Ranging from the Iraq conflict to political turmoil in Russia, from tragedies like the Jonesboro, Arkansas, school-yard shooting to the inspirational courage of survivors of the Oklahoma City bombing, Deadlines and Datelines offers readers a unique chance to share the insights of one of America's premier newsmen.

With his distinctive blend of frontline determination and a journalist's knack for a good story, Rather looks at the awesome struggles and everyday accomplishments he's witnessed at home and around the globe. With candor, compassion, and sometimes irreverence, Rather examines how such figures as Madeleine Albright, Bill Gates, and Fidel Castro shape world politics and culture.

On the culture beat, Rather offers personal interviews with Dolly Parton and Don Imus, insightful appreciations of Debbie Reynolds and Susan Lucci, and sometimes surprising tributes to Andrey Hepburn, Charles Kuralt, and Lawrence Welk.