Dan Rather is a respected journalist who used his writing skills to compose an autobiography titled Rather Outspoken: My Life in the News. Rather describes his entire life including his achievements and his failures. Readers feel a close connection with the journalist from his friendly yet informative tone. This book encompasses a perfect mixture of Dan's personal life and history. It is an inspiring read. Rather's beliefs of getting the truth out no matter the cost are perfectly conveyed within his book. Along with the book teaching history, it also includes tips from Rather related to journalism.
The autobiography is arranged in chapters that correlate with episodes within Rather's life. The book begins with intriguing the reader by introducing a hard story to cover in Rather's office. From here, the book continues to bounce between Rather's early life and his start in journalism. Though some chapters surround Rather's personal life, most are based upon huge moments in America's history. Many headings of Rather's book are after presidents and war. Readers are able to have Rather's personal insight on Presidents from Kennedy to Obama. They get his account of wars such as Afghanistan and Vietnam. Rather writes of scandals and how the media treats such topics. Rather, no matter what is always standing by his words and fighting to uncover secrets for the American people, "News is what people want to keep hidden. Everything else is publicity" (Page 255- Bill Moyers). On top of his success, Rather acknowledges the issues within his career. Rather is opinionated and strong but does not hold back when writing of his CBS News conflict.
This book is a great read for those who have a strong interest in the Journalism business. The book will surely prompt a hope for the truth to always prevail in support of America's media.