Tip 4: Avoid fuzzy endings
The author told 60 Minutes why he felt he owed his readers a satisfying ending
Books
Tip 5: Writing routine
In 2017, the author’s daily ritual was early and uninterrupted -- A habit developed when he was writing in secret in MI6
Spy novelist's writing room
Author John le Carré showed 60 Minutes how he cut anything extraneous when he edited his work -- and why he avoided adjectives
Former New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern on projecting "A Different Kind of Power"
At 37 she became the world's youngest female head of government. Now a fellow at Harvard University, Jacinda Ardern talks about the importance of exhibiting kindness and empathy in politics.
Salman Rushdie on censorship in America today
Acclaimed author Salman Rushdie says the attack on free expression now comes from both the left and the right.
Bill Clinton and James Patterson on their new thriller, "The First Gentleman"
Former President Bill Clinton and author James Patterson have teamed up for their third book, a thriller: "The First Gentleman," in which the commander-in-chief is a woman – and her husband stands accused of murder.
Book excerpt: "The First Gentleman" by Bill Clinton and James Patterson
The former president and the bestselling author team up for their third novel, this time a thriller in which the husband of the president of the United States stands trial for murder.
Extended interview: Bill Clinton and James Patterson
The former president and the thriller writer previously teamed up on two #1 New York Times bestsellers. And now they've written their third thriller: "The First Gentleman," about a female president and her husband, who is on trial for murder. In this web exclusive, Bill Clinton and James Patterson talk with correspondent Tracy Smith about the process and joy of their collaborations; how the characters reflect an attitude in Washington where politics is a game; and, in the current political climate, the necessity of maintaining democracy.
Anne Tyler on a writer's "selfish motive" to explore other lives
The Pulitzer Prize-winner's tales of lives shattered and mended by love have broken countless hearts. In her latest, "Three Days in June," Anne Tyler details a weekend in the life of a divorced school administrator, bookended by the loss of her job and her daughter's wedding.
Book excerpt: "Three Days in June" by Anne Tyler
The Pulitzer Prize-winning author's latest novel – a New York Times bestseller – details a long weekend in the life of a divorced school administrator, bookended by the loss of her job and her daughter's wedding.
The Book Report: Ron Charles on new summer reads (May 25)
The Washington Post book reviewer offers highlights from the season's fiction and non-fiction releases.
Book excerpt: "Empire of AI" by Karen Hao
The tech journalist's new book examines Silicon Valley billionaire Sam Altman and his advocacy of artificial intelligence, which tech entrepreneur Elon Musk himself has called the "biggest existential threat" to humanity.
Book excerpt: "The Aviator and the Showman" by Laurie Gwen Shapiro
Using newly-uncovered sources, the documentary filmmaker and journalist explores Amelia Earhart's life and marriage to wealthy publisher George Putnam – a relationship that lifted love, publicity and especially risk to mythic heights.
Book excerpt: "Great Black Hope" by Rob Franklin
In his debut novel, author Rob Franklin follows a young African American man whose once-bright future feels anything but guaranteed, following an arrest for drug possession and the death of a close friend.
Book excerpt: "So Far Gone" by Jess Walter
The New York Times bestselling author of "Beautiful Ruins" is back with a new novel about a journalist living off the grid who is forced to rescue his grandchildren who are kidnapped by a right-wing militia.
Book excerpt: "A Summer for the Books" by Michelle Lindo-Rice
Michelle Lindo-Rice, the bestselling author of "A Fortune Thanksgiving" and "The Bookshop Sisterhood," returns with a new novel about former friends healing their relationship.
Oprah Winfrey unveils "The Emperor of Gladness" as latest book club pick
Oprah Winfrey reveals her newest selection on "CBS Mornings," praising Ocean Vuong's novel for its lyrical beauty and emotional power.
Book excerpt: "Who Knew" by Barry Diller
In his new memoir, the former TV, film and media executive explains the limitations of too much information - when instinct (for, like, what makes an intriguing Movie of the Week?) may be a better predictor of success.
Barry Diller on baring his soul in new memoir, "Who Knew"
In his combination business memoir and personal journey, the former media exec opens up about topics he had vowed never to talk about, including his early relations with men, as well as his decades-long relationship with designer Diane von Furstenberg.
