As a talk-show host for more than four decades, Larry King has encountered the most powerful and influential people in the world. Now, in "Future Talk," he converses with some of today's most provocative thinkers to get their perspectives on what's in store for us in days to come.

In this book, composed of original interviews never broadcast or published before, Larry King takes us on a tour of the future of politics, religion, the media, war and peace, money, work, travel, sports, and the arts-- all from the point of view of highly regarded individuals at the top of their fields.

King has conversations with: Stephen Jay Gould on the unprecedented challenges mankind faces; Marian Wright Edelman on the risks confronting families; Tim Russert on the media and political coverage; Doris Kearns Goodwin on the talents a future president will need to succeed; Gen. John Shalikashvili on military developments; Bill Gates on how computers and the Internet will continue to permeate our lives; Richard C. Holbrooke on the challenges of world diplomacy; C. Everett Koop on the increasingly volatile relationship between government and health care; Lester Thurow on world economics and how the United States needs to position itself; Albert Berkeley on how Wall Street will play less of a central role in investors' lives; Bob Costas on how sports will grow and change, as well as how they will be covered; Maya Angelou and Peter Max on the meanings and relevance of art; Isaac Mizrahi on what we'll be wearing; Stephen Cannell on what we'll be watching; and Robert Thurman and Elaine Pagels on spirituality and what we'll be doing to nourish our souls.These and many other interviews offer commentsthat are candid and opinionated, optimistic and pessimistic. They will engender reflection and surprise and ultimately provide insight into what tomorrow will bring.