Front Row at the White House: My Life and Times

The journalist describes her many years of reporting on the White House, exploring the changing relationship between the presidency and the press.

Journalist and "Dean of the White House Press Corps" Helen Thomas has reported on the presidency from John F. Kennedy to Bill Clinton. Her approach has always been direct, and her reputation for being relentless has been well respected by all. Helen Thomas narrates the introduction, and her vocal qualities paint the picture of a feisty yet moral journalist well aware that her job to uncover the truth is a responsibility to the American people and to the world. Judith Cummings narrates the balance of the book adequately but lacks Thomas's spunk and enthusiasm. However, in the midst of the political adventures reported here, Cummings's weaknesses eventually go unnoticed. B.J.P. (c) AudioFile, Portland, Maine