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.

Since it's first announcement on AMAZON, many have been waiting more or less patiently for this book. SPOILER ALERT! It was worth the wait! Like a couple of other reviewers here, I am only in the beginning of reading this book, but, while many books of this size can take 60 to 90 pages to get the motors running, Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormadk have the wheels rolling within the first few page with a wonderful writing style that is altogether breezy, engaging, and informative all at once. If you are a chronic fan of THE WEST WING as I am (I'm on the 6th viewing of the first 4 Aaron Sorkin episodes) and are hesitant about buying the book, hesitate no longer: Buy It! The book engages from the Preface and Introduction forward. The writers thoroughly engage the reader with their natural, conversational style. They drape their arms over the reader's shoulders and guide her or him immediately behind the scenes as Martin Sheen, on the first day of shooting, goes around to introduce himself and exchange a few words with every extra and walk-on in that week's episode. In addition, tradition on other shows usually dictated that extras and walk-ons would eat different food at a different time in a different location that the rest of the cast. Sheen demanded that ALL participants would eat together with no segregation. Spoiler over! Enjoy the book!

For some reason never receive a dust cover with this. Is that usual? But the book is wonderful.

This book is great! It is engrossing and I am going to watch the series West Wing for the third time and go chapter by chapter. Such an enjoyable book! So well written. What a fun read!

The West Wing was one of the most insightful and intellectual series to hit the airwaves and this book takes you into the development process of casting and getting the series out for all to enjoy!!The writing is fun to read with the little inserts placed by the authors as if they were sitting with you telling the story.I highly recommend this book to all fans!!

If you were a fan of “The West Wing” as I was, you will love this book. Starts at the VERY beginning before the theme was even a firm idea. The background, behind the scenes stories and personal info on the cast are interesting and endearing. I always thought it was an exceptional series and this book proves it and explains why. Very well written by cast members Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack. Who knew they were authors as well? I’m not even finished with it yet and I’m already in love with this book! It’s totally engaging from the very beginning. You will come away with an even greater appreciation for this great series.

Quick read, interesting behind the scenes look at the casting and special episodes. Really appreciated the deep dive into the actors and what made the show so different than everything else on TV at the time. I'm now re-watching all seasons on Max and having the insider game info makes it even more fun to watch.

I was excited to order the book. I love The West Wing and the book sounds wonderful. It arrived and I happily opened it and looked at the photos. Then I opened to the first page. The print was terrible. It was a light gray that made reading almost impossible. I wasn't going to struggle attempting to read it. I'm returning it. I'm so disappointed. I'd read one review that said the print was gray, but I ignored it. I shouldn't have. I don't understand how the authors could let such a thing happen. I may order the Kindle edition since I do want to read it. But then, will the same problem occur?

5⭐️ as a “Wingnut” I took my time with this book and savoured every minute of it. I love The West Wing and the stories told in this book are heartfelt and amazing. Chapter 35 had me busting a gut but the chapter devoted to John Spencer had me in tears. This book will be revisited time and time again as I pull out the series to watch once more.

What a wonderful celebration of what is perhaps my favorite ever TV series that I still go back to watch.The behind the scenes stories, not only of the Production, Cast and Crew but of lasting friendships and Family are testament to the enduring appeal of this series. That everyone's commitment to truth and public service went far beyond the written script and performance makes this a true ensemble inspiration.Highly recommended to those seeking a positive outlook of what can, could and should be the voices of our better angels ✒️👏👏👏

For those fans of The West Wing a very good insight of the series.

Apparently there are photos in the US book version, there are none in the Kindle version I bought in Germany, which is a shame.

Like the show it's based on tells a wonderful storey! Great for Wingnuts! LOL