Book excerpt: "The Beast in the Clouds" by Nathalia Holt
In the latest book by the bestselling author of "Rise of the Rocket Girls," two sons of Theodore Roosevelt set out for China on a quest to find a mythical creature: the giant panda.
Books
Book excerpt: "Bug Hollow" by Michelle Huneven
A summer lark turns tragic, and a shattered family must carry on, in the latest novel by the author of "Round Rock" and "Blame."
Book excerpt: "The Satisfaction Café" by Kathy Wang
In her search to overcome loneliness and build connections, a woman from Taiwan creates a new life for herself in California, in a gently witty new novel from the author of "Family Trust."
Book excerpt: "The Slip" by Lucas Schaefer
This debut comic novel, set in and around a boxing gym in Austin, Texas, pounces on issues of race, sex and gender identity in America today.
Book excerpt: "I Regret Almost Everything: A Memoir" by Keith McNally
The phenomenally successful New York City restaurateur's irreverent memoir recounts a life that was battered by a stroke, followed by an almost-successful suicide attempt.
Book excerpt: "Me, But Better: The Science and Promise of Personality Change"
Atlantic staff writer Olga Khazan, a lifelong introvert, set out to change aspects of her personality she didn't like by forcing herself outside of her comfort zone. How about trying improv comedy?
From the archives: Martin Cruz Smith on writing mysteries
Martin Cruz Smith, author of such bestsellers as "Gorky Park" and "Polar Star," died on July 11, 2025, at age 82. In this "Sunday Morning" profile that aired Oct. 20, 2002, Smith talked with correspondent Anthony Mason about how he continued writing mysteries featuring Moscow detective Arkady Renko, despite being blacklisted by the Soviet Union. He also discussed the "boring" aspects of writing, and the research he conducted in Japan for his novel "December 6," set in Tokyo on the eve of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
Ron Chernow on the life of Mark Twain
The Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer's latest book delves into the life, complexities and sardonic humor of a man who remains a vital presence in American culture.
Book excerpt: "Mark Twain" by Ron Chernow
The latest book from the Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer of George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and Ulysses S. Grant examines the life of one of America's greatest and most beloved writers.
William Buckley and his drive to propel America to the right
The political commentator - subject of a new biography, "Buckley: The Life and The Revolution That Changed America" - had a vital role in elevating McCarthy, Goldwater and Reagan, catalyzing a conservative movement that reshaped the GOP – and the country.
Book excerpt: "Buckley: The Life and the Revolution That Changed America"
Sam Tanenhaus' new biography examines the life and influence of the political commentator, magazine editor and TV debater who catalyzed America's conservative movement.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski on navigating Washington under Trump
In a polarized Washington, Alaska's senior senator is a moderate in a Republican Party dominated by President Trump. She writes about her political challenges in a new memoir, "Far from Home."
"Break on Through": How The Doors began
Sixty years ago, a new band came together in Venice, Calif., and lit the music world on fire. "Sunday Morning" joins John Densmore and Robby Krieger on a tour of where it all started for The Doors, who are being celebrated with a new book, "Night Divides the Day."
Book excerpt: "Far From Home" by Lisa Murkowski
In her memoir, Alaska's senior senator offers a message to Americans about how to get an increasingly partisan government back on track: "It's your responsibility."
Desi Arnaz: Singer, husband, dad, and the man who "invented" TV
The Cuban-born entertainer broke conventions when he co-starred with wife Lucille Ball in "I Love Lucy," playing a straight-man sitcom dad. Now, a new biography reveals his lesser-known contributions to television.
More From Sunday Morning
This week on "Sunday Morning" (July 5)
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the Emmy-winning program, hosted by Jane Pauley.
Douglas Brinkley on America at 250: History tells us hoping for unity is not futile
In these fiercely-polarized times, the presidential historian reminds us that Americans' freedom has been tested – and has survived – much worse.
Larry David on "Life, Larry, and the Pursuit of Unhappiness"
The comic icon behind "Curb Your Enthusiasm" brings his own perspective to America's storied past in a new HBO sketch comedy series – finally making use of his history major from college.
