“The Science Writers’ Investigative Reporting Handbook: A Beginner’s Guide to Investigations” is a practical, step-by-step guide that gives writers all the tools they’ll need to add accountability reporting to their stories. In a concise, easy-to-follow format, it lays out strategies and resources designed to empower beginners to launch science-based investigations. It draws on the experience and insights of teachers and practicing journalists alike to illuminate the fundamental principles of investigative reporting, offering tips on cultivating sources, choosing an investigation, working with data, organizing materials, interviewing subjects and bulletproofing stories to avoid legal and ethical pitfalls.
Real-world examples demonstrate the responsibility that comes with going beyond showing how science works to revealing how it is used and, too often, abused to the public’s detriment. And, at a time when the need for science-savvy reporters has arguably never been greater, “The Science Writers’ Investigative Reporting Handbook” makes a compelling case for why journalists should cover science with the same skepticism they would bring to any other human endeavor.
Praise for “The Science Writers’ Investigative Reporting Handbook”:
“A must-read guide to investigative reporting with a focus on a complex topic that needs more scrutiny. It’s all here in an easy-to-understand presentation by an investigative reporter with a passion for her craft.” Joe Bergantino, Co-founder and Executive Director Emeritus, New England Center for Investigative Reporting, Lecturer at Boston College
“In a concise 100-plus pages, Liza provides both warnings of how science writers need to avoid merely serving as a mouthpiece for scientists and clear examples of how journalists have married investigating reporting with coverage of science with big societal impact as a result. This veteran science and investigative journalist provides specific suggestions for the aspiring science writer to do the same.” Cheryl Phillips, Lorry I. Lokey Visiting Professor in Professional Journalism, Graduate Program in Journalism Stanford University
“If you’re going to read one book about science journalism this year, let it be this one. Liza Gross’s smart, detailed exploration of investigative journalism is not only a guide to good reporting, it’s a compelling treatise on why it matters so much.” Deborah Blum, Pulitzer Prize-winning science journalist, Director, Knight Science Journalism Program at MIT
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