Being There - by Lori Matsukawa (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

In the brisk, evocative prose of a seasoned television journalist, Lori Matsukawa describes her astonishing journey from a humble childhood in Hawaii to a stellar career as one of the nation's best local news anchors. With the sensibilities and skills she acquired from her close-knit extended family and the dynamic ethnic mix of the islands, Matsukawa was prepared for every opportunity that came her way. But she makes it clear that, for her, it was never just about a career, it was about a community. She became a voice for the Japanese Americans who suffered past injustices and a pathfinder for the aspiring Asian American journalists trying to break into the news business. Being There is a story about an American Dream that Lori Matsukawa has tried to share with everyone.

-- David Horsey, syndicated political cartoonist and two-time recipient of the Pulitzer Prize

Review Quotes

Lori is an icon. She won't think so, because she's kind and humble, but she is. This book allows us to see the person behind the very public figure we all know and love, and when you read it, when you understand her journey, one of race and identity and service to her community, you'll love her even more.

-- Jamie Ford, New York Times bestselling author of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

Lori Matsukawa's memoir is a delightful read. Chronicling her improbable rise from an obscure childhood in rural Hawaii to her station as a world-class journalist with access to the corridors of power in Washington State and beyond, it is chock full of engaging and inspiring anecdotes, each of which sheds much needed light on the struggles of women and particularly women of color to win recognition and respect in the field of television journalism.

-- Daniel James Brown, bestselling author of Boys in the Boat and Facing the Mountain