The Vanishing Newspaper: Saving Journalism In The Information Age

Rating:
Summary: A "Must Read" For The Journalism Practitioner
Review: Philip Meyer has written an excellent book concerning the state of the American newspaper industry from the vantage point of spending a working lifetime within it. As an author and professor of journalism at one of the nation's most respected j-schools, Meyer offers a plethora of interesting facts and data concerning a societal shift away from the printed news page and the why's and how's of a slow (but not so certain) business demise. Is the American newspaper really sliding into the abyss? Will Wall Street abandon the printed news trade for more fertile economic ground? Should journalism students seek safer career havens?

Utilizing a wealth of contemporary studies and surveys, Meyer's The Vanishing Newspaper answers many questions and suggests that successful newspapers have positive influences in their respective communities through (among other factors) clear and accurate writing and social responsibility. By embracing new technologies - especially the ubiquitous Internet - newspapers can remain a respected source of information and viable business enterprise. Does accuracy and readability have a direct impact on circulation and ad revenue? What are the consequences of a newspaper's content? And just why are fewer people reading newspapers? Read and find out.

As an experienced newspaper publisher/managing editor/reporter, I highly recommend this insightful book for anyone involved in journalism - including students, teachers, writers, business managers and investors. No class, seminar, or casual conversation can supply the resources and suggestions found in The Vanishing Newspaper. Above all else, Meyer provides a realistic and positive outlook for those who love the profession and choose solutions over indifference.

Final word: This should be a mandatory read at every newspaper and j-school in America.