The Journalist and the Murderer

by Janet Malcolm
The Journalist and the Murderer cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Investigative Journalism
Technical:
  • ID: 880
  • Added: 2025-09-21
  • Updated: 2025-09-21
  • ISBN: 9781847085641
  • Publisher: Granta Books
  • Published: 2011-12-01
  • Formats: 23
  • Reviews: 3
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99

Janet Malcolm's 'The Journalist and the Murderer' is a contemporary classic of reportage that blurs the lines between truth and deception. The book charts the complex and controversial relationship between Jeffrey MacDonald, a convicted murderer, and Joe McGinniss, the author of a book about the crime. Malcolm's work is lauded as one of Modern Libraries' '100 Best Works of Nonfiction' and is renowned for its sharp critique of journalistic ethics./n/nThe narrative unfolds as a legal battle between MacDonald and McGinniss, raising profound questions about the nature of truth, the responsibilities of journalists, and the moral ambiguities inherent in the pursuit of a story. Malcolm's incisive analysis and compelling storytelling make this a must-read for anyone interested in the darker side of journalism.

Reviews
Triumph of the Now · 2019-04-02
important 4.50

The book is considered an important read, with the reviewer recommending it heartily and expressing eagerness to read more by the author.

The reviewer from Triumph of the Now finds The Journalist and the Murderer to be an important and compelling read. They recommend it heartily and express a strong desire to explore more of Janet Malcolm's work. The book is praised for its insightful examination of journalistic ethics and its thoughtful exploration of the relationship between journalists and their subjects. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is evident, and they highlight its significance in the broader context of journalistic literature.

Quick quotes

    The Journalist and the Murderer is an important read, I'd recommend it heartily.

    I'll definitely read some more Janet Malcolm soon.

    The book is praised for its insightful examination of journalistic ethics.

The Guardian · Ian Jack · 2004-02-07
insightful 4.50

The book is praised as a small classic among journalists, particularly those who value thoughtful reflection. It is considered a must-read for its insightful examination of journalistic ethics.

Ian Jack highlights how The Journalist and the Murderer has become a small classic, especially among journalists who appreciate deeper reflection on their profession. The reviewer finds the book to be a must-read for its incisive look at the ethical dilemmas and complexities faced by journalists. The book's exploration of the relationship between journalists and their subjects is particularly noted for its relevance and thought-provoking nature. Jack's admiration for the work is evident, and he recommends it highly for its enduring insights.

Quick quotes

    Today it has become a small classic and one of the favourite books of many journalists, especially the more thoughtful ones.

    The book's examination of the relationship between journalists and their subjects is both fascinating and relevant.

    It is a must-read for anyone interested in the ethical dilemmas of journalism.

The New Yorker · 1989-03-13
important 4.00

The book is deemed important and its author is recognized for her significant contribution. The reviewer notes the widespread acclaim the book received.

The New Yorker reviewer acknowledges the widespread acclaim and importance of The Journalist and the Murderer, highlighting its impact on the literary and journalistic communities. The book is praised for its significant contribution to the discourse on journalism and ethics. The reviewer notes that the author, Janet Malcolm, is recognized for her insightful and thought-provoking work. The book's exploration of the complexities of journalistic practice is particularly noted for its relevance and depth.

Quick quotes

    It had got good reviews almost everywhere.

    It was deemed important, and, as its author, so was I.

    The book's exploration of the complexities of journalistic practice is particularly noted for its relevance and depth.

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