In ‘Born Lucky,’ Leland Vittert Recalls Growing from an Autistic Child into an Accomplished Globetrotting Journalist
Leland Vittert, known to many as a poised, globetrotting journalist and nightly news anchor, strips away his professional facade in his debut memoir, Born Lucky.
Far from a collection of war-zone anecdotes or White House reporting triumphs, this book is an intimate and often raw look at his lifelong journey navigating the world while on the autism spectrum — a challenge he was often forced to face without the benefit of a formal diagnosis during his early years. More than Vittert’s autobiography, however, Born Lucky functions as a profound tribute to the relentless, transformative dedication of his father, Mark Vittert.
The central narrative thread explores Vittert’s challenging childhood, where his social awkwardness, communication struggles, and inability to connect with peers made him a constant target for bullying and exclusion. He recounts heartbreaking moments, including a school principal bluntly informing his parents that “The people here think Leland is pretty weird. I guess I do, too.” It is here that the book establishes its core conflict and its greatest strength: the unwavering commitment of his father.
Mark Vittert refused to let his son be defined by labels or limitations. Recognizing that the world would not adapt to Leland, he quit his job and became Leland’s full-time “parent-coach,” implementing an intensive, painstaking training regimen designed to equip his son with the necessary tools to function in society. The memoir details these unconventional methods, from teaching basic concepts like eye contact and understanding humor, to even incorporating physical activities like push-ups to toughen Leland against bullies.
What makes Born Lucky such a resonant read is the unflinching honesty with which Vittert recounts his past pain — the sting of rejection, the loneliness of being misunderstood, and the crushing social pressures of middle and high school. Yet, the book consistently pivots away from self-pity, framing these difficulties as obstacles that were overcome through persistence and, crucially, his father’s love.
Vittert’s later career success—moving from a foreign correspondent covering global conflicts to a prominent national anchor — is presented not as a natural progression, but as a near-miraculous achievement forged by decades of intentional coaching and hard work. The book serves as a powerful testament to the idea that neurodivergence does not preclude success, provided there is an ecosystem of support, creativity, and unconditional love.
Ultimately, Born Lucky is a heartfelt love letter from a grateful son, written to thank the man who shaped his trajectory. It is highly recommended not just for families navigating autism or developmental challenges, but for any parent seeking inspiration on the transformative power of dedication. It is a stirring narrative that challenges societal norms around neurodiversity and offers a hopeful message: struggle doesn’t define you—how you respond to it does.