Are there any budding Lois Lanes or Clark Kents out there?  OK, you might not be able to don the underpants and become a superhero, but this book might just get you a gig as a Freelance Journalist.This book, by Marc Leverton is split into two main sections. The first section looks at the many different types of writing that a freelancer can get involved in. There are chapters on sports writing, travel writing as well as the more hardnosed news, opinion and feature writing. There is a good selection of writing types discussed which will allow most people to find something of interest here. There are also sections on developing your writing skills as well as considering the legal aspect of writing about current people and