radio

"Finding My Voice" is as interesting, moving and uplifting as anything you'll read this or any year. Diane Rehm, the noted NPR radio host from Washington, DC, tells of her fascinating and often difficult life with amazing grace and openness. A daughter of Middle Eastern immigrants, Diane Rehm's childhood was marked by loneliness and occasional violence, yet she persevered and eventually raised a family. She unexpectedly en- tered broadcasting in her late thirties and joined

WAMU, Washington's public radio station, to deve- lop one of America's unique and thoughtful talk shows- now syndicated to many NPR stations. Nothing, however, prepared Diane for the ul- timate challenge- a mysterious condition that rendered her voice nearly mute. After years of therapy, she was diagnosed with spasmodic dyspho- nia- a rare neurological disorder affecting vocal cords. Through treatment, therapy and faith, she has returned to the air- and received much support from both prominent Washingtonians and her regular listeners. More than a "disease of the week" story, "Finding My Voice" is a moving and incredibly thoughtful look at a woman you'll be proud to know. You'll walk every step of the way with Diane as she tells her many stories- some painful, some joyous- and shares her many meaningful views on the media, on family, and on life. This is one of the few books that I feel will make a difference in my life. You won't forget Diane Rehm- I know I won't.

I read this book in about two or three days, and had a hard time putting it down. Diane's writing takes on the familiar warm and friendly tone of voice her listeners have grown to love. In this book she writes openly of her very personal struggle of coping with the stresses of her life. I was very moved at times, sometimes laughing and cheering out loud, my jaw dropped in awe and surprise at others, and my heart sank at some of the crushing blows she's been dealt, both from within and without. A highly recommended book for both fans of the Diane Rehm Show and/or anyone interested in a fascinating human story.

I too enjoy the Diane Rehm show, and was delighted to hear that she had written an autobiography. This is one classy woman. The information about her voice disorder was both distressing and fascinating. Very enjoyable read.