The Book Report: Reviews from Washington Post critic Ron Charles (August 1)
Recommendations of new fiction and non-fiction titles.
Archives
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.
The Book Report: New fiction and nonfiction (August 1)
Washington Post book critic Ron Charles checks out some of the latest "beach reads," including Cynthia Barnett's "The Sound of the Sea: Seashells and the Fate of the Oceans."
From 2000: Informercial king Ron Popeil
TV pitchman Ron Popeil, who became a ubiquitous presence on TV by selling household gadgets to millions, died July 28, 2021 at the age of 86. In this "Sunday Morning" profile originally broadcast on January 9, 2000, correspondent Bill Geist talked with Popeil about his rise from demonstrating inventions at lunch counters, to mastering the airwaves with his informercials for the Veg-O-Matic, the Pocket Fisherman, and countless other devices you just couldn't live without.
This week on "Sunday Morning" (August 1)
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the #1 Sunday morning news program
Fame Recording Studios, home of the "Muscle Shoals Sound"
For more than 60 years the Alabama music landmark has hosted such artists as Aretha Franklin, Little Richard, The Rolling Stones and Demi Lovato.
Nature: Assateague Island
"Sunday Morning" takes us among the wild horses of Assateague Island National Seashore off the Maryland and Virginia coast. Videographer: Michael Clark.
A sense of direction: Finding your way without GPS
Many animals share a unique sense of navigation, but not all humans are so gifted. Dr. Jon LaPook (who describes himself as "direction-challenged") shares tips from experts about how better to steer ourselves through uncharted territory – and get back again.
A sense of direction: Finding your way without GPS
Many creatures of the animal kingdom share a unique sense of navigation, but not all humans are so gifted. CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook (who describes himself as "direction-challenged") shares tips from experts about how better to steer ourselves through uncharted territory – and get back again.
Geena Davis on increasing opportunities for women on screen
Thirty years after starring in the transcendent tale of female friendship "Thelma and Louise," the Oscar-winning actress is still fighting to improve opportunities for women in the film industry, in front of, and behind, the camera.
Geena Davis on increasing opportunities for women on screen
Thirty years after the Oscar-winning actress starred in the transcendent tale of female friendship "Thelma & Louise," Geena Davis is still fighting to improve opportunities for women in the film industry. She talked with correspondent Tracy Smith about seeking change in front of, and behind, the camera; playing an athlete (and becoming one); and what she'd like her headstone to read.
Chance meeting
Six-year-old Raelynn Nast, of Fort Smith, Ark., has always been proud of her father, Davey, and always wanted to introduce him to everybody. When Emily Beineman was jogging with her dog past a funeral home, Raelynn proudly asked her if she'd like to meet her dad, who was lying inside. Unsure, Beineman followed her gut, and followed Raelynn down the aisle. Correspondent Steve Hartman reports on how an act of kindness has bonded the two together.
Exclusive
Trump pardon recipients face congressional probe over "pay-to-play" questions
Democrats are investigating clemency recipients who may have obtained favorable treatment from Trump or his advisers.
Live
Trump says war to end quickly as Iran claims control of Strait of Hormuz
As President Trump again voices optimism that Iran will "make a deal" to end the war, Tehran declares itself the regulator of Strait of Hormuz shipping.
Rubio and Pope Leo meet at the Vatican after weeks of tension
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pope Leo XIV met Thursday at the Vatican to discuss the situation in the Middle East and other matters.
Blanche: Immigrants who committed fraud to become U.S. citizens should worry
The acting attorney general is touting the administration's stepped-up denaturalization efforts.
14 tornadoes reported in Mississippi as storms ravage homes, knock out power
The storms collapsed hundreds of homes, downed trees and knocked out power lines in multiple counties, officials said.
Jeffrey Epstein's possible suicide note released by judge
A former cellmate has previously claimed that the note was written by Epstein after a failed suicide attempt less than a month before his death.
Trump promised cheaper drugs. Some prices dropped. Many others shot up.
Since his second term started, President Trump has introduced a flurry of initiatives aimed at taming the excesses of the pharmaceutical industry.
3 evacuated from hantavirus cruise as Spain says it will dock in Tenerife
Three passengers have been evacuated from a cruise ship hit by a hantavirus outbreak, as related cases are confirmed in Switzerland and South Africa.
Suspect arrested in Oklahoma party shooting that killed 1, injured 22
Police said they have arrested an 18-year-old in connection with a shooting Sunday during a party that left one woman dead and 22 other people wounded.
U.S.
More U.S.
14 tornadoes reported in Mississippi as storms ravage homes, knock out power
The storms collapsed hundreds of homes, downed trees and knocked out power lines in multiple counties, officials said.
Woman dies while competing in 250-mile Arizona ultramarathon
A woman in her 40s was participating in the grueling race and collapsed at a trailhead, officials said.
Agents can kill bears from the air to protect Alaska caribou, judge says
The Mulchatna caribou herd is expected to begin calving soon, and the babies are particularly susceptible to being eaten by bears or wolves.
