The Universal Journalist

by David Randall, Jemma Crew (Contributor)

This is the only 'how to' book on journalism written by writers and editors who have operated at the top level in national news. It has long been the go-to book of advice for young reporters This edition includes a chapter on social media and is extensively updated throughout, with new content from Jemma Crew, an award-winning national news journalist. The book emphasises that good journalism must involve the acquisition of a range of skills that will empower trainees to operate in an industry where ownership, technology and information are constantly changing. This handbook includes tips and tricks learned from working at the very top of the business, and is an invaluable guide to the 'universals' of good journalistic practice for professional and trainee journalists worldwide.

Genres: Journalism

331 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2021

About the author

Librarian Note:
There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads database.
This profile may contain books from multiple authors of this name.

Reviews

[Nosemonkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Universal Journalist is a book I wish I'd had a copy of when I started out trying to write for a living some 25 years ago.

The latest edition - up to date enough to use the Covid pandemic as an example - is currently 50% off, and well worth picking up for anyone working in the media, not just journalists.

Much of it is made up of things we all should know - tips on research, questioning, the use of statistics and quotes, constructing good stories and more - but it never hurts to be reminded, especially when the book's written so engagingly and supported by such strong examples. And the chapter on where to find good stories is worth the price on its own.

I may have discovered this a quarter of a century late, but am glad I finally have - so thanks to my ex-colleague Pete Clifton (now Editor-in-Chief at the Press Association, so someone who knows his stuff), for the endorsement quote that convinced me to pick this up.

[Jake Holmes · Rating 4 out of 5]

David Randall provides a step by step guide to the dos and don’ts of journalism, with an over arching theme of due diligence. His book allows for aspiring journalists to be inspired by the field, whilst also dissuading morally questionable journalistic practices through industry examples.