Common Courage: Bill Wassmuth, Human Rights, and Small-Town Activism

By Andrea Vogt

From the publisher: A thoughtful book about the importance of speaking out on behalf of human rights, Common Courage grew out of the last public interviews with noted Northwest human rights activist and former Catholic priest Bill Wassmuth. Wassmuth’s leadership as a small-town activist opposing local neo-Nazis led to the bombing of his parish rectory in 1986. This act galvanized Northwest residents against the white supremacy movement. Wassmuth and his allies worked tirelessly to bring about needed hate crime legislation, and with help from Morris Dees and the Southern Poverty Law Center, a suit was filed that eventually bankrupted one racist group. Wassmuth died from Lou Gehrig's disease in 2002 but his work is carried on by resolute volunteer groups that continue to expose the workings of the white supremacy movement, locally and nationally.

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Edward R. Murrow and the Birth of Broadcast Journalism

By Bob Edwards

From the publisher: In Edward R. Murrow and the Birth of Broadcast Journalism, one of America's most celebrated broadcast journalists tells the dramatic and inspiring tale of how America's first and greatest newscaster changed the way we receive, understand, and respond to the news. [Formerly] NPR's Morning Edition host, Bob Edwards reveals how Murrow pioneered the concepts of radio reports from foreign correspondents, nightly news roundups, and live "you are there" broadcasts. He explains the impact of Murrow's London reports on public opinion, encouraging aid to Britain, and how the high standards that he lived by influenced an entire generation of broadcasters.

Murrow: His Life and Times

By Ann M. Sperber

From the publisher: Murrow is the biography of America's foremost broadcast journalist, Edward R. Murrow. At twenty-nine, he was the prototype of a species new to communications—an eyewitness to history with power to reach millions. His wartime radio reports from London rooftops brought the world into American homes for the first time. His legendary television documentary See It Now exposed us to the scandals and injustices within our own country. Friend of Presidents, conscience of the people, Murrow remained an enigma—idealistic, creative, self-destructive. In this portrait, based on twelve years of research, A. M. Sperber reveals the complexity and achievements of a man whose voice, intelligence, and honesty inspired a nation during its most profound and vulnerable times.

With Heroic Truth: The Life of Edward R. Murrow

By Norman H. Finkelstein

From the publisher: Edward R. Murrow set the standard for broadcast journalism. This book reveals why his legacy continues to inspire people today.