My Life with Words

More than a memoir, not quite an autobiography, "My Life With Words" is a love letter to reading, writing, journalism and learning. At the same time, the author tells a complex story as she explores her decades of struggling with self-image and personal identity. Copious examples from her personal archives are supplemented by a reporter's curiosity for details about social and cultural history. Woven throughout the book are examples from her own reporting, editing and writing -- chosen to illuminate the people, places, schools, newspapers, books and more that have been central to her professional and personal lives. That context defines her journey from politically conservative high school editor to liberal college editor, to professional reporter and editor committed to journalism that makes a difference, to educator determined to have a positive impact on students and journalism. That evolution, from a girl of the Eisenhower '50s to proud feminist, encompasses more than a recounting of the author's history, however. As an advocate for individuals embracing the power in telling their own stories, she reflects on her life for lessons of value today. And she invites readers interested in journalism, history, sociology, women's studies, LGBTQ+ issues or writing to join this journey.