Kai Bird

Kai Bird is a distinguished American author and columnist, celebrated for his insightful works on pivotal historical events and figures. Born on September 2, 1951, in Eugene, Oregon, Bird's upbringing in various global locales, including Jerusalem, Beirut, and Mumbai, as a result of his father's role in the U.S. Foreign Service, deeply influenced his perspective and literary path. After receiving a B.A. in history from Carleton College and an M.S. in journalism from Northwestern University, Bird has carved a niche for himself with his compelling narratives. His works delve into the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as seen in "The Color of Truth," the intricacies of United States-Middle East political relations, and meticulously researched biographies, including the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer in "American Prometheus." This latter work earned him a Pulitzer Prize, highlighting his prowess in biographical writing.

Bird's literary career is marked by a passion for uncovering the nuanced truths of history and politics. His early experiences as a freelance journalist in Asia, alongside his wife, paved the way for his career in investigative writing. His notable works include "The Chairman" and "The Good Spy," the latter offering an in-depth look at the life of CIA officer Robert Ames and his role in the Middle East peace process. Bird's recent work, "The Outlier: The Unfinished Presidency of Jimmy Carter," continues his tradition of exploring complex figures and moments in history with depth and sensitivity. Bird currently serves as the Executive Director and Distinguished Lecturer at the CUNY Graduate Center's Leon Levy Center for Biography and resides in New York City, where he continues to contribute to our understanding of the political and historical landscapes that shape our world.

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