Structured to support any introductory textbook, this compact reader covers a wide variety of topics. Offering practical advice on essential skills and encouraging students to explore more advanced topics like journalistic ethics, media bias, and the role of journalists in fostering community, Shop Talk and War Storiesgives students a slice-of-life glimpse into how journalism is practiced in the newsrooms of today.

Informative insights straight from the journalists and editors themselves. Shop Talk and War Stories consists entirely of writings from journalists -- both newcomers and legends in the field. Through first person narratives, informal advice articles, book excerpts and interviews, journalists and editors introduce students to journalism as it is practiced and lived. Shop Talkoffers students candid advice, behind-the-scenes information, and inspiring stories from legendary reporters, enriched by fresh accounts from today's journalists.

Practical advice on the essential skills of journalism. Shop Talk and War Storiesgives students straight advice on the nuts and bolts skills of the job -- reporting, interviewing, and writing. From Claudia Dreifus's advice on the importance of pre-interview preparations to Woodward and Bernstein's account of how to soft-touch uncooperative sources, these readings give the students tips and tricks they can use.

Special attention to journalism ethics and community issues. Does being a good journalist mean more than just being an effective one? Shop Talk and War Storiesuses first person accounts of ethical crises to help students explore not only the question of on-the-job ethics, but also the role of journalists in the larger community. Chapter 11, "Ethical Journalism," includes Ben Bradlee's tale of how the Washington Postconfronted Janet Cooke's Pulitzer Prize winning hoax "Jimmy's World" and more.