The Equal Rights Amendment: A promise unfulfilled
An Equal Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution – guaranteeing rights to all Americans regardless of sex – was first proposed to Congress in 1923. More than a century later, the ERA still has not become a formal part of our nation's bedrock of laws.
Only in America: The rise of Viet-Cajun cuisine
Chef Trong Nguyen came from Vietnam as a teenager in the 1980s, and discovered that the clean bright flavors of Vietnamese food he grew up with paired perfectly with, of all things, the earthy, smoky spice of Cajun cuisine.
The "Sunday Morning" Essential American Songbook: Defining America through its music
As our nation celebrates its 250th birthday, "Sunday Morning" asked some notable Americans to name their favorite songs by American artists. The result: A diverse list of 250 songs from all musical genres that reflects a beautiful representation of America itself.
Historic Route 66: Americana on the go
Though long bypassed by interstates, the historic "Mother Road," stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, remained a place for drivers to "get their kicks." Today, marking its first 100 years, Route 66 continues to attract travelers searching for an America of yesterday.
The Founding Fathers: Why their radical beliefs continue to shape America
The men who signed the Declaration of Independence were flawed, but what they did in the summer of 1776 changed the world forever – and their fight for equality continues today.
This week on "Sunday Morning" (June 28)
Jane Pauley hosts a special program celebrating our nation's semiquincentennial, "These United States - America at 250."
250 essential American songs to mark nation's birthday
What are the essential American songs? To mark the nation's 250th birthday, we asked that question to Sunday Morning's familiar faces, from performers to artists and writers to community leaders.
U.S.
More U.S.
Pope Leo spends July 4th at migrant cemetery in Italy, meets with U.S. ambassador
After the pope's visit to the Sicilian island of Lampedusa, the U.S. Embassy said the ambassador to the Holy See gave Leo a commemorative baseball, an apple pie and a U.S. World Cup jersey.
Heat and severe storms damper July 4th celebrations, leave thousands without power
While millions of Americans across the Northeast experienced record-setting temperatures, thunderstorms in the Midwest downed trees, ruptured power lines and made transportation treacherous.
DNA technology leads to identification of Revolutionary War soldier
The remains of a Revolutionary War soldier were identified as a young man from Maryland just before America's 250th anniversary.
Serena Williams withdraws from Wimbledon doubles match with sister Venus
Serena Williams cited a knee injury behind her decision to withdraw from a doubles match at Wimbledon.
Live
Weather woes impact July 4th celebrations as National Mall briefly evacuated
Americans are celebrating 250 years of independence this Fourth of July, although severe weather is putting a damper on the proceedings in several parts of the country.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
More than 100,000 fireworks recalled ahead of July 4
Federal safety regulators are urging consumers to stop using the recalled fireworks and return them for a full refund.
How to save money on air conditioning as electric bills climb
As Americans endure another bout of extreme heat, experts say small thermostat adjustments and other energy-saving steps can help reduce soaring cooling costs.
Here's who won — and lost — under Trump's "big, beautiful bill"
A year after President Trump signed the sweeping tax and spending package, its effects on households, businesses and federal programs are increasingly evident.
U.S. says it's monitoring oil markets for price-fixing, urges states to do same
Antitrust regulators suggested that state attorneys general could assist in investigating unlawful conduct by companies.
What's open and closed on July 3 and July 4? See which stores are operating.
Major retail stores will be open on Friday, although some may have modified hours on Saturday, July 4.
Politics
More Politics
6 presidential speeches that shaped American history
These six presidential speeches are some that have most reverberated through the ages, and whose impacts are still felt today.
Trump warns of "communist menace" in speech at Mount Rushmore
The president kicked off America's 250th anniversary celebrations with a speech at Mount Rushmore where he warned of a resurgence in communism.
Trump announces pardons for pollution violators prosecuted for "fixing their car"
CBS News previously reported President Trump was weighing pardons of a slate of people convicted of emissions and clean air-related violations.
