Archive for the 'jacket copy' Category

Talking to Colum McCann

paperhaus November 10th, 2009

I’ve been doing a lot of interviews lately for Jacket Copy. The latest, with Colum McCann — conducted all of yesterday — is up now on Jacket Copy. Not only is Colum McCann an accomplished writer — his “Let the Great World Spin” is nominated for a National Book Award, the occasion for the interview — but he’s got lots of interesting things to say; he’s thoughtful about about writing and about the writer’s place in the world. He told me one of his favorite authors is John Berger (which I kind of loved), and also that I really ought to read E.L. Doctorow (since I haven’t).

While it is no fun getting up before dawn to transcribe — which is exactly what I did this AM — I have to admit that I do love getting the chance to talk to amazing writers, and, even if I’m sleep deprived, I’m really lucky. Now, off for more coffee.

Dear Tom: up yours. How’s that for personality?

paperhaus March 10th, 2009

At the online journalism review, Tom Grubitsch writes of Jacket Copy:

But the blog, with its multiple authors, lacks personality.

His other complaints I’ll leave alone, because I’m sure there are those far better than me to discuss how the paper approaches Books online and the high standards set by previous book review editors.

Instead, let me address this personality thing.

First, I haven’t counted lately, but I’m still posting 75% or more of the blog. And I have plenty of personality, Mr. Grubitsch. Right now I would describe it as personality that is, on the whole, grumpy (although sleepy and some other dwarves are in there, too).

Asserting that a blog with multiple authors can’t have personality is just plain wrong. Gawker? Wonkette? LAist, Gothamist, blogging.la? Boing Boing? Many bloggers. Much personality.

I agree with Grubitsch that Jacket Copy and the rest of Books at the LA Times would benefit from more resources. Heck, I would benefit.

But until then I’m happy to be scrappy, literary, contrary and occasionally giddy. The kind of personality you’ll find on Jacket Copy.

Neal Stephenson at Jacket Copy

paperhaus September 10th, 2008

At Jacket Copy at the LA Times, Scott Timberg talks to Neal Stephenson today. He interviewed the author for an upcoming feature and these are outtakes from their Q&A sessions.