Stepping away from her iconic narratives of historical giants, Doris Kearns Goodwin, the celebrated historian, is etching a profoundly personal masterpiece at 80.
She’s started a heartfelt journey, exploring a special story that goes beyond normal. She’s putting together her life and love story with her late husband, Richard Goodwin.
Kearns Goodwin’s Next Book is a Tale Close to Home
Instead of chronicling the lives and times of her “guys” – Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, Lyndon Johnson, and John F. Kennedy, she is writing a memoir about her life and love story with her late husband, Richard Goodwin.
The “First Lady” expects to publish the book An Unfinished Love Story in 2024.
To her, writing the memoir has been a cathartic and emotional process. She hopes the literary work inspires others to cherish their relationships and appreciate life’s preciousness.
The Book is In Memory of Richard Goodwin
In an interview with The Associated Press, Kearns Goodwin admitted that the memoir is a way of honoring her husband, who died in 2018 aged 86.
Richard Goodwin served as speechwriter and adviser to Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. He was also a key figure in the 1960s civil rights and anti-war movements.
“I wanted to write this book because I wanted to keep him alive in my mind,” she said. “I wanted to share with other people the extraordinary life that we had together, the joys and the sorrows, the triumphs and the tragedies, the humor and the sadness.”
From Pen to Podium
Beyond the written word, Doris remains a captivating orator, gracing stages as a frequent public speaker.
Her contributions span various media outlets, adding her insightful voice to contemporary discussions and breathing life into historical narratives.
Doris Kearns Goodwin uses her speeches to discuss how we can learn from history to deal with today’s challenges. She’s lined up some exciting events for next year where she’ll share these insights.
From conferences to university talks, she’ll discuss how the past can guide us through turbulent times and help today’s leaders make better decisions.
Her goal is to inspire and educate by showing the relevance of history in shaping a brighter future.
Dr. Goodwin’s Engagements and Influence
Dr. Goodwin frequently joins the discussions on PBS’ “The Newshour with Jim Lehrer” and offers analysis on NBC-TV.
Her expertise isn’t just limited to history books—she’s actively involved in various esteemed organizations like the Harvard Board of Overseers, the Society of American Historians, and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Her involvement in these influential groups showcases her dedication to shaping and contributing to academic and intellectual discourse beyond her acclaimed writing and media appearances.
Doris Has a Life Out Of Work
Doris Kearns Goodwin isn’t just known for her writing and TV appearances.
She’s also a regular at Quins, a social club where she joins a group of friends to chat about important stuff. Well, mainly President Biden’s chances for reelection and what’s happening in the entertainment world.
It’s a cozy and lively gathering where they enjoy good food, company, and lively discussions.
It’s a peek into Doris’s life outside her work, showing she enjoys relaxed moments with friends like anyone else.
