NPR--The First Forty Years

Starred review from December 20, 2010
Representing the best of NPR storytelling and reporting, this time capsule of public radio's first 40 years revisits broadcasting highlights and memorable moments from recent history, political events to fashion trends. Including clips and introductions from the likes of Susan Stamberg, Noah Adams, Renee Montagne, and Guy Raz, the collection is both a history of NPR—listeners will discern the changing broadcast quality over the years—and a de facto world history with stories from the Vietnam protests to a blow-by-blow of September 11. Among the high points are Scott Simon's driving lesson with Car Talk's Click and Clack, listener reactions to President Nixon's resignation, Nina Totenberg breaking the Clarence Thomas sexual harassment story, Chris Rock reflecting on his career and the racism he's endured, and This American Life's groundbreaking and prescient reporting on the financial crisis, "The Giant Pool of Money." A must for NPR fans and history lovers. A Chronicle hardcover.