Book excerpt: "The Afterlife of Malcolm X" by Mark Whitaker
In his book exploring the cultural hold that the activist continues to have decades after his death, journalist Mark Whitaker examines the artistic choices made by Spike Lee and Denzel Washington in their masterful 1992 biopic, "Malcolm X."
The remarkable life and afterlife of Malcolm X
On the 100th anniversary of the birth of Malcolm X, Mark Whitaker, author of "The Afterlife of Malcolm X," looks at how the charismatic and defiant Black leader's influence has grown in the decades following his assassination.
A moving bookstore finds helping hands (hundreds of them)
In Chelsea, Michigan, Michelle Tuplin, owner of Serendipity Books, decided to relocate her business to a larger space a few blocks away. But to move 9,000 books without breaking the bank, she asked for volunteers – and the town's book lovers did not disappoint. Steve Hartman reports.
Norah O'Donnell interviews Bono
In this episode of "Person to Person with Norah O'Donnell," O'Donnell travels to Dublin to talk to U2 frontman Bono about his new book "Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story." Bono opens up about how the Irish rock band stayed together for decades, his relationship with his father, and going to therapy. Ali Hewson, Bono's wife of 40 years, also sits down with O'Donnell for a rare interview about their relationship.
Geena Davis confronts childhood teasing and self-doubt in new children's book
In her debut children's book, "The Girl Who Was Too Big for the Page," Geena Davis shares how feeling out of place helped her craft a story about finding confidence.
Jeremy Renner opens up about what helped him survive accident
Oscar-nominated actor Jeremy Renner talks about the life lessons he shares in his new memoir, "My Next Breath."
Entertainment
Entertainment
Jon Hamm talks "Your Friends & Neighbors"
Jon Hamm previews "Your Friends & Neighbors" season 2 finale, saying "it is satisfying" and provides some answers for fans. He also talks about the relatability of the show's characters and reflects on "Mad Men."
André De Shields on Tony nomination
André De Shields speaks to "CBS Mornings" about starring in "Cats: The Jellicle Ball," which is a reimagining of Andrew Lloyd Webber's classical musical told through the lens of ballroom culture. De Shields talks about bringing ballroom to Broadway and his latest Tony nomination.
Tribeca at 25: NYC festival celebrates music, Broadway and New York stories
The 25th edition of the film and media festival opens on Wednesday, showcasing more than 100 world premiere documentaries and narrative features, as well as short films, live music, podcasts and conversations with leading entertainment figures.
Analyzing the YouTuber-to-filmmaker boom
The sci-fi horror flick "Backrooms" was the number one movie in the U.S. as of Tuesday. The filmmaker behind the movie, 20-year-old YouTuber Kane Parsons, is now the youngest director with a number one film globally. Brooks Barnes, The New York Times' chief Hollywood correspondent, joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
Peabo Bryson, singer known for Disney movie hits, dies at 75
Peabo Bryson, a two-time Grammy-winning singer and songwriter known for Disney movie hits "Beauty and the Beast" and "A Whole New World," has died at age 75.
YouTubers have big box office weekend
Two indie horror films made by YouTubers, "Backrooms" and "Obsession," beat out Disney's latest "Star Wars" movie in the box office this weekend. Steven Zeitchik, senior editor for the Hollywood Reporter, joins CBS News to discuss.
P!nk talks hosting Tony Awards
Grammy Award winner P!nk is preparing to host the Tony Awards on Sunday on CBS. The singer speaks with "CBS Mornings" about what to expect and why she asked her daughter for permission before agreeing to host.
Marilyn Monroe's friends honor the icon (1962)
Monday marks 100 years since the birth of the iconic Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe. On Aug. 10, 1962, six days after her death at the age of 36, CBS News aired a retrospective special about the legend's life, featuring interviews with friends, mentors and colleagues.
Vanilla Ice says he'd perform for anybody, including Putin and Iran
"It's not anything to do with politics. I don't know why they're turning it into politics," Vanilla Ice said of the Freedom 250 concerts planned in Washington, D.C.