Exclusive
Trump pardon recipients face congressional probe over "pay-to-play" questions
Congressional Democrats are investigating clemency recipients who may have obtained favorable treatment from Trump or his advisers "through intermediaries, financial contributions, or other forms of influence."
Hottest U.S. gas prices in years leave drivers feeling burned
Americans on tight budgets are getting hit especially hard by surging fuel costs, forcing some to make hard choices.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
That discount at the pharmacy counter may pack hidden costs
The new TrumpRx program relies partly on connecting consumers with discount coupons offered by drugmakers. For insured patients, though, using a coupon can prove dicey.
Trump promised cheaper drugs. Some prices dropped. Many others shot up.
Since his second term started, President Trump has introduced a flurry of initiatives aimed at taming the excesses of the pharmaceutical industry.
Hottest U.S. gas prices in years leave drivers feeling burned
Americans on tight budgets are getting hit especially hard by surging fuel costs, forcing some to make hard choices.
iPhone owners could get up to $95 from a new Apple settlement
A proposed $250 million settlement would compensate millions of consumers who bought the iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Food manufacturer Cento is committing "tomato fraud," lawsuit alleges
In a new lawsuit, two California residents allege that Cento Fine Foods doesn't use real San Marzano tomatoes in one of its products.
Politics
More Politics
Rubio and Pope Leo meet at the Vatican after weeks of tension
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pope Leo XIV met Thursday at the Vatican to discuss the situation in the Middle East and other matters.
Blanche: Immigrants who committed fraud to become U.S. citizens should worry
The acting attorney general is touting the administration's stepped-up denaturalization efforts.
Trump promised cheaper drugs. Some prices dropped. Many others shot up.
Since his second term started, President Trump has introduced a flurry of initiatives aimed at taming the excesses of the pharmaceutical industry.
Exclusive
Trump pardon recipients face congressional probe over "pay-to-play" questions
Congressional Democrats are investigating clemency recipients who may have obtained favorable treatment from Trump or his advisers "through intermediaries, financial contributions, or other forms of influence."
Rudy Giuliani out of ICU after hospitalization for pneumonia
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani has now left the intensive care unit, his spokesperson said, after being hospitalized with pneumonia.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
That discount at the pharmacy counter may pack hidden costs
The new TrumpRx program relies partly on connecting consumers with discount coupons offered by drugmakers. For insured patients, though, using a coupon can prove dicey.
Trump promised cheaper drugs. Some prices dropped. Many others shot up.
Since his second term started, President Trump has introduced a flurry of initiatives aimed at taming the excesses of the pharmaceutical industry.
What's the hantavirus risk to the public?
A deadly strain of hantavirus broke out aboard a cruise ship for the first time, with more than 150 people on board. With three deaths among eight confirmed cases so far, Dr. Céline Gounder discusses the wider risks.
What's next for those aboard cruise ship?
Investigators are racing to control a deadly outbreak of hantavirus, the first ever recorded on a cruise ship. More than 140 people are still on board, including 17 Americans. Tom Hanson reports.
3 evacuated from hantavirus cruise as Spain says it will dock in Tenerife
Three passengers have been evacuated from a cruise ship hit by a hantavirus outbreak, as related cases are confirmed in Switzerland and South Africa.
World
More World
Rubio and Pope Leo meet at the Vatican after weeks of tension
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pope Leo XIV met Thursday at the Vatican to discuss the situation in the Middle East and other matters.
Live
Trump says war to end quickly as Iran claims control of Strait of Hormuz
As President Trump again voices optimism that Iran will "make a deal" to end the war, Tehran declares itself the regulator of Strait of Hormuz shipping.
3 evacuated from hantavirus cruise as Spain says it will dock in Tenerife
Three passengers have been evacuated from a cruise ship hit by a hantavirus outbreak, as related cases are confirmed in Switzerland and South Africa.
13-year-old student kills 2 women at school in Brazil
A 13-year-old student admitted carrying out the attack at the public school Instituto Sao Jose in Rio Branco, officials said.
Trump threatens Iran strikes, says it's too soon for new direct talks
Trump threatens Iran with "higher level" strikes if it won't accept a peace deal, but says it's too soon for direct talks after reporting diplomatic progress.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Entertainment
Exclusive preview of "I Will Find You"
"CBS Mornings" has an exclusive preview of the new Netflix series "I Will Find You," which is based on Harlan Coben's 2023 novel. Coben, who is also an executive producer on the series, talks about what inspired the story and how closely he worked on Netflix film adaptation.
Documentary explores maternal healthcare
Christy Turlington Burns, the founder and president of the nonprofit "Every Mother Counts," speaks about her new documentary, which explores the state of maternal healthcare following the end of Roe v. Wade. She discusses the different risks for women and why this is personal for her.
How Ted Turner transformed media
Ted Turner, who died on Wednesday at age 87, was a global media titan. Amol Sharma, a financial editor for The Wall Street Journal, joins CBS News with more insight.
