She was a trailblazer and every woman in the news business today owes her a debt of gratitude. Barbara Walters was a fascinating individual.
Here is where the problem comes in. I've read excerpts, and the book savages Harry Reasoner and Howard K. Smith-- two of the ABC News old guard. Maybe they deserve it, and the book does appear to be well-sourced. But, I just hate hammering people who aren't around to defend themselves.
Walters and Reasoner co-anchored what was then called the "ABC Evening News" in 1976, and it was a disaster. Reasoner didn't want her there, and let's face it, Barbara Walters wasn't a very good news anchor. She excelled in reporting and interviews, where she was later shifted at ABC.
Will I read "Rulebreaker?" There is a good chance. I have a growing stack of books I intend to devour, possibly when I have some time off this summer.
Just remember, some people aren't as awful as they might appear.
