ Jeff Glor heads to Mount Vernon in Virginia to hear all about it.
Author Amanda Ripley on "High Conflict"
Amanda Ripley, the author of the new book "High Conflict," says "we have a lot of the wrong fights with the wrong people, and we don't have the fights we most need to have."
Collecting the words of Jim Morrison
When the lead singer of The Doors died in 1971, he left behind boxes filled with poetry, journals and handwritten lyrics of what would become some of the era's most memorable songs – now compiled into a new book, "The Collected Works of Jim Morrison."
Book excerpt: "The Collected Works of Jim Morrison"
A new anthology features poetry, lyrics and journals by the frontman of The Doors. Listen to audio of Jim Morrison reciting his work.
Boy on a mission to share his love of reading with thousands of others
Orion Jean may only be 10 years old, but the number on his mind is 500,000 — that's how many books he hopes will be donated by the end of the month.
The life lessons of "Three Little Engines"
Knowing life doesn't always bring success to those going it alone, Bob McKinnon authored a companion to "The Little Engine That Could," in which empathy and assisting others helps his characters overcome trouble they encounter on their tracks.
Alexander Vindman on truth and its consequences
The retired Lt. Col. who filed a complaint against Trump over his phone call with the Ukrainian president talks about duty and the firestorm that ensnared him for speaking out, as retold in his memoir, "Here, Right Matters."
The Book Report: Reviews from Washington Post critic Ron Charles (August 1)
Recommendations of new fiction and non-fiction titles.
Book excerpt: "Sound of the Sea" by Cynthia Barnett
A fascinating scientific and cultural history for anyone who's ever admired the ocean's most beautiful objects – a literal "beach read."
Book excerpt: "What Strange Paradise" by Omar El Akkad
The author of "American War" offers a heartbreaking novel that puts a face on the staggering statistics of the tens of millions of people displaced from their homes as the result of persecution and violence.
Book excerpt: "Intimacies" by Katie Kitamura
In a new novel by the acclaimed author of "A Separation," a woman is assigned to be the interpreter for a politician on trial at The Hague for war crimes, forcing her into the mind of a man who terrifies her.
Book excerpt: "Damnation Spring" by Ash Davidson
In this epic debut novel, set in the redwood forests of northern California, a lumberman takes a gamble on a parcel of land that could set up his family for years.
Entertainment
Entertainment
Recovered treasure leads to a Grammy nomination
Archivist and music historian Alex Palao worked to restore old tapes by "Sly and Family Stone" that gathered dust for decades. He co-produced the live album called "The First Family: Live at the Winchester Cathedral 1967." He is now nominated for "Best Album Notes" at Sunday's Grammy Awards. CBS News San Francisco's Max Darrow has the story.
"Sanford and Son" star Demond Wilson dies at 79
Actor Demond Wilson died in his California home due to complications from prostate cancer, CBS News learned on Saturday. He starred alongside Redd Foxx in "Sanford and Son," one of the biggest TV hits of the 1970s.
Demond Wilson, "Sanford and Son" and "The New Odd Couple" actor, dies at 79
In 1971, Demond Wilson appeared on an episode of "All in the Family," a role that led him to land a lead part in "Sanford and Son."
Courtney Marie Andrews performs "Everyone Wants To Feel Like You Do"
Courtney Marie Andrews started writing songs as a teenager and played in punk bands before starting out on her own. Since then, she has been nominated for a Grammy and become known for her vulnerable lyrics and dazzling voice. Now, from her new album "Valentine," here is Courtney Marie Andrews with "Everyone Wants To Feel Like You Do."
Courtney Marie Andrews performs "Cons and Clowns"
Courtney Marie Andrews started writing songs as a teenager and played in punk bands before starting out on her own. Since then, she has been nominated for a Grammy and become known for her vulnerable lyrics and dazzling voice. Now, from her new album "Valentine," here is Courtney Marie Andrews with "Cons and Clowns."
Courtney Marie Andrews performs "Pendulum Swing"
Courtney Marie Andrews started writing songs as a teenager and played in punk bands before starting out on her own. Since then, she has been nominated for a Grammy and become known for her vulnerable lyrics and dazzling voice. Now, from her new album "Valentine," here is Courtney Marie Andrews with "Pendulum Swing."
A new "Phantom of the Opera" takes the stage
It's been nearly three years since the curtain came down on Broadway's "The Phantom of the Opera." Now, the record-breaking musical is back on stage in a brand-new form.
