Living in Montclair, NJ, which is 12 miles from NY City, I have many opportunities to meet performers, journalists, artists, musicians, and, yes, even writers.  A few weeks ago, I attended a seminar hosted by the Adult School of Montclair, presenting Deborah Davis, the writer chosen to document Oprah’s last show and to write the text for the beautiful book.

Though I was not able to see more than a few of Oprah’s shows because of my work schedule, I did follow her rise to stardom through osmosis, and, of course, like the rest of America, listened intently when she began her book club.  I attended Ms. Davis’ session more to hear about the writing process … and I never turn down an opportunity to obtain an autographed book.

Deborah was bound by the pact one agrees to when granted entry into Oprah’s world–nothing could be told of her meetings or interactions with the great lady.  But this did not detract from the presentation and, in fact, may have added to it. Learning about the research team, the tight time schedule, how the photos were selected, what the requirements were to write each chapter, and how Deborah had to immerse herself in watching hours and hours of Oprah videos, was entertaining and fascinating. However, the book is not one you just read, you experience it. The cover photo is extraordinary, the paper is rich and textured, and the interviews and photos are (or will be) historical.  Oprah, regardless of what you may think of her, is a revolution.  She may be in a holding pattern right now trying to find her next foothold, but when she finds it, the world will change–again.