The Journalist and the Murderer
The Journalist and the Murderer
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1990
Book Brief
176
Book • Nonfiction
1980s
1990
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Journalist and the Murderer, Janet Malcolm explores the power dynamics between journalists and their subjects through the case of Jeffrey MacDonald, convicted of murdering his family, and Joe McGinniss, who wrote a damning book about him called Fatal Vision. Malcolm critiques journalism as distorting truth under the guise of objectivity, using this high-profile case to illustrate her arguments. The book includes discussions about murder and psychological manipulation.
Informative
Mysterious
Challenging
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
5,852 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Janet Malcolm's The Journalist and the Murderer garners praise for its incisive exploration of the ethical dilemmas in journalism. While some critics admire its thought-provoking narrative and sharp prose, others criticize it for a perceived bias against journalists. Nonetheless, its compelling examination of truth and betrayal remains impactful.
Who Should Read The Journalist and the Murderer?
Readers who appreciate The Journalist and the Murderer by Janet Malcolm are typically intrigued by ethical dilemmas in journalism, true crime narratives, and the complex relationship between reporter and subject. Fans of works like Truman Capote's In Cold Blood and Erik Larson's The Devil in the White City would find this book compelling.
5,852 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
176
Book • Nonfiction
1980s
1990
Adult
18+ years
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