Description
Some critics rank biographers just above serial murderers. The author of this book, a self-described member of the Samuel Johnson school, doesn't share this view. An account of a life, he believes, should adhere to the truth as the biographer sees it, not to the sentiments of others.
This memoir of a professional biographer's life tells the inside story of how he became interested in his subjects and reveals the mechanics of the trade: how to assemble proposals for publishers, conduct interviews and archival research, and joust with editors, subjects and their literary estates. Other biographers have described their process but remained discrete, not wishing to offend their sources and supporters. This author has forgone such caution.
About the Author
Carl Rollyson is a professor of journalism at Baruch College, City University of New York. He lives in Cape May Court House, New Jersey.
Reviews
"Rollyson's breezy account of the art and craft of biography is rich in gossip, and readers will enjoy juicy details...this useful guide exemplifies how one biographer approaches his work...recommended"-Choice.
Book Information
ISBN 9781476663258
Author Carl Rollyson
Format Paperback
Page Count 256
Imprint McFarland & Co Inc
Publisher McFarland & Co Inc
Weight(grams) 358g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 13mm
