McCain's political resilience and ability to connect with voters in 2008

Bradlee's unwavering positivity and its lasting influence on their son Quinn

Nature versus nurture debate on gender difference and individual uniqueness

Personal growth toward deeper connections with his children

The 15th and 19th Amendments and the absence of a constitutional right to vote

Challenging biological explanations for gender differences and male dominance

Richard Nixon's coldness and inability to connect with the American people

The psychological draw of conflict journalism and managing fear and curiosity

Ransom negotiations and communication breakdown with Jim Foley's captors

Women's autonomy and checking personal motives when making choices

Barry Goldwater's influence on McCain's political philosophy and conservatism

Evolving sense of moral purpose and identity as a teacher and illuminator

Visiting Barry Goldwater in his final hours before his death

Path from Annapolis through flight school to helicopter search and rescue deployments

McCain's humor and resilience during the struggling 2008 presidential campaign

Criteria for selecting Life Magazine covers and their unpredictable sales

Parks' ease with people across social and racial settings

Becoming bat girl for brother's Little League team after being excluded from play

FDR's paternal leadership style traced to his father's influence and upbringing

Early awareness of Planned Parenthood as a healthcare resource for women

Organizing and executing the Newsweek sex discrimination press conference

Reaction to the Charlottesville violence and Trump's response

Arab world grievances and the roots of political extremism and terrorism

The ongoing struggle between America's better angels and worse instincts

Being the first Black writer in predominantly white writers' rooms

Father's connection to Richard Nixon's rise and Nixon's self-destruction