I am obviously a biased reviewer of this book, because I have a degree in journalism and worked in the newspaper business. This well-researched book covers every major period in U.S. history, from early colonial newsletters, which had to have approval from the British Crown before any article could be published, to today’s complete takeover of the field by digital media. I especially enjoyed the section devoted to media coverage of the Vietnam War where it as interesting to learn how much freedom reporters had in covering the conflict, so much so that the U.S. military later objected, accusing the news reports of turning public opinion against the war. I grew up during those years, with the widely-shared memory of Walter Cronkite starting off every newscast with the day’s American casualty numbers.

I also enjoyed the section on The Nixon/Watergate years, since that really kickstarted my own interest in politics and journalism. Heading into today’s non-stop news cycles, bombardments from all sides, charges of “fake” news (🙄), threats from certain politicians to restrict media coverage, the sad decline of print newspapers and magazines (as I sit here writing this review on my iPad), it makes me really sad, but hopeful that freedom of the press will prevail and prosper.

My only criticism of this book is it reads like a textbook (it was written by two college professors), and thus may be a bit dry for some readers. I, however, enjoyed it very much.

Thanks to NetGalley and Rowman & Littlefield Publishers for the ARC and the opportunity to review this book.

Before my work as a librarian I worked on the world of Journalism. I find it such a fascinating profession and how they get news into the hands of consumers. I found it to be such a fascinating tale on the world of media and I know Thomas that have worked in our industry or have an I treat in it will greatly enjoy this book