Customer Reviews

Spin Control

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Salon.com was right: this is a must read. Karem's essays hit the nail on the head. American Journalism in the 21st Century is indeed headed toward a National Inquirer mentality and finding the news that we need is becoming more and more difficult. Karem's articles from the front lines of the Gulf War and Waco are perfect examples of what actually happens and what is put on the air. They aren't even close to being the same.

His short story, "Just Before the Five Families War," is a hysterical example of the way news rooms operate; For lack of real news, or the ability to do their jobs correctly, the media constructs a mafia shooting war when two wiseguys shoot each other. Despite the real reason they shoot each other (I won't spoil it), the media runs with the war for the attention of viewers.

His other stories and essays are full of humor, wit, and irreverance, but they never lose focus: Journalism and politics are headed down a slippery path, and we need to do something about it.

A great example of what's wrong in the world today, but with a refreshing sense of humor and a keen eye for politics and the press. This is probably the most original book I've read in years and with short stories with titles like "Another Reason not to eat Spaghetti" and "Just before the Five Families War," You know Mr. Karem is right on target with a sharp political wit and great satiric barb. The best short story, by far is the one that shares its title with the title of the book. "Spin Control"...I mean, really who would ever think of Mary Matalin and James Carville arguing with God and Satan? Great, funny stuff. But on the serious side, the essay entitled "Journalism in the 21st Century" really hits the nail right on the head about what's wrong in this country with reporting these days. A Fantastic book that has to be read again and again.