New exhibit explores Mustangs in the movies
For decades, the Ford Mustang has been one of the most recognizable cars on America's highways. The car is also a familiar sight on the big screen, even earning top billing in one movie. Now, the Mustang's movie ties are being explored in a new immersive experience.
Breaking down the Grammy Awards
The 68th Annual Grammy Awards will be held on Sunday night. Here's what to know about the nominees.
Remembering actor Catherine O'Hara
Catherine O'Hara made audiences laugh for years. She started working in comedy in Canada in the 1970s and spent decades stealing scenes on screen before her death at 71. Here's a look back on her incredible career.
Elena Rybakina beats No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka to win Australian Open
This was the second major title for fifth-seeded Elena Rybakina.
Catherine O'Hara, "Beetlejuice" and "Home Alone" star, dies at 71
Catherine O'Hara was best known for her comic performances in projects including "Home Alone," "Beetlejuice," and "Schitt's Creek."
UFC 325 fights go down tomorrow night. See when it starts, who's on the card and where to watch.
Alexander Volkanovski faces Diego Lopes in the UFC 325 main event on what's expected to be an action-packed fight card.
KATSEYE reflects on success and what's next
In just two years, KATSEYE has gone from a Netflix reality competition show to top of the charts, collecting a VMA and two Grammy nominations along the way. The group talks about their journey together in the music industry and what they hope for in the future.
Designer brings life to Grammy red carpet
The nominees and performers for the Grammy Awards will walk the red carpet on Sunday - with flashing camera lights, celebrity interviews and floral designs. Botanical artist Tu Bloom has been the designer behind the red carpet flowers for nearly two decades. He speaks to "CBS Mornings" about his design for this year's red carpet and what drew him to his profession.
U.S.
More U.S.
Democrat Christian Menefee wins special election for U.S. House in Texas
Democrat Christian Menefee won a Texas U.S. House seat in a special election Saturday that will narrow Republicans' already-slim majority.
Virginia woman was strangled with her child sleeping nearby, authorities say
Ten days before investigators say Katlyn Lyon Montgomery, 28, was strangled in her sleep in the Virginia apartment she shared with her 4-year-old daughter and a new roommate, she had broken up with Trenton Frye, a North Carolina man she met online months before.
Firefighter accused of staging a house fire to cover up a murder
It was Thanksgiving Eve 2020, and Melissa Lamesch was excited about the upcoming birth of her first child. Investigators would learn there was someone who was not as enthused — the expectant father, firefighter Matthew Plote.
Officials in Minnesota allege Bovino used language offensive to Jews on conference call
Top Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino allegedly used language offensive to Jewish federal officials on a recent call, sources said.
New ICE memo gives deportation officers more leeway to conduct warrantless arrests
The memo suggests the rules are designed to give ICE greater flexibility to quickly arrest unauthorized immigrants who are not the original targets of an operation.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Trump nominates government economist to lead Bureau of Labor Statistics
President Trump says he is nominating the government economist Brett Matsumoto to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
3 key questions for investors about Fed Chair nominee Kevin Warsh
Kevin Warsh, a former Fed governor, is in line to replace Fed Chair Jerome Powell in May. Here's what Wall Street wants to know.
Patients are being hit with this surprise fee just for seeing their doc
One patient reports getting stuck with a $2,418 "facility fee" after seeing her doctor. "I didn't even know such a thing existed," she said.
A new $45 fee for travelers without Real IDs goes into effect Feb. 1
Passengers without Real IDs can still fly if they pay a $45 fee, which covers the cost of additional identity verification screening.
Saks to shutter most Saks Off 5th stores as bankrupt retailer cuts costs
Saks, which declared bankruptcy on Jan. 14, is set to hold going-out-of-business sales as it closes dozens of retail outlets.
Politics
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Democrat Christian Menefee wins special election for U.S. House in Texas
Democrat Christian Menefee won a Texas U.S. House seat in a special election Saturday that will narrow Republicans' already-slim majority.
Explosion in Iranian port city ahead of Iran's naval drill in the Strait of Hormuz
The blast happened a day before a planned naval drill by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of all oil traded passes.
Officials in Minnesota allege Bovino used language offensive to Jews on conference call
Top Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino allegedly used language offensive to Jewish federal officials on a recent call, sources said.
Proposed Venezuelan bill could lead to release of hundreds of political prisoners
The U.S. Embassy for Venezuela also announced Friday that all American citizens detained in Venezuela have been released.
