Raise Hell: The Life & Times of Molly Ivins 2019

RAISE HELL: The Life And Times of Molly Ivins chronicles the vibrant journey of the media maverick, Molly Ivins. Often likened to the great Mark Twain, Ivins stood as a formidable six-foot force from Texas, unflinchingly challenging the pervasive Good Old Boy corruption that riddled her surroundings. A best-selling author and a Pulitzer Prize-nominated journalist, she was also a beloved TV pundit, captivating a diverse audience of both “fans” and “frenemies.” With unyielding courage, she faced the powerful elite head-on, knowing well that speaking truth could come with significant consequences. Yet, she always added a generous serving of humor to her incisive reporting, and her wit resonated long after the ink dried.

At the pinnacle of her career, Molly’s columns reached the pages of 400 newspapers nationwide. She passionately criticized “Big Bidness” intertwined with governmental interests, famously stating, “Texas is the national laboratory for bad gub’ment.” Her prescient observations about the looming threats to the Bill of Rights reflect her deep understanding of political turmoil. Ivins poignantly remarked, “Polarizing people is a good way to win an election and a good way to wreck a country,” showcasing her insight into the mechanics of division within the nation.

Molly Ivins spoke with sincerity, embodying the voice of the unheard. She lovingly referred to her supporters as her “beloveds” and never wavered in her mission to “raise hell.” Her passing from breast cancer in 2007 left a void in journalism and advocacy, marking the loss of a fearless champion. In these trying times, the question lingers: who can possibly step into the size-12 shoes of Molly Ivins? The answer is clear—all of us. It’s time to RAISE HELL, just as Molly Ivins would have urged.

“The thing about democracy, beloveds, is that it is not neat, orderly, or quiet. It requires a certain relish for confusion.” - Molly Ivins