The Universal Journalist, 3rd edition
Review of Recommended Reading for Journalism Students
Sep 10, 2009
There are many schools of journalism thought, with their own unique cultures, attitudes and communication rules. Randall, however, argues that there are also some universal rules that will apply to the whole spectrum, and, if followed, will result in professional, clear, and consistent work.
Successful Attitudes for Journalists
Randall defines a journalist's job as primarily to question. He goes on to break down the important attitudes inherent to the trade that lead to great reporting.
These attitudes include;
- Keen news sense
- Passion for precision
- Determination to find out
- Never make assumptions
- Never be afraid to look stupid
- Be suspicious of all sources
- Being resourceful
- Leave your prejudices at home
- Realise you are part of a process
- Empathy with reader
- The will to win
- Sense of urgency
- Taking pleasure in beating the opposition
- Individuality
Tips and Advice to Avoid Common Pitfalls Faced by Reporters
Randall shares the wealth of his experience with readers to try and steer potential reporting professionals in the right direction and avoid some common pitfalls. In sharing his advice, he also introduces culture as well as a sampling of history important to the development of the journalism trade.
His writing style makes the reader feel like they are having a conversation with a cynical older brother who is attempting to provide guidance. He covers a wide variety of topics pertaining to the tasks associated with reporting, like judging news value, questioning, reporting numbers and statistics, and the how-to's of writing compelling introductions and interesting stories. At the same time, he contextualizes ethics and professional obligations with case studies and colorful examples.
To properly absorb all the tips and advice Randall offers may take years and seems overwhelming, but the organization of the book's concepts make this an excellent resource to keep handy for reference, and a thorough guide to further reading for professional development.
Final Thoughts
The most comforting passage is a promise Randall makes to journalism hopefuls. He vows that with dedication and hard work, story development will become easier and that essential thing without which no one can call themselves a writer will be found – voice.
"You will have found a natural style that suits you, is consistent, has rhythms and expressions recognisably yours and – the crucial test – if read aloud would sound like an only slightly tidied up version of your speech. It will be your own. Not put on, not affected, and not borrowed," he writes.
The Universal Journalist, 3rd edition was published by Pluto Press in 2007; ISBN-13-9780745326566. It has an accompanying website that provides more details on the book's contents.
For more J-school reading reviews, please see:
Compassion Fatigue, by Susan D. Moeller
Al-Jazeera, by El-Nawawy and Iskandar
The Global Journalist, by Philip Seib
Reporting War, edited by Zelizer and Allan
International News Reporting: Frontlines and Deadlines, edited by Owen and Purdey
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