Deaths on February 10

Jeffrey Zaslow, American journalist and author (b. 1958)

Jeffrey Lloyd Zaslow (October 6, 1958 – February 10, 2012) was a highly respected American author and journalist, widely celebrated for his unique ability to capture and convey deeply human stories. Throughout his impactful career, Zaslow served as a prominent columnist for The Wall Street Journal, earning significant recognition both as a prolific co-author of several highly acclaimed books and as the sole author of numerous other best-selling works.

Zaslow's distinctive journalistic approach blended meticulous research with an empathetic narrative style, making complex emotions and profound life lessons accessible to a broad audience. His writing often explored themes of courage, resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of meaning, resonating deeply with readers across various demographics.

A Distinguished Career at The Wall Street Journal

For many years, Jeffrey Zaslow was a cherished voice at The Wall Street Journal. He was best known for his "Moving On" column, which evolved from his earlier "Work & Family" column. In "Moving On," Zaslow masterfully explored the intricate tapestry of everyday life, delving into personal challenges, professional transitions, intergenerational relationships, and moments of significant change that define the human experience. His columns were celebrated for their insightful observations, heartwarming anecdotes, and the practical wisdom they offered, making them a staple for readers seeking both inspiration and practical guidance.

Collaborative Literary Successes

Jeffrey Zaslow possessed a remarkable talent for helping others articulate their profound personal stories, which led to his involvement in several extraordinarily successful co-authored books. These collaborations not only topped bestseller lists but also left an indelible mark on contemporary literature:

• The Last Lecture (with Randy Pausch)

  Perhaps his most widely recognized collaboration was The Last Lecture (2008), co-authored with Carnegie Mellon Professor Randy Pausch. This book originated from an inspiring and poignant lecture Pausch delivered shortly after being diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. Zaslow played a crucial role in shaping Pausch's reflections on life lessons, overcoming obstacles, and achieving childhood dreams into a compelling narrative. The book became a global phenomenon, selling millions of copies, translated into over 40 languages, and spending more than 100 weeks on The New York Times bestseller list. It is widely regarded as a modern classic on living a meaningful life.

• Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters (with Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger)

  Zaslow also partnered with Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger to write Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters (2009). This memoir detailed Captain Sullenberger's extraordinary life and the events leading up to the "Miracle on the Hudson," where he successfully landed US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River, saving all 155 lives aboard. Zaslow's expertise helped craft a narrative that went beyond the heroic act, exploring the meticulous training, ethical considerations, and personal philosophy that underpinned Sullenberger's actions.

• Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope (with Gabrielle Giffords and Mark Kelly)

  In 2011, Zaslow collaborated with former U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, astronaut Mark Kelly, on Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope. This powerful memoir chronicled Giffords' remarkable recovery journey after being critically wounded in an assassination attempt in 2011. Zaslow's sensitive and skillful storytelling brought to life the challenges, triumphs, and unwavering spirit of a woman determined to reclaim her life, offering an intimate look at resilience in the face of immense adversity.

Notable Works as a Sole Author

Beyond his celebrated collaborations, Jeffrey Zaslow was also the sole author of a number of critically acclaimed and commercially successful books, further solidifying his reputation as a gifted storyteller:

• The Girls from Ames: A Story of Women & a 40-Year Friendship

  The Girls from Ames (2009) stands out as one of his most beloved solo works. This non-fiction narrative explored the enduring friendship among eleven women who grew up together in Ames, Iowa, and how their bonds sustained them through four decades of life's challenges and joys. The book was a New York Times bestseller, lauded for its heartwarming depiction of sisterhood, loyalty, and the power of lasting connections.

• The Magic Room: A Story About the Love We Wish for Our Daughters

  In The Magic Room (2011), Zaslow turned his empathetic gaze to the universal hopes and dreams parents hold for their children, particularly their daughters, as they embark on marriage. Set in a small Michigan bridal shop, the book beautifully captured the emotional significance of wedding dress shopping as a metaphor for family bonds and the future, weaving together stories of love, anticipation, and memory.

• Once Is Enough: A True Story of Love and Friendship

  Based on one of his most popular Wall Street Journal columns, Once Is Enough (2010) tells the touching story of two lifelong friends navigating the complexities of their bond, illustrating Zaslow's talent for expanding a concise journalistic piece into a full-length, emotionally resonant narrative about human relationships.

Jeffrey Zaslow's Enduring Legacy

Jeffrey Zaslow's contributions to journalism and literature are marked by his profound insight into the human condition, his ability to craft compelling narratives from real-life experiences, and his unwavering commitment to sharing stories that inspire and connect. His work consistently offered readers perspectives on courage, resilience, and the power of human connection. Through his columns and books, Zaslow created a body of work that continues to resonate, reminding us of the extraordinary within the ordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jeffrey Zaslow

When was Jeffrey Zaslow born and when did he pass away?

Jeffrey Lloyd Zaslow was born on October 6, 1958, and he passed away on February 10, 2012, at the age of 53.

What was Jeffrey Zaslow's primary role at The Wall Street Journal?

At The Wall Street Journal, Jeffrey Zaslow was a widely recognized columnist, most notably for his "Moving On" column, which focused on human interest stories, life transitions, and relationships.

What are some of the most famous books Jeffrey Zaslow co-authored?

He famously co-authored The Last Lecture with Randy Pausch, Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters with Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, and Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope with Gabrielle Giffords and Mark Kelly.

Did Jeffrey Zaslow write any books by himself?

Yes, Jeffrey Zaslow was also the sole author of several bestselling books, including The Girls from Ames: A Story of Women & a 40-Year Friendship, The Magic Room: A Story About the Love We Wish for Our Daughters, and Once Is Enough: A True Story of Love and Friendship.

What themes did Jeffrey Zaslow typically explore in his writing?

Zaslow's writing consistently explored themes of human connection, resilience, the power of friendship, navigating life's transitions, and finding meaning in everyday experiences. His stories often aimed to inspire and offer profound insights into the human condition.