Up Next
Back to Show
American Masters
Amy Tan’s first job was writing astrology
Amy Tan’s first job was “making up” astrology for her friend’s astrology hotline business. She later wrote ad copy, direct mail, and became a technical writer for a telecommunications company: “all the subjects I had absolutely no interest in,” Tan recalls. She turned to writing fiction in the search for more meaningful work and learned a lot about herself in the process.
Support Provided By
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:55
Discover how celebrated cookbook writer Marcella Hazan shaped Italian cuisine in America.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:45
Discover Hannah Arendt, one of the most fearless political writers of modern times.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:51:14
Trace the life and music of “Society’s Child” folk icon and LGBTQ+ advocate Janis Ian.
1:36:59
Explore the career of cartoonist Art Spiegelman and his award-winning graphic novel Maus.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:42:06
Take an intimate look into the life and career of screen and stage icon Liza Minnelli.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:25
Learn about jazz artist Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own TV show.
Unlock with PBS Passport
52:55
Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.
1:23:57
Explore the story of writer Julia Alvarez, who blazed a trail for a generation of Latino authors.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:35
Explore the story of filmmaker Blake Edwards, known for his comedies like the "Pink Panther" series.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:40:39
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:43:31
Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
Unlock with PBS Passport
53:03
Discover the secrets behind Edward Hopper’s most iconic and enigmatic works.