Sunday, May 12, 2019

Book Review: Truth in our Times







Truth in Our Times
By David E. McCraw


Complimentary Copy from:
Netgalley, All Points Books
(St. Martin)


The book gave me insight into what a lawyer actually does for a newspaper. If you work for one of those newspapers, NYT, Washington Post, etc. It is a good idea to have a lawyer to back you up. What is important that a lawyer is used for is the first amendment( right of free speech). One thing that is challenged by our President, and the DOJ on a daily basis.

The author, David E. McCraw is a good lawyer to have at your side. When you work for the paper. There are many dangerous situations you may find yourself, as a journalist. You are kidnapped by terrorists, the government wants to sue for leaked info. How is that handled? The information act, the government refuses to release the info. Lawyers must take it to court because the government refuses to release the papers. 

The most important info brought in the book. How much our President has challenged the first amendment. How very important free speech, and freedom of the press is. If we don't have newspapers, and journalists to challenge our government. The most important, the local newspapers are gone. The local papers are no longer needed financially. Corruption is easy to take over in the local governments. Since newspapers aren't around for transparency and accountability.

The book is not a fun book to read of course. It is dry for the common reader. If you were aware of the examples of the first amendment under fire. You could relate to what the author was talking about. There were several situations the author used examples. Where I didn't know what he was talking about. If I had, I think I could relate better. If you are a lawyer. I recommend the book anyone who wants to know about the law and the first amendment. 

At times the book is dry. But, that could be because I don't have a real understanding of the law.At times the book was a bit confusing what was going on. But, I got the main objective. The author is the same author that wrote an op-ed to President Trump.  I am an advocate of free speech and freedom of the press. The book just added my core values of freedom of both. We must continue not allowing the president to call the press, enemy of the people. that is a dangerous thing to say in our divisive country. Yes, there is definitely fake news. Which I call it out, and say lies. But when news report you question. Do your own research. President Trump lies all the time. Fox News has become Mr. Trump's mouthpiece. When something doesn't sound right to you, check it out first and don't spread the news that you know is false. Check it first before posting. 


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