Joan Steinau Lester

Joan Steinau Lester, Ed.D. the award-winning NPR commentator, columnist, and author of three acclaimed books, is also a free-lance editor and writing coach. Click the Edit/Coach button for information on how to work with Dr. Lester on-line, in person, or by telephone.

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FIRE IN MY SOUL: ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON
Foreword by Coretta Scott King (Simon and Schuster). Tells the remarkable story of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton--impassioned civil rights activist, hard-driving legislator, and one of the most powerful women in U.S. history.

"A well-framed memoir, satisfyingly candid while also abrim with political theory...A gratifying biography." Kirkus Reviews

Dr. Lester and Congresswoman Norton traveled the U.S. discussing FIRE IN MY SOUL.Stops included New York City, where Gloria Steinem hosted a book party, and Washington, D.C. where Donna Brazile hosted another.

Terry Gross's "Fresh Air" on NPR featured FIRE IN MY SOUL, as did Tony Brown's Journal. A unique feature of the tour was that biographer and subject often appeared together, creating fascinating dialogue.


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"A rip-roaring political biography." Pat Holt, Holt Uncensored.
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TAKING CHARGE: EVERY WOMAN'S ACTION GUIDE TO PERSONAL, POLITICAL AND PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS (Conari Press, 1996) offers proven, effective strategies for every woman, from administrative assistant to CEO. Lester urges women to believe there are practical ways to confront even the most stubborn roadblocks. Real-world vignettes heighten the sense of the possible.

"Lester's tome of 'feminist coping strategies,' peppered with humorous, helpful anecdoes, provides a lively jump-start to goal-setting and attaining." Ms. Magazine
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Joan Steinau Lester's first book, THE FUTURE OF WHITE MEN AND OTHER DIVERSITY DILEMMAS (Conari Press, 1994; reprinted Authors Guild BackinPrint edition, 2000) provides a refreshing look at diversity. Every day we are confronted with new diversity issues--at the office, at home, in our neighborhoods, and with our children. Most of us are well intentioned; we try to keep abreast of rapidly evolving values and do our best not to offend. The rules are constantly changing, yet we maintain old stereotypes and modes of behavior. We want to change, but don't know how.

"In its chatty, no-nonsense way, puts all the taboos on the table...it's tricky territory, but in Lester's hands, the paths are clear and easily followed." San Francisco Chronicle

"A warm, inviting book by a diversity consultant that doesn't toe the political party lines." Orange County Register



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