Trump gifted lavish ring from Belgian diamond group that won tariff relief
The gift comes months after Belgium's diamond industry won the removal of U.S. tariffs on diamond imports.
Inside the security operations for July Fourth celebrations in D.C.
The Fourth of July celebrations in Washington, D.C., are deemed a "national special security event," which is the highest possible designation.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
1 symptom leads to dad's cancer diagnosis: "I was like, 'Wait, what?'"
Eric Dillon thought the pain in his shoulder was a minor injury. It took two years to get the real answer.
Why tick season is expected to be worse than normal
The CDC is reporting the highest rate of emergency room visits from tick bites since 2017 in many parts of the U.S.
Investigation
What a Brooklyn bodega reveals about the craze for an experimental weight-loss drug
It isn't approved by the FDA, but we found an experimental weight-loss drug called retatrutide for sale at a local convenience store.
Actor Danny Glover reveals Alzheimer's diagnosis
Actor Danny Glover spoke about his Alzheimer's diagnosis in an interview with NBC's "Today" show, revealing that he has been living with the disease for several years.
Medicare to help pay for some GLP-1 drugs
Starting Wednesday, Medicare will help pay for some GLP-1 medications for weight loss. CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Celine Gounder explains what this means for patients.
World
More World
Pope Leo spends July 4th at migrant cemetery in Italy, meets with U.S. ambassador
After the pope's visit to the Sicilian island of Lampedusa, the U.S. Embassy said the ambassador to the Holy See gave Leo a commemorative baseball, an apple pie and a U.S. World Cup jersey.
Egypt uncovers lost Byzantine-era city in the western desert
The fourth-century residential city in the western desert is one of two major archaeological finds announced by Egypt on Saturday.
Prince Harry to travel solo to London amid security flap
Meghan and his children may eventually join him on the rest of the trip outside London, the source said.
Trump gifted lavish ring from Belgian diamond group that won tariff relief
The gift comes months after Belgium's diamond industry won the removal of U.S. tariffs on diamond imports.
Prince William appears on "New Heights" podcast ahead of Swift-Kelce wedding
Prince William will appear on the podcast hosted by Jason and Travis Kelce just hours before Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift's anticipated wedding.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Taylor and Travis say yes at MSG
The vows have been exchanged, the party is over, and slowly, details are emerging about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding. Lilia Luciano reports.
Are drones the new fireworks?
While many in the U.S. light fireworks on the Fourth of July, some towns are turning to drones as a cleaner, quieter alternative. Mark Strassmann gets a preview in Texas.
Punch Brothers play "This Land Is Your Land"
Bluegrass band Punch Brothers was formed by mandolinist Chris Thile in 2006. In celebration of the Fourth of July, here's Punch Brothers performing their cover of Woody Guthrie's classic song, "This Land Is Your Land."
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce tie the knot
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were married at Madison Square Garden in New York City on Friday. Comedian Adam Sandler officiated the ceremony, a representative for Swift confirmed. Jo Ling Kent has more details.
7/4: CBS Saturday Morning
Americans are celebrating the Fourth of July and America's 250th birthday amid a sweltering heat wave. Plus, Taylor Swift's wedding, a Revolutionary War soldier is finally recognized, and former Liberty Island residents speak out.
Technology
More Technology
Technology
Why U.S. initially restricted Anthropic AI models
The Trump administration has lifted export restrictions on Anthropic's most advanced artificial intelligence models, Fable and Mythos, after weeks of negotiations over national security concerns. CNET Editor-in-Chief David Katzmaier joins to discuss.
White House lifted AI limits, Anthropic says
Tech giant Anthropic says that the federal government has now removed restrictions from its robust Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models. Axios reporter Madison Mills has more on artificial intelligence regulation.
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.
Sony to stop making physical discs for PlayStation starting in 2028
After January 2028, new games will be available exclusively in digital format from the PlayStation Store and at retailers, Sony said.
Consumers need protection from AI agents, lawmaker says
Sen. Mark Warner wants to create a federal registry of trusted AI agents and ensure autonomous bots operate like fiduciaries.
