Ladies Who Punch

Despite never actually seeing a full episode of The View, I thoroughly enjoyed this fun, well-researched look into one of the most iconic US talk shows.

The View was a bountiful source of workplace drama in the mid-2000s, splashed across gossip blogs in the form of Rosie vs Elisabeth screencaps and grainy YouTube videos of Hot Topic discussions. Details of Star Jones' lavish wedding, Sherri Shepherd thinking the Earth was flat (oh boy), and the revolving door of cohosts was like catnip for those who found themselves trawling through pages of Perez Hilton, Just Jared and Pink Is The New Blog. To hear the backstory on some of these moments was fascinating.

I would have liked some more details on the controversies Meghan McCain has been involved in since becoming a co-host two years ago (did you know her father was John McCain?), but the author's close relationship with her most likely prevented that. Also, it is unfortunate that Elisabeth Hasselbeck declined to participate to give her side on the Rosie controversy.

Aside from the drama, I also found the mechanics of getting a show syndicated really interesting and the work that Barbara Walters put in in the early days to ensure the show was a success.

The best way to read this book is to pause between each chapter for a YouTube break to watch the scenes which were just mentioned (Star Jones' departure and Barbara's subsequent damage control was a favourite).

For gossip fans and those interested in TV production, take a little time to enjoy the view and read this book.