Abstract
In the first chapter of this multiauthored guide, New York–based freelancer Alison Fromme writes, “When done right, science writing can inform, inspire, and even change the course of history. When done wrong . . . well, let’s not go there.” In a casual, informal tone, in a book chock-full of information from the basics of story development to the intricacies of peer review and the journal system, 31 established, successful freelance science writers share how to survive in their world. Each contributor offers examples of how a published or aired piece progresses, from finding a sellable idea to finding the right editor, pitching the story, understanding contracts, and sometimes even travelling to remote places. Then there is the actual story to write and to get accepted, the need to make certain ethical bases are covered, and the desire to establish a working relationship with an editor for when the next idea sparks.
Science writing is “a quirky, nerdy, fascinating job,” according to one contributor. The path to success is covered in three parts: The Skilled Science Writer, The Sane Science Writer, and The Solvent Science Writer. The book differs from the typical how-to or academic text by providing “talk/lessons” from current pros. Each chapter contains a summary list of tips and a repeated reminder that science writing is not a path to riches. A graduate degree in journalism or science can be advantageous. Not all science writers are journalists but journalistic methods are encouraged. The book’s authors agree that “We’re all freelancers these days.” Whether these authors are blogging, writing for local weeklies, or selling to newspapers or magazines or broadcast outlets, changes in the world of communication have affected how the public learns about science. Fewer and fewer major news outlets have a full-time science or environment reporter on staff. More depends now on successful freelancing by science writers, some once employed in the same media outlets there are now pitching to.
A group of over two dozen of these writers formed an online resource called SciLance following a meeting in 2005 of the National Association of Science Writers. Much like the Society of Environmental Journalists’ online SEJTalk for members, the SciLance group shares information and supports each other’s efforts. They’re urging others, newcomers and pros alike, to form their own working and information-sharing groups. Colleagues can help steer each other through writing challenges. Writing about science can bring on “the fear,” probably more so than in other specialties. Finding the best, most credible sources, understanding how to cover risk and uncertainty, and making your way through the buzz words, acronyms, and science jargon is challenging. It helps to have a friend.
Although the book was released in spring 2013, some of the current problems facing science and environment writers and journalists were missed. Change is rapid in today’s media world and in government policies affecting journalists. Canadian scientists face nondisclosure censure. In the United States, reporters have accused the White House of blocking access to key agencies and confounding FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) requests with security claims. Managing a reputation as a credible science writer while trying to make a living can cause conflicts from those faced with invitations from the well-paying public relations arms of industry or from advocacy organizations. Finagling being ethical while still paying the bills can be a battle.
Freelance science writing may not be the easiest career choice, but reading this book will spur on those determined to make a living by communicating exciting, important science in an accurate way.