After early years of poverty with her mother and her grandmother, Oprah lived a more stable life with her father and stepmother; she excelled in her studies and read the news for a local radio station during her high school years. She was the first African American female news reporter to appear on a Nashville television station. Television work took her to Baltimore, then to Chicago where she became host of the OPRAH WINFREY SHOW. She laughed and cried with her guests and encouraged the true expression of feelings. Oprah seems to have endless energy whether she is introducing new books to her audience or signing the "Oprah Bill", legislation to protect children. Through her wealth and success, Oprah has raised and contributed vast amounts of funds for schools and homes in poor areas all over the world. Oprah states, "I want to open your hearts and see the world in a different way. I promise this will change your life for the better." This biography is appropriate for early readers. ( )