What's Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, Its Cast and Crew, and Its Enduring Legacy ofService

What’s Next is a treasure trove for fans of "The West Wing" and anyone interested in the intersection of television, politics, and public service. This book is more than just a behind-the-scenes look at a beloved series; it’s a deep dive into the heart and soul of what made "The West Wing" a cultural phenomenon in the late 90s and early 2000s. Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack take readers on an intimate journey back to President Bartlet’s Oval Office, offering untold stories and fresh commentary that even the most devoted fans will find surprising and delightful. The book beautifully captures the camaraderie among the cast and crew, the dedication to creating a show that stood for decency and honor, and the lasting impact it has had on American culture and civic life. The insights into the show's creation and the relationships formed on set are both poignant and entertaining, providing a new perspective on TWW episodes. Moreover, the book’s exploration of the show’s legacy, especially its commitment to service and competent leadership, resonates deeply in today’s world. What’s Next is not just a book for "West Wing" aficionados—it’s for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling to inspire real change. Fitzgerald and McCormack have crafted a moving tribute to a show that continues to inspire hope and optimism, encouraging a service-oriented mindset. This book is a fitting celebration of the show's enduring legacy.

I did not watch The West Wing during its initial run on TV. However, I saw some of the final years' episodes and appreciated the intelligent writing and inspirational nature of the series. I purchased the DVD box set 7-8 years ago and watched it straight through after a depressing year teaching high school students at a challenging school. After watching the series, my faith in humanity was restored. I watched the series straight through again a couple of years ago when I had another bad year of teaching. See a pattern here? So, I purchased "What's Next?" and was first shocked by its heft. It's on the heavy side of 600 pages. Notwithstanding, I tore through the book in short order. While the book's structure takes a little getting used to, the weaving of character lines and inspirational and challenging stories is rather well done. What I discovered—beyond realizing that I now knew some of the famous lines of dialog in the series—was that I am technically a Wingnut, or big fan of the show itself. "What's Next?" is a reminiscence of the series, with behind-the-scenes information and storylines that explain the cast and crews' care and love of the show. As I am not in show business, I will take it on faith that such relationships are not common. What we get as readers is a booster shot of inspiration and reflection on how the government and the world could be run better, especially now, early in 2025. The book is well worth reading if you cared for the show or its message, and I strongly recommend that you become—or realize that you already are—a Wingnut!

This is a MUST read for all West Wing fans! Great whine the scenes stories and interviews with the cast by actual cast members! You will be wanting to re-watch Wedt Wing while reading the book!

If you love The West Wing, this book is truly a unique behind the scenes look at the making of the series as well as the cast & crew's commitment to both the seriously high quality of the show and their deep belief that public service is a duty. Told in a relaxed, friendly and clever style by the West Wing actresses, Mary McCormack & Melissa Fitzgerald, this book is an easy, engaging & enjoyable read. Highly recommended!

Great book about the behind-the-scenes doings for one of my all time favorite tv dramas. After both my husband and I read it, it inspired us to stream the 7 seasons again. The details in the book made watching it that much more enjoyable. As an added bonus, it was very inspiring to see how the stars of the show share such a passion in giving their time for causes they believe in.

Nice. Very interesting stories. Also has many color photos of the cast.

Wonderful book and to be narrated by athe authors is wonderful

I really enjoyed The West Wing and looked forward to listening to a backstage accounting of the show. For the most part, the book is insightful and entertaining. I think the biggest drawback is the amount of plugging the narrator's offer for social causes. It's like those segments of YouTube videos devoted to "sponsors". Content is going well and all of a sudden you get a sales pitch for something and the flow of the story is destroyed. Take away the ads for these organizations and the book is easily a 4 or 4.5 star title.