The Best Books for Journalism Students

Journalism has always been a complicated field to tackle, with so many news to describe, so many stories to tell and so many opinions to express. No wonder that many bright and curious students choose journalism as their major, especially now when the media industry offers plentiful opportunities for them to introduce and develop some exciting new trends and techniques once they get their degrees. Below is the list of books any student studying journalist should read to get some background knowledge about the field they are going to join soon. The list is not inclusive and offers just some of the influential books to start with.

1. "Sound Reporting" by Jonathan Kern

This book presented by NPR reveals all the secrets of running a successful station or show to budding radio broadcasters and producers. Get a glimpse into the challenging work of professional broadcasters with "Sound Reporting" by Jonathan Kern.

2. "How the Other Half Lives" by Jacob Riis

For some historical reading opt for this quintessential photojournalism work. Here the author portrayed the poverty and struggle of immigrants in America during 1890s.

3. "Edward R. Murrow and the Birth of Broadcast Journalism" by Bob Edwards

In this book you will read about the life and career of radio and television journalism legend Edward R. Murrow. His biography and legacy will inspire many students pursuing the career of a journalist.

4. "Understanding Media" by Marshall McLuhan

This highly influential book published at a time when the mass media was just emerging focuses on the complex issues humanity reflects in its news and entertainment sources.

5. "Truth Needs No Ally" by Howard Chapnick

If you are interested in photojournalism this book is a real must have. It covers the history and ethics of documentary photography and provides some valuable practical advice on how to snapshot a truly great image.

6. "News Flash" by Bonnie Anderson

The renowned journalist Bonnie Anderson fearlessly describes the key problem with the television – money. Plagued by illegal hiring practices and ethnocentric coverage to political cheerleading American TV media is far from being perfect, trapped by bureaucracy and corporate greed.

7. "On Camera" by Nancy Reardon

In this book aspiring television journalists will read about the best-kept secrets and tips on how to sound and look professional while presenting on-camera for television as well as how to conduct the best possible interviews.

8. "Hello, Everybody! " by Anthony Rudel

Anthony Rudel tells a fascinating story of the time when radio started sounding in the nation's living room and forever changed American politics, journalism, and entertainment. American journalism students are sure to pick up some valuable tips and insights that might be helpful in their future career.

9. "Tulsa" by Larry Clark

Larry Clark documents a hedonistic youth culture in Middle America overwhelmed by self-destruction. Originally published in 1971 in a limited paperback version and then republished in 1983 as a limited hardcover edition this rare book used to be sold by book dealers for over a thousand dollars. Now this shocking work of photographic art and social history is available to the general public again.

10. "Manufacturing Consent" by Noam Chomsky and Edward S. Herman

Based on a series of case studies the book looks into the media's behavior and performance commenting upon contemporary propaganda. The authors show how the American government often manipulates the media and people watching it.
All these books and many others can be purchased on the cheap at Christian Book Distributors. Plus using Christian Book Distributors Coupon Codes customers will get extra discount applied to their online order.