Helen Thomas

Easton Press Helen Thomas books

Front Row at The White House - signed first edition - 1999
Listen Up, Mr. President - signed first edition - 2010 (co-authored with Craig Crawford)

 

Journalist Helen Thomas

Helen Thomas, born on August 4, 1920, in Winchester, Kentucky, was a pioneering journalist whose relentless pursuit of truth and unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity made her a towering figure in American media. Raised in Detroit, Michigan, Thomas developed a passion for journalism at a young age. After graduating from Wayne University (now Wayne State University) with a degree in English, she began her career in journalism as a copygirl for the Washington Daily News in 1942. Her determination and talent quickly propelled her up the ranks, and she soon became a reporter, covering topics ranging from women's issues to federal agencies. In 1960, Thomas joined United Press International (UPI), where she would spend the majority of her illustrious career. As a White House correspondent for UPI, she became known for her incisive questioning and tenacious pursuit of the truth. Thomas covered every president from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama, earning a reputation as one of the most respected journalists in Washington, D.C.

Throughout her career, Thomas broke barriers and shattered stereotypes as one of the first women to cover the White House. Her presence in the press corps paved the way for future generations of female journalists and challenged the male-dominated culture of political reporting. Thomas's reporting was characterized by her fearlessness and commitment to holding those in power accountable. She asked tough questions and never shied away from challenging authority, earning both praise and criticism for her outspokenness. In 2000, Thomas left UPI and joined Hearst Newspapers as a syndicated columnist, where she continued to write and comment on political affairs until her retirement in 2010. Even in retirement, Thomas remained a vocal advocate for press freedom and a staunch defender of the First Amendment.

Despite her groundbreaking achievements and contributions to journalism, Thomas's career was not without controversy. In 2010, she made controversial remarks about Israel that led to her resignation from her position as a columnist. Helen Thomas passed away on July 20, 2013, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of journalistic excellence and a profound impact on the field of journalism. Her commitment to truth, integrity, and accountability continues to inspire journalists around the world, serving as a reminder of the essential role that a free press plays in a democratic society.

 

Front Row at the White House: My Life and Times

Front Row at the White House is a captivating memoir. Born out of a remarkable career spanning seven decades, the book offers readers an intimate glimpse into the inner workings of American politics and the life of one of the most influential figures in journalism. Helen Thomas was a trailblazer, breaking barriers and reshaping the landscape of political reporting. Her memoir chronicles her extraordinary journey from a young girl growing up in Detroit to becoming the first female member of the White House press corps and a revered figure in the field of journalism.

In her memoir, Thomas reflects on her early years as a cub reporter, navigating the challenges of a male-dominated profession and carving out her place in the competitive world of Washington, D.C. journalism. With wit, candor, and insight, she recounts her experiences covering every president from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama, offering behind-the-scenes anecdotes and revealing insights into the personalities and politics of the era. Front Row at the White House is more than just a chronicle of Thomas's illustrious career; it is also a testament to her unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and the pursuit of truth. Throughout the book, Thomas grapples with the complexities of her profession, grappling with the ethical dilemmas and moral responsibilities that come with reporting on the highest levels of government. But perhaps most importantly, Front Row at the White House is a celebration of the power of the press and the vital role that journalists play in a democracy. Thomas's memoir serves as a rallying cry for the importance of a free and independent press, reminding readers of the essential role that journalists play in holding those in power accountable and safeguarding the principles of democracy.

Published in 1999, Front Row at the White House: My Life and Times remains a timeless and inspiring account of one woman's journey through the corridors of power and her unyielding dedication to the principles of truth, integrity, and justice. Helen Thomas's memoir continues to resonate with readers today, offering a poignant reminder of the enduring power of journalism to shape the course of history.

Listen Up, Mr. President: Everything You Always Wanted Your President to Know and Do

Published in 2009, Listen Up, Mr. President stands as a compelling testament to the incisive intellect and unwavering commitment to truth of the renowned journalist, Helen Thomas. In this insightful work, Thomas offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex dynamics between the American presidency and the press, providing valuable insights into the responsibilities, challenges, and expectations of the nation's highest office.

Throughout her distinguished career, Helen Thomas distinguished herself as a fearless advocate for journalistic integrity and a relentless seeker of truth. Drawing on her unparalleled experience as a White House correspondent spanning over six decades, Thomas delves into the inner workings of the presidency, shedding light on the unique pressures faced by those who occupy the Oval Office and the critical role that the press plays in holding them accountable.

In Listen Up, Mr. President, Thomas delivers a compelling call to action for the nation's leaders, urging them to embrace transparency, accountability, and honesty in their governance. Through a series of insightful observations and probing questions, she challenges presidents past, present, and future to rise to the occasion and uphold the highest standards of integrity and moral leadership. But Thomas's work is not merely a critique of the presidency; it is also a celebration of the enduring resilience of American democracy and the vital importance of a free and independent press. With her trademark wit, wisdom, and candor, she offers readers a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the White House press corps, sharing anecdotes and insights that illuminate the often tumultuous relationship between the presidency and the media.

Listen Up, Mr. President: Everything You Always Wanted Your President to Know and Do remains as relevant and timely as ever. In an era marked by unprecedented political polarization and growing distrust in institutions, Thomas's work serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of journalism to hold those in power accountable and safeguard the principles of democracy. Through her insightful analysis and impassioned advocacy, Helen Thomas leaves an indelible mark on the national discourse, challenging presidents and citizens alike to aspire to the highest ideals of leadership, integrity, and public service. Her words resonate with a sense of urgency and purpose, inspiring readers to listen up, take heed, and demand nothing less than the best from their leaders.

Helen Thomas quotes

"We don't go into journalism to be popular. It is our job to seek the truth and put constant pressure on our leaders until we get answers."
"We are the watchdogs for the people, and we have a responsibility to find and tell the truth, and not just what the people want to hear."
"I think [the White House press corps] should always challenge the President. It doesn't matter whether the President is Republican or Democrat."
"As a member of the press, I was in the business of asking tough questions and not letting up until I got an answer."
"The role of the press is to question those in power, to challenge authority, and to hold them accountable."
"The First Amendment exists for a reason: to protect the freedom of the press and ensure that the people are informed about what their government is doing."
"The truth is the best disinfectant. Sunlight is the best disinfectant."
"The best journalists are the ones who are not afraid to speak truth to power, even if it means facing criticism or backlash."
"The press is not the enemy of the people. The press is the people's advocate, shining a light on government actions and holding those in power accountable."
"Journalism is not just a job; it is a calling. It is a responsibility to seek the truth, even when it is uncomfortable or inconvenient."