Federal judge denies Minnesota's request to temporarily halt Operation Metro Surge
Federal judge Kate Menendez denied Minnesota's motion for a temporary restraining order to halt "Operation Metro Surge" on Saturday. The court documents, filed on Saturday, state that Minnesota, Minneapolis, and St. Paul have not met their burden of proof.
HealthWatch
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Book excerpt: "The Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins
In her latest bestseller, the motivational speaker discusses how personal growth is only possible when you stop pouring energy into things you cannot control – which includes changing other people.
A cop thought he had a muscle cramp. He ended up fighting for his life.
Sgt. Chris Johnson was told that his heart condition had nearly been "instantly fatal." Rapid medical care and rigorous therapy helped him recover.
Patients are being hit with this surprise fee just for seeing their doc
One patient reports getting stuck with a $2,418 "facility fee" after seeing her doctor. "I didn't even know such a thing existed," she said.
Carter Center reaches major milestone in quest to eradicate Guinea worm
Jimmy Carter made eradicating the Guinea worm a top mission of The Carter Center. Now it could soon become the second disease eradicated in history.
Life expectancy in U.S. hit record high of 79 years in 2024, CDC says
U.S. life expectancy rose to 79 years in 2024 - the highest mark in American history. But the U.S. still ranks below dozens of other countries.
World
More World
Explosion in Iranian port city ahead of Iran's naval drill in the Strait of Hormuz
The blast happened a day before a planned naval drill by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of all oil traded passes.
Proposed Venezuelan bill could lead to release of hundreds of political prisoners
The U.S. Embassy for Venezuela also announced Friday that all American citizens detained in Venezuela have been released.
Satellite photos show activity at Iran nuclear sites as protest tensions rise
The images from Planet Labs PBC show that roofs have been built over two damaged buildings at the Isfahan and Natanz facilities.
Danish veterans protest outside U.S. Embassy over Greenland
Danish veterans are furious at the White House's rhetoric, which disregards Greenland's right to self-determination, a territory of NATO ally Denmark.
Israel strikes in Gaza kill at least 30 Palestinians
Hamas called Saturday's strikes "a renewed flagrant violation" and urged the United States and other mediating countries to push Israel to stop the strikes.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Recovered treasure leads to a Grammy nomination
Archivist and music historian Alex Palao worked to restore old tapes by "Sly and Family Stone" that gathered dust for decades. He co-produced the live album called "The First Family: Live at the Winchester Cathedral 1967." He is now nominated for "Best Album Notes" at Sunday's Grammy Awards. CBS News San Francisco's Max Darrow has the story.
"Sanford and Son" star Demond Wilson dies at 79
Actor Demond Wilson died in his California home due to complications from prostate cancer, CBS News learned on Saturday. He starred alongside Redd Foxx in "Sanford and Son," one of the biggest TV hits of the 1970s.
Demond Wilson, "Sanford and Son" and "The New Odd Couple" actor, dies at 79
In 1971, Demond Wilson appeared on an episode of "All in the Family," a role that led him to land a lead part in "Sanford and Son."
Courtney Marie Andrews performs "Everyone Wants To Feel Like You Do"
Courtney Marie Andrews started writing songs as a teenager and played in punk bands before starting out on her own. Since then, she has been nominated for a Grammy and become known for her vulnerable lyrics and dazzling voice. Now, from her new album "Valentine," here is Courtney Marie Andrews with "Everyone Wants To Feel Like You Do."
Courtney Marie Andrews performs "Cons and Clowns"
Courtney Marie Andrews started writing songs as a teenager and played in punk bands before starting out on her own. Since then, she has been nominated for a Grammy and become known for her vulnerable lyrics and dazzling voice. Now, from her new album "Valentine," here is Courtney Marie Andrews with "Cons and Clowns."
Technology
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Uber looks to cash in on self-driving cars — but not by driving them
The rideshare company is getting into the business of providing real-world driving data to autonomous vehicle developers. Here's why.
New AI features for Gmail users
This month, Google launched a suite of new features for Gmail. Google's AI assistant, Gemini, can now filter through junk, summarize an inbox and even help users write emails. Blake Barnes, Gmail vice president of product, joins CBS News to discuss.
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.
Analysts say Starlink may have guided Russian drones into a Ukrainian train
As Ukraine accuses Russia of terrorism with a deadly strike on a train, some defense analysts believe Elon Musk's Starlink may have guided the killer drones.
