Gr 8 Up--Sensible advice is given on how to get started in radio, detailing the interests, traits, and experiences that are needed to succeed as a DJ. College is discussed as being desirable and providing an edge, though not a prerequisite. The main path for progressing in the field, readers are told, is to work one's way up. Lots of great tips are given on how to go about it. There is information on the various sizes of radio-show markets and the numerous formats, as well as how to find, apply for, and get the right job within them. Interviews with eight DJs from diverse backgrounds is another interesting and helpful segment. Lists of youth radio projects and of trade school and scholarship opportunities for broadcasting are appended. Weigant writes in a upbeat style while conveying the pros and cons of work in radio. Careers in management, sales, technical areas, talk shows, and others are included. Elmo I. Ellis's Opportunities in Broadcasting Careers (VGM, 1992) covers much of the same ground but without the DJ focus and in a dry and straightforward style, minus the currency. Debbie Crisfield's Now Hiring: Radio (Crestwood, 1995) contains similar information but in a format geared toward younger readers and, again, without a particular DJ focus. Weigant's title is the best of the three for information on this line of work.
Diane P. Tuccillo, Mesa Public Library, AZ
Copyright 1997 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
