$9.99 on on Kindle, Nook, Apple Books, Kobo, Google PlayEmpire: William S. Paley and the Making of CBS by Lewis J. Paper (174,000 words, 31 illustrations)
A detailed exploration of how Bill Paley (1901-1990) took a fledgling radio network in 1927 and built it into one of the major media empires of the 20th century. Relying on primary source materials and interviews with past CBS employees (including legendary CBS President Frank Stanton and ousted CEO Tom Wyman), reporters and other observers (like David Halberstam), former CBS entertainers (like Jackie Gleason and George Burns), Paley’s former wife, and Paley himself, the author explains how Paley used his considerable family wealth, talent often developed on the rival NBC network, and business ingenuity in a single-minded effort to maneuver CBS into a powerhouse position — often without regard to the consequences to his employees and his own family. It is the story of a paradoxical man whose ultimate goal was to enjoy life to the fullest.
“Born [in 1901] in Chicago, the son of Russian-Jewish immigrants, William Paley first encountered broadcasting in its infancy while placing radio advertising for his father’s cigar company. In 1928, at 26, he bought a controlling interest in what soon became the Columbia Broadcasting System... Balanced, well researched and highly readable, the biography provides a portrait of an American businessman and his leadership of an enterprise that has transformed national life. Never an innovator, Paley built CBS out of shrewd bargaining, heavy investment and good timing... A charming, driven man of exquisite personal taste, he focused above all on programming, where quality was important but high ratings essential... This deserves a high place among the essential books on TV.” — Publishers Weekly
“... the most penetrating biographical look thus far at a complex man whose CBS boots are still firmly on.” — Washington Post
“Paper’s book is an anecdotal delight and a starter kit for understanding the American phenomenon that is television.” — Chicago Tribune
“... Paper’s mix of broadcast history and anecdotal style serves to flesh out a story of power, ambition, and influence.” — Duluth News-Tribune & Herald
“... straightforward and compelling...” — Los Angeles Times
“... a rather fascinating account of the CBS Chairman’s life and times.” — Booklist
“... you’ve gotta read the book...” — Toledo Blade
“... an extraordinary and first-rate study of the exercise of power.” — Virginian Pilot-Ledger Star
“Paper... writes with balance and good taste, as well as with a sharp ear for anecdote.” — Palm Beach Life