How Ted Turner changed TV
Media mogul and CNN founder Ted Turner has died at 87, according to a statement from Turner Enterprises. Michael Schneider, Variety's executive editor of TV, joins with more.
Anthony Mason launches YouTube show
CBS News' Anthony Mason is launching a new YouTube show called "Alchemy with Anthony Mason." It's a long-form interview program celebrating artists and the creative process.
Technology
More Technology
Technology
What to know about Apple settlement
If you bought an iPhone recently you may be able to get some of your money back. Apple has agreed to a $250 million settlement in a lawsuit over false advertising. Kelly O'Grady explains who is eligible.
Autonomous cars to be ticketed in California
Autonomous cars in California will no longer be immune to traffic tickets once a new law takes effect in July. CNET editor-at-large Scott Stein joins CBS News to discuss this and other top technology stories of the day.
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.
iPhone owners could get up to $95 from a new Apple settlement
A proposed $250 million settlement would compensate millions of consumers who bought the iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Employers are demanding AI skills. What's the best way to learn them?
Career experts say workers and job seekers should take charge of their own AI education. Here's how to get started.
Science
More Science
Mysterious world beyond Pluto may have atmosphere, study says
If confirmed, the rock would become just the second world past Neptune in our solar system to host an atmosphere.
Bill Nye on the Artemis II moon mission
Bill Nye The Science Guy, the chief ambassador of The Planetary Society, joins CBS News 24/7 Mornings with more after meeting the Artemis II crew in person after their successful mission around the moon.
Trump administration fires board overseeing National Science Foundation
The Trump administration has fired all 22 current members of an independent board that oversees the National Science Foundation, one dismissed member says.
AI used to reveal face of victim fleeing Mount Vesuvius eruption
Archaeologists found the victim holding a terracotta mortar, which they interpret as an improvised attempt to shield his head.
In a first, endangered orangutan seen using canopy bridge to cross road
Rapid development has been shrinking the jungle habitat of the critically endangered species, and fatal conflicts with people have been increasing.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Mother of 4 released by ICE speaks out
Meenu Batra, a certified court interpreter for more than 20 years, is speaking out after spending more than six weeks in ICE custody. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul reports.
Note apparently written by Epstein emerges
A note apparently written by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein before his death has been made public. CBS News' Anna Schecter has more.
Possible Epstein suicide note released
A judge on Wednesday ordered the release of an apparent suicide note possibly written by the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. CBS News has not independently verified the note. Anna Schecter has the latest.
Retired special forces soldier accused of shooting wife in Tennessee found dead
Craig Berry, 53, was found dead on Wednesday of an apparent gunshot wound, the Stewart County Sheriff's Office said.
Driver accused of chasing child on sidewalk
A woman in Washington state is accused of trying to run over a child on an e-bike. Police say she later attempted to break into a home. The child was not harmed in the incident and the woman is now facing felony charges.
Space
More Space
Mysterious world beyond Pluto may have atmosphere, study says
If confirmed, the rock would become just the second world past Neptune in our solar system to host an atmosphere.
Artemis crew surprises 5-year-old aspiring astronaut with special gift
The Artemis II team gained a new member, and the crew made sure their youngest teammate had the right stuff for space.
Artemis II crew reveals what snack they ate right after splashdown
The Artemis II astronauts said they actually really enjoyed the space food, but it was a familiar candy they enjoyed after splashing down in the Pacific Ocean.
Artemis II astronauts talk mission toilet troubles: "We made do"
The plumbing issues aboard the Orion capsule became headline news in the early days of the historic Artemis II mission.
Only on CBS
Artemis crew tells kids moon flight was "the best roller coaster ride"
The Artemis II astronauts joined "CBS Mornings" for a live town hall where they took questions from kids just weeks after returning from their historic moon mission.
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
Exclusive preview of "I Will Find You"
"CBS Mornings" has an exclusive preview of the new Netflix series "I Will Find You," which is based on Harlan Coben's 2023 novel. Coben, who is also an executive producer on the series, talks about what inspired the story and how closely he worked on Netflix film adaptation.
Sponsored
Data on more small businesses popping up
More Americans are starting and expanding small businesses, according to new data. CBS News' Jill Schlesinger has more. (Sponsored by AT&T Business)
Documentary explores maternal healthcare
Christy Turlington Burns, the founder and president of the nonprofit "Every Mother Counts," speaks about her new documentary, which explores the state of maternal healthcare following the end of Roe v. Wade. She discusses the different risks for women and why this is personal for her.
AI skills becoming vital for job candidates
More employers are seeking job candidates with AI skills. CBS MoneyWatch reporter Megan Cerullo has more details.
FDA approves fruit-flavored e-cigarettes
The FDA has approved fruit-flavored e-cigarettes for adults for the first time, despite evidence showing they encourage younger people to smoke. CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Celine Gounder breaks down what to know about the controversial decision.