Breaking the Sound Barrier

September 29, 2009
In this collection of her best online columns, award-winning investigative journalist Goodman showcases a broad knowledge of history and a carefully considered point-of-view, left-leaning but driven by principles rather than party affiliation. A talk radio host and columnist, Goodman takes an anti-establishment stance that eschews experts and sound bites to get to the center of highly charged stories: illegal detention of journalists at the 2008 Republican National Convention, murder by the thousands in East Timor, silver-tongued politicians and executives caught in lies, and more. Fans may be disappointed that no new material has been included, but those unfamiliar with Goodman's work will discover a bold voice that refuses to mince words regardless of the topic or target, along with a wealth of behind-the-headlines reporting.

October 1, 2009
On more than 750 radio and television stations, in syndicated newspaper columns, and on the Internet, Goodmans daily, independent Democracy Now! programming has gained a well-deserved international reputation for its fiercely objective brand of investigative journalism, one that stands in stark contrast to the often compromised coverage offered by the corporate-sponsored, so-called mainstream media. In this diverse collection of sharp, vivid reports, Goodman trains her critically discerning eye on the vast array of key topics demanding both national and international attention. From global warming to grassroots activism, from electoral politics to health care reform, from the past administration to the present, Goodman brings a laser-like focus not only to headline issues but to little-known backstories as well, exposing their essential points and counterpoints and constantly questioning the status quo. Eschewing sound bites for substance and PR spin for powerhouse reportage, Goodman is a true pioneer and essential advocate for the power and necessity of an independent press.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)