Ari Shapiro

As an admirer of Ari Shapiro's engaging journalism long before I was appointed news director of the NPR station in Western New York, I eagerly awaited the release of "The Best Strangers in the World." The book did not disappoint. Shapiro touched on a myriad of topics, penning a memoir that truly has something for every interest. Given Shapiro's wordsmithing skills, it's no surprise that many of the tales are masterfully spun. One section that discloses the author's problem with profuse sweating is downright hilarious. I do agree with some armchair reviewers who have suggested that a bit more care could have been taken in integrating the smorgasbord of subjects. The flow is a bit choppy in spots. But I quibble. Readers will glean many insights from Shapiro's stories "from a life spent listening."… (altro)