BREAKING NEWS

How does the news get told?

This comprehensive yet concise overview covers the evolution of journalism from pictographs on cave walls and town criers to print, broadcast, and internet news, including social media. Delisle examines myriad issues including accuracy, bias, the violence and harassment many journalists, especially women, face, the importance of a diverse newsroom, and ways in which the internet has forced media outlets to rethink their business models. Several capsule portraits of journalists, including Nellie Bly, who covered vital but often overlooked topics such as the mistreatment of mentally ill people or missing or murdered Indigenous women, demonstrate that curiosity and commitment are essential to good journalism. Delisle looks at ways that the industry has progressed, including the growth of solutions journalism. She touches on the use of artificial intelligence in reporting and data-gathering and examines new ideas for business models, such as nonprofit and collectively owned news organizations. The colorful, dynamic layout includes diverse representation in photos and illustrations. References to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and Canadian publications in addition to U.S. ones reflect a Canadian voice. Solid advice to aspiring reporters, a glossary, and strong resource recommendations complete the picture.

A welcome look at how journalists shine a light on the world.