Finalist: Middle Passages: African American Journeys to Africa, 1787-2005 , by James T. Campbell (The Penguin Press )

For its creative and comprehensive probe into backdated stock options for business executives that triggered investigations, the ouster of top officials and widespread change in corporate America.

For its skillful and tenacious coverage of a family missing in the Oregon mountains, telling the tragic story both in print and online.

For their richly portrayed reports on the world's distressed oceans, telling the story in print and online, and stirring reaction among readers and officials.

For her intimate portrayal of a single mother and her young son as he loses his battle with cancer.