First-Person Journalism

<p>A first-of-its-kind guide for new media times this book provides practical step-by-step instructions for writing first-person features essays and digital content. </p><p>Combining journalism techniques with self-exploration and personal storytelling <em>First-Person Journalism </em>is designed<em> </em>to help writers to develop their personal voice and establish a narrative stance. The book introduces nine elements of first-person journalism—passion self-reporting stance observation attribution counterpoints time travel the mix and impact. Two introductory chapters define first-person journalism and its value in building trust with a public now skeptical of traditional news media. The nine practice chapters that follow each focus on one first-person element presenting a sequence of voice lessons with a culminating writing assignment such as a personal trend story or an open letter. Examples are drawn from diverse nonfiction writers and journalists including Ta-Nehisi Coates Joan Didion Helen Garner Alex Tizon and James Baldwin. Together the book provides a fresh look at the craft of nonfiction offering much-needed advice on writing with style authority and a unique point of view.</p><p>Written with a knowledge of the rapidly changing digital media environment <em>First-Person Journalism</em> is a key text for journalism and media students interested in personal nonfiction as well as for early-career nonfiction writers looking to develop this narrative form.</p>