TikTok's new privacy policy is sparking a backlash. Here's what to know.
Some TikTok users are raising questions about the app's new terms and conditions after the social media platform's split from its China-based parent.
Science
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Scientists "quite surprised" to find one polar bear population thriving
After decades monitoring polar bears in Norway's far north, researchers say the animals have proven incredibly adaptable, but there are no guarantees for the future.
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
Cow develops technique to scratch herself
"CBS Saturday Morning" learns more about Veronika, the clever cow who figured out multiple ways to scratch herself with a broom. It was the first time a cow was seen using a tool.
Almanac: January 18
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
Fossils found at Dinosaur National Monument, first excavation in 100 years
The Dinosaur National Monument, which is located on the border between Colorado and Utah, was last excavated in 1924.
Crime
More Crime
Virginia woman was strangled with her child sleeping nearby, authorities say
Ten days before investigators say Katlyn Lyon Montgomery, 28, was strangled in her sleep in the Virginia apartment she shared with her 4-year-old daughter and a new roommate, she had broken up with Trenton Frye, a North Carolina man she met online months before.
Firefighter accused of staging a house fire to cover up a murder
It was Thanksgiving Eve 2020, and Melissa Lamesch was excited about the upcoming birth of her first child. Investigators would learn there was someone who was not as enthused — the expectant father, firefighter Matthew Plote.
Judge rules out death penalty for Mangione
A judge declared that Luigi Mangione will not face the death penalty if convicted on federal charges in the 2024 killing of United HealthCare CEO Brian Thompson. It's a big win for Mangione, though he still faces the possibility of life in prison.
Virginia woman strangled days after dumping her deceptive boyfriend
The prosecutor said Katlyn Lyon Montgomery's ex-boyfriend dressed as a "ninja" to sneak up on her while asleep in her Virginia apartment.
Why judge dropped 2 charges against Mangione
Luigi Mangione, the accused killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, will not face the death penalty after a judge on Friday dismissed two counts that could have carried a death sentence. CBS News legal contributor Caroline Polisi joins to take a look at the new ruling and what it means for the high-profile murder case.
Space
More Space
Space
NASA's Artemis II slated to be a series of firsts
Extreme cold has forced NASA to reschedule its next moon mission. On Saturday, the massive Artemis II rocket stands on launch pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center. Like Apollo 8 in 1968, it won't land on the lunar surface. Mark Strassmann has more on why the latest mission is considered groundbreaking.
NASA delays Artemis mission to moon due to cold weather
The first Artemis moonshot with a crew is now targeted for no earlier than Feb. 8, two days later than planned.
Artemis II crew undergoes intense training for rare moon mission
For months, the Artemis II crew and flight controllers have been simulating malfunctions to prepare for their upcoming trip around the Moon.
Inside Artemis II astronauts' training
NASA is preparing for its first crewed mission around the moon in more than 50 years. The Artemis II astronauts include three Americans and one Canadian on a 10-day flight. Mark Strassmann got a look at how they're training.
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
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
Recovered treasure leads to a Grammy nomination
Archivist and music historian Alex Palao worked to restore old tapes by "Sly and Family Stone" that gathered dust for decades. He co-produced the live album called "The First Family: Live at the Winchester Cathedral 1967." He is now nominated for "Best Album Notes" at Sunday's Grammy Awards. CBS News San Francisco's Max Darrow has the story.
NASA's Artemis II slated to be a series of firsts
Extreme cold has forced NASA to reschedule its next moon mission. On Saturday, the massive Artemis II rocket stands on launch pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center. Like Apollo 8 in 1968, it won't land on the lunar surface. Mark Strassmann has more on why the latest mission is considered groundbreaking.
"Sanford and Son" star Demond Wilson dies at 79
Actor Demond Wilson died in his California home due to complications from prostate cancer, CBS News learned on Saturday. He starred alongside Redd Foxx in "Sanford and Son," one of the biggest TV hits of the 1970s.
The Firefighter's Secret
A young woman is found dead in her burning home. She'd been involved with a firefighter — could he have set a fire to cover her murder? "48 Hours" contributor Nikki Battiste reports.
Iran set to conduct live fire drills
The U.S. military has assembled a formidable force within striking distance of Iran. Meanwhile, Iran said it would be starting live fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz this weekend as tensions in the region are sky high. Haley Ott reports.