media and the law

An ideal addition to any journalist or author's Writer Reference shelf, The Interviewer's Handbook: A Guerrilla Guide by John Brady is a compendium of instruction into the diverse tactics and techniques of acquiring and conducting interviews by journalists and writers. Enhanced with lively anecdotes, practical advice, conventional (and unconventional!) methods for approaching varied situations, dealing with "off-the-record" issues, securing colorful quotes, even what to do when assigned to get interviews with entertainment celebrities, business leaders, and influential politicians. Of special interest are the lists of ready-to-use questions for an interview.

While of us do not interview celebs livelihood-wise, we all need to extricate important info from others. Whether in commerce, aerospace, security, health care, or the "Plain Jane social scene", communication skills are vital to success. Interviewing is the art form of asking (artfully constructed questions)and active listening is an opportunity to extricate "more". Seasoned journalist/author Brady shares trade secrets. "The Art of Listening" reminds us aggressive listening can mean success or failure. Quoting John Travolta--Brady reminds us that "people are interesting...you just need to ask the right questions" is a real thought pearl.

For the socially shy- Chapter 22 "Best Questions" has goodies for cocktail chit-chat stuff. This book, sprinkled with wit, humor, insight, could easily change your life. Highly recommended. Easily digestible.

Miriam Erick/ Boston
Author: "Managing Morning Sickess" (c) 2004 (Bull Pub. Boulder, Co