Vanilla Ice on Freedom 250 concert series
A number of artists have recently said they will not perform at the upcoming multi-day Great American State Fair at Washington, D.C.'s National Mall. It's being put on by the group Freedom 250, which the BBC says was launched by the Trump administration, with the president appointing its CEO. Rapper Vanilla Ice joins to discuss why he believes the show must go on.
Horror films by YouTubers win big at box office
A pair of small-budget horror films made by YouTube creators, "Backrooms" and "Obsession," had a big weekend at the box office. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans reports.
Anna Faris on the new "Scary Movie"
Anna Faris, who stars in the new "Scary Movie," joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss reviving the role she played in the original film, which debuted in 2000.
Winnie Harlow discusses her new children's book
Model and entrepreneur Winnie Harlow sits down with "CBS Mornings" to discuss her new children's book, "Simply Winnie," and the message she hopes to pass on.
Rare photos of Beatles' final ticketed concert
No one knew it at the time, but the Beatles performed their final ticketed concert 60 years ago in San Francisco. Anne Makovec shows us a new collection of rare photos from that historic night.
5/31: Sunday Morning
Hosted by Jane Pauley. Featured: Marilyn Monroe at 100; former first lady Jill Biden; children detained at the ICE facility in Dilley, Texas; living "books" at The Human Library; pickleball superstar Anna Leigh Waters; and the Undercroft beneath the Lincoln Memorial opens to the public.
U.S.
More U.S.
U.S. destroys alleged drug boat in Pacific, killing 2 more people
At least 207 people have been killed since the Trump administration began targeting those it calls "narcoterrorists" in September.
Ohio State reaches $100 million settlement over school doctor accused of sex abuse
The school has fought lawsuits in federal court since 2018 brought by former student athletes against the university over its failure to stop abuse by Dr. Richard Strauss.
Flesh-eating New World screwworm found in Texas calf, USDA says
The USDA said the only animal affected was a 3-week-old calf in Zavala County, Texas, after larvae were identified in its umbilical area.
NASA reluctantly gives up on lost orbiter: "Best Mars mission ever"
NASA officials said the $582 million MAVEN orbiter could not be recovered after a problem on the far side of Mars late last year, and that its extraordinarily successful mission was at an end.
Victim of "horrifying" Chelsea murder identified after 26 years
"Chelsea Jane Doe," who was found brutally murdered in Massachusetts, has been identified as Tiffany Bradley of Pennsylvania.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
SpaceX plans record stock market debut that could make Elon Musk a trillionaire
SpaceX says it plans to raise up to $75 billion when it goes public this month in what could be the largest stock market debut ever, and it would put Elon Musk on course to becoming the first trillionaire.
American Airlines suspends 6 routes because of high jet fuel costs
American Airlines said it is temporarily cutting six routes amid rising jet fuel costs, including several flights to Los Angeles.
Ford recalls nearly 420,000 vehicles over faulty seat belts
Safety watchdog said seat belts in certain Ford Expedition and Lincoln vehicles may inadvertently lock, preventing them from functioning properly.
These are the best airlines in 2026, according to The Points Guy
The Points Guy's annual ranking gives extra weight to affordability this year as higher fuel costs and airline fees squeeze travelers.
Outback Steakhouse sued for $1.5M over alleged mashed potato slip-and-fall
A Virginia woman alleges she suffered serious injuries after slipping on what appeared to be mashed potatoes at an Outback Steakhouse.
Politics
More Politics
U.S. destroys alleged drug boat in Pacific, killing 2 more people
At least 207 people have been killed since the Trump administration began targeting those it calls "narcoterrorists" in September.
Trump expected to nominate Todd Blanche as permanent attorney general
President Trump is expected to nominate Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to serve in the role permanently, several sources familiar with the matter told CBS News.
SPLC asks judge to weigh sanctions against DOJ for sending out unsigned indictment copy
The Southern Poverty Law Center asked a judge to consider sanctioning federal prosecutors, after the DOJ shared an unsigned and unstamped copy of a superseding indictment with members of the media.
Israel and Lebanon agree to renew ceasefire if Hezbollah cuts off attacks
The Israeli and Lebanese governments have agreed to implement a ceasefire, after weeks of deadly fighting between Israel and Hezbollah had imperiled broader negotiations between the U.S. and Iran to end their conflict.
House votes to rein in Trump on Iran as war loses GOP support
In May, the Senate advanced a similar measure to force the president to end the prolonged conflict with Iran.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
Upcoming billing change could make pregnancy pricier
Come January, pregnancy care physician billing codes will change from a bundled system to an à la carte one.
Possible flesh-eating screwworm case in Texas, USDA says
A possible case of the flesh-eating New World screwworm is being investigated in Texas, the USDA reported Wednesday.
WHO massively scales back number of suspected Ebola cases in Congo
While 330 Ebola infections are confirmed in central Africa and huge challenges remain, hundreds more suspected cases "have been cleared out," the WHO says.
Details on promising pancreatic cancer drug
A new drug was shown in trials to keep pancreatic cancer patients alive for twice as long as chemotherapy alone. Dr. Jon LaPook has more.
A nurse stole fentanyl and AI missed it, state records say
Sentri7, drug diversion software powered by artificial intelligence and used at hundreds of U.S. hospitals, did not catch a monthslong string of fentanyl thefts in Tennessee in 2025, according to a state document.
World
More World
Israel and Lebanon agree to renew ceasefire if Hezbollah cuts off attacks
The Israeli and Lebanese governments have agreed to implement a ceasefire, after weeks of deadly fighting between Israel and Hezbollah had imperiled broader negotiations between the U.S. and Iran to end their conflict.
North Korea announces opening of a new nuclear facility
State media photos showed what appeared to be a large centrifuge hall, indicating the plant is likely used to enrich weapons-grade uranium.
House votes to rein in Trump on Iran as war loses GOP support
In May, the Senate advanced a similar measure to force the president to end the prolonged conflict with Iran.
8 bagged bodies found with note in narco-trafficking hotspot
The discovery comes in the midst of a U.S.-backed military crackdown on the organized crime gangs in Ecuador.
Scientists find yeast in frozen mummy's guts, use it to make bread
More than 5,300 years ago, Oetzi the Iceman was strolling through the Alps on the border of Austria and Italy when he was killed by an arrow in the back.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Entertainment
Jon Hamm talks "Your Friends & Neighbors"
Jon Hamm previews "Your Friends & Neighbors" season 2 finale, saying "it is satisfying" and provides some answers for fans. He also talks about the relatability of the show's characters and reflects on "Mad Men."
André De Shields on Tony nomination
André De Shields speaks to "CBS Mornings" about starring in "Cats: The Jellicle Ball," which is a reimagining of Andrew Lloyd Webber's classical musical told through the lens of ballroom culture. De Shields talks about bringing ballroom to Broadway and his latest Tony nomination.
Tribeca at 25: NYC festival celebrates music, Broadway and New York stories
The 25th edition of the film and media festival opens on Wednesday, showcasing more than 100 world premiere documentaries and narrative features, as well as short films, live music, podcasts and conversations with leading entertainment figures.
Analyzing the YouTuber-to-filmmaker boom
The sci-fi horror flick "Backrooms" was the number one movie in the U.S. as of Tuesday. The filmmaker behind the movie, 20-year-old YouTuber Kane Parsons, is now the youngest director with a number one film globally. Brooks Barnes, The New York Times' chief Hollywood correspondent, joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
Peabo Bryson, singer known for Disney movie hits, dies at 75
Peabo Bryson, a two-time Grammy-winning singer and songwriter known for Disney movie hits "Beauty and the Beast" and "A Whole New World," has died at age 75.
Technology
More Technology
Technology
ChatGPT user describes AI-fueled delusions
CBS News spoke with five people who say they were led to believe they had developed an emotional connection to an AI chatbot. They are now involved in a digital support group for people who say they experienced AI-fueled delusions or spirals. ChatGPT user Micky Small joins "The Daily Report" to share her experience.
OpenAI CEO meets with lawmakers on Capitol Hill
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman met with Republican and Democratic lawmakers on Wednesday to oppose proposals that would require developers to obtain government approval before releasing new artificial intelligence models. Jordan Rae Kelly, former director for cyber incident response on the National Security Council, joins with analysis.
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.
Microsoft VP explains its AI assistant Scout
Microsoft announced a slew of new AI products during its annual Microsoft Build developers conference in San Francisco. Scott Hanselman, a Microsoft vice president, speaks with CBS News about the product.
Meta unveils new AI business agent
Businesses can now expand their AI customer service with Meta's help. Senior technology reporter Abrar Al-Heeti joins CBS News to talk about that and some of the other big tech stories of the day.
Science
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El Niño could bring more widespread coral bleaching, NOAA warns
The expected arrival of El Niño this summer could trigger another mass coral bleaching event, which would be the fifth on record, researchers said.
Scientists find yeast in frozen mummy's guts, use it to make bread
More than 5,300 years ago, Oetzi the Iceman was strolling through the Alps on the border of Austria and Italy when he was killed by an arrow in the back.
Meteor lights up southern Michigan
Days after a meteor exploded over New England, another fireball was spotted, visible in the Midwest to the Northeast. Rob Marciano has more.
Ancient coin, mysterious markings found under Notre Dame cathedral
A team of archaeologists at the iconic cathedral is digging straight down and back in time, to Roman Paris 2,000 years ago.
NASA taps 2 companies to develop buggies for its moon base program
The FLEX Rover will be equipped to carry two astronauts and traverse hundreds of miles of lunar terrain.
Crime
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1 dead, 3 hurt in high school graduation shooting in Northern California, officials say
One person died and three others, including a child, were injured in a shooting Wednesday night at a high school graduation in Northern California, officials said.
Ohio State reaches $100 million settlement over school doctor accused of sex abuse
The school has fought lawsuits in federal court since 2018 brought by former student athletes against the university over its failure to stop abuse by Dr. Richard Strauss.
Coast Guard searching in Lynette Hooker case
A team of specialized Coast Guard divers and investigators have been searching the Sea of Abaco in the Bahamas for missing Michigan mother Lynette Hooker. Cristian Benavides reports.
FBI kills hostage-taker in California
A 15-hour standoff at a bank building in Bakersfield, California, ended Wednesday after all hostages were freed and the suspect was killed by the FBI. Jonathan Vigliotti reports.
Details on suspect in bank hostage standoff
All hostages are safe and a suspect is dead after an hourslong standoff at a bank in California, police said on Wednesday. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has the details.
Space
More Space
NASA reluctantly gives up on lost orbiter: "Best Mars mission ever"
NASA officials said the $582 million MAVEN orbiter could not be recovered after a problem on the far side of Mars late last year, and that its extraordinarily successful mission was at an end.
Blue Origin vows to resume New Glenn launches despite explosion
Damage to Blue Origin's lone launch pad in the wake of last week's spectacular explosion was not as severe as initially feared, the company said.
NASA taps 2 companies to develop buggies for its moon base program
The FLEX Rover will be equipped to carry two astronauts and traverse hundreds of miles of lunar terrain.
Blue Origin assesses impact of New Glenn explosion
Blue Origin assess the impact of Thursday's New Glenn explosion, prompting concern about NASA moon program delays.
Blue micromoon makes rare appearance this weekend
A rare blue micromoon will appear in night skies this weekend. Here's what to expect.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Notable Deaths in 2026
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
ChatGPT user describes AI-fueled delusions
CBS News spoke with five people who say they were led to believe they had developed an emotional connection to an AI chatbot. They are now involved in a digital support group for people who say they experienced AI-fueled delusions or spirals. ChatGPT user Micky Small joins "The Daily Report" to share her experience.
U.S.-Iran tensions on rise
Over the past 24 hours, the U.S. and Iran have executed some of the most intense fighting since the ceasefire went into effect, and unlike other cases where military targets were hit, a civilian area came under fire. CBS News national security analyst Aaron MacLean has more.
State of primary ballot count in California
Election results from California's primary races were still coming in on Wednesday. CBS News' Anthony Salvanto has the latest on the races.
Video store sees new demand for VHS tapes, DVDs
A Brooklyn video store is going old school and it's drawing a new generation of movie fans. Evyn Moon shows how DVD and VHS are making a comeback as people trade algorithms for aisle browsing.
6/3: The Takeout with Major Garrett
House passes measure that would rein in Trump on Iran; Trump says Iran talks are ongoing despite recent attack.