There’s so much good journalism to learn from, but not enough time to read it all.
That’s why this ever-growing list is compiled as a resource for myself and for students and educators looking for insights on the craft, the practice, and the ethics of journalistic writing (and writing more broadly).
As much as possible, I will share stories here which are free to access, plus a few great journalism films.
Grappling with controversy
Journalists get it wrong, offend the public, and invite scrutiny on themselves. We should embrace the opportunity to talk about our failings and our disagreements with readers, as these pieces do.
- 10 years later — student journalists discuss retracted “Rolling Stone” article
- Shattered Glass: The story of a young journalist who fell from grace
Masterful writing
Not every article needs to be a work of beautiful prose, but these pieces are.
Investigative reporting
Great investigative pieces uncover corruption and backroom deals; reveal the dynamics of power and privilege; clear confusion from contentious public debates; and enlighten everyone who reads them. They are perhaps the most important kind of reporting that journalists can do. They also tend to be the hardest.
Editorial writing
The best editorials, like those below, express the passion and direct calls for change that journalists must restrain themselves in sharing through their reporting. An editorial is a journalist’s chance to plant their flag, sketch out what really matters, highlight nuance and directly advocate for the common good.
Follow-up reporting
Controversies may die down in the public imagination, but follow-ups often uncover new information or reveal how those in power do (or don’t) respond to emergencies. These articles answer the question: “Whatever happened to…?”
Alex Bruell 