Wil Haygood

Even when books are successful, publishers and editors often remain anonymous. Mehta, who passed Monday, became well-known.

The comedian and activist was a raconteur of the civil rights movement, an interpreter of modern-day American politics and a one-time presidential candidate.

In his memoir, Saunders recounts his troubled childhood and efforts to maintain balance.

For 34 years, Eugene Allen carried White House trays with pride. Now there's even more reason to carry himself that way.