Science
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The American innovation that made millions of others possible
From the lightbulb to the airplane, to medical breakthroughs and the internet age, the past 250 years have been defined by America's intrepid intellect.
New White House UFO panel chair speaks out
The White House appointed former Harvard University astronomer Avi Loeb to lead its new panel on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, also known as UAPs and UFOs. Loeb shares his enthusiasm for his new role.
3 futurists predict what America will be like in the centuries ahead
From space to healthcare and artificial intelligence, what could the next 250 years of the United States look like?
NASA strives to save doomed telescope
NASA is in a race against time as the Swift Observatory telescope in orbit sinks closer to Earth. CBS News consultant William Harwood explains the $30 million salvage operation.
Fossil found in drawer turns out to be first dinosaur bone from Antarctica
Dinosaur fossils are rare to find in Antarctica because of the unforgiving ice caps. But millions of years ago, the region was populated by lush forests.
Crime
More Crime
Rep. Nancy Pelosi's husband suspected in Napa County hit-and-run
Paul Pelosi, the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, is suspected of crashing into a parked car and driving away from the scene Friday afternoon in Northern California.
Trump announces 6 new pardons
The four presidents carved into Mount Rushmore collectively issued over 1,100 pardons. President Trump, who is visiting there tonight, has outdone them all and is now adding more. Nancy Cordes reports.
Trump considering pardons and clemency
President Trump is considering pardons for a group of people convicted of emissions and clean-air-related violations and has discussed potential clemency for Sean "Diddy" Combs, according to sources familiar with his plans. CBS News' Nikole Killion reports.
Trump weighing Diddy clemency, sources say
President Trump is considering pardons for a slew of individuals, including potential clemency for disgraced music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs and some offenders with pollution-related convictions, sources say. CBS News' Olivia Rinaldi reports.
Olympian charged over alleged D.C. vandalism
U.S. Olympian David Hearn is facing a felony charge after being accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. CBS News senior Justice Department reporter Sarah Lynch has the details.
Space
More Space
Mission launched to rescue a falling space telescope
Katalyst Space's LINK spacecraft is designed to capture and boost NASA's Swift observatory back to a safe altitude.
NASA astronauts operate on space station's broken robot arm
The orbital surgery on the International Space Station returned the Canadian-built robot arm to full health after its "wrist" joint failed last month.
NASA prepares to launch rescue to save telescope from falling to Earth
The $30 million salvage operation gets underway as soon as this week with the planned launch of a robotic lifesaver.
Astronomers find 2 gigantic planets lighter than cotton candy
The featherweight pair — orbiting a star 1,110 light-years away — are the biggest exoplanets found to have less density than cotton candy.
Telescope snaps most detailed photo yet of Milky Way's heart
Euclid is on a mission to chart one-third of the sky in the hopes of shedding light on the enduring mysteries of dark matter and dark energy.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
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.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
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
Relay for America runs flag across U.S.
Relay for America ran the American flag from San Francisco to Washington, D.C., this week to commemorate America's 250th birthday. They did it nonstop for 20 days and nights for more than 3,000 miles on a mission of unity heading to the Fourth of July. Tony Dokoupil has the story.
Taylor and Travis say yes at MSG
The vows have been exchanged, the party is over, and slowly, details are emerging about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding. Lilia Luciano reports.
Are drones the new fireworks?
While many in the U.S. light fireworks on the Fourth of July, some towns are turning to drones as a cleaner, quieter alternative. Mark Strassmann gets a preview in Texas.
Trump casts political opponents as communists
On Saturday, President Trump is slated to speak on the National Mall, but on Friday, he gave a speech at Mount Rushmore that jumped from praise for America to a warning about what he called a threat to its future. Nikole Killion reports.
Travel troubles this 4th of July
It's hot and pricey out there in much of the U.S. this July Fourth weekend, but it's not stopping people from traveling. 72 million are expected to be on the move, a new record, with some potential new headaches. Kris Van Cleave has the details.