The Book Report

Hot new autobiographies just in time for the holidays. And the bonus: all are read by the authors. Fascinating life stories, in their own words, and their own voices. And today, we speak with Margo Howard, a writer who embraced the "family business" (she's the daughter of Ann Landers AND the niece of "Dear Abby"). She has a new book out, "Eat, Drink Remarry."

A first look at gift suggestions for those hard-to-shop-for folks on your list. This week's Book Report focuses on new non-fiction titles that span diverse interests. Elaine speaks to Tom Shroder about his news-making new book, "Acid Test.”

A spotlight on books to gear you up for holiday entertaining and travel. Elaine gets an insider's look into the Food Network with author Alan Salkin, and receives fabulous trip advice from travel guru Pauline Frommer.

An investigation into UK mystery authors making waves "across the pond." Elaine speaks with Tana French, just out with a new installment of her Dublin Murder Squad series.

Elaine travels down the literary 405 for a look at LA Noir - with evocative characters tossed into a literary stew and seasoned with a strong sense of place. James Ellroy introduces us to Book 1 of his 2nd LA Quartet - "Perfidia.”

The special Halloween edition of the Book Report. Elaine brings you a great crop of smart, scary books, a task she takes....very gravely. Fun, fantasy and literary treats. Interview with Sarah Bartlett. Sarah Bartlett has been the astrologer of the London Evening Standard and the BBC Radio. Elaine speaks with her about a new book she's created for National Geographic, "A Guide to the World's Supernatural Places."

A show that proves that crime does pay...when you're looking for a book to keep you turning those pages. Elaine speaks with bestselling author Sandra Brown about her newest thriller , "Mean Streak.”

A spotlight on new titles that offer balanced factual accounts of people who have become cultural icons. Elaine speaks with Tom Tidwell, Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, about an icon who celebrates his 70th anniversary as a beloved figure in popular culture.

New titles that spotlight endearing characters who just don't fit in. These stories about misfits pack heart...and the punches that hit us squarely in our emotional center. Elaine speaks with Laura Moriarty, whose "Big Little Lies" is coming soon to the big screen.

A look at titles that uncover new facts and perspectives on American history - from the Civil War to the skirmishes between the Obamas and Clintons. Today's guest, John Dean, is one of Watergate's last surviving figures. We'll speak about his new book, "The Nixon Defense."