The Universal Journalist - Tapa dura

David Randall shows there is a way to produce honest and thoughtful journalism. (Campaign for Press and Broadcasting Freedom)

The range of the book is impressive. I particularly liked the book for its sharp and gritty approach. (Granville Williams, Free Press)

Easily the best introduction to being a reporter I have come across. It provides solid, no-nonsense advice on the skills needed to do the job but is also willing to tackle the bigger issues every journalist must grapple with from time to time. Best of all, it has been written by a true newsman and his enthusiasm for the task in hand is evident on every page. (Paul Jones, course leader, Press Association Editorial Training)

One of the best books around about plying the trade. Packed with handy hints and anecdotes ... An essential, down-to-earth guide to what the job is all about. (Press Wise Bulletin)

The best book on journalism I have ever read. (Don Johnston, editorial consultant)

I like its common-sense practicality, its firm belief in honest reporting, and its commitment to quality... David Randall’s fluent style and his superb range of examples make this book a pleasure to read. Anyone who wants to be a journalist should go through it – again, and again, and again. (Val Williams, The Thomson Foundation)

I'm a reporter on a national paper and can honestly say that this is the best book on journalism that I've read. All aspiring journalists should read it. It also, crucially, contains information about the tactics reporters can use to get stories, which are all too often omitted from books about journalism. (Amazon Customer)

-- New updated edition of the world's leading handbook on journalism --

‘Easily the best introduction to being a reporter I have come across. It provides solid, no-nonsense advice on the skills needed to do the job. ... Best of all, it has been written by a true newsman and his enthusiasm for the task in hand is evident on every page.’ Paul Jones, course leader, Press Association Editorial Training

‘A pleasure to read. Anyone who wants to be a journalist should go through it – again, and again, and again.’ Val Williams, Press Division, The Thomson Foundation

'An essential, down-to-earth guide to what the job is all about.' Press Wise Bulletin

This is a new edition of the world's leading textbook on journalism. Translated into more than a dozen languages, David Randall's handbook is an invaluable guide to the ‘universals’ of good journalistic practice for professional and trainee journalists worldwide.

Irrespective of language or culture, good journalists share a common commitment to the search for truth, often in difficult circumstances. David Randall emphasises that good journalism isn't just about universal objectives: it must also involve the acquisition of a range of skills that will empower journalists to operate in an industry where ownership, technology and information is constantly changing. This acclaimed handbook challenges old attitudes, procedures and techniques of journalism where they are seen as cynical and sloppy.

This fully updated edition contains scores of new anecdotes and examples, drawing on the author's own experience as a national newspaper reporter and columnist, plus a completely new chapter on 'How To Be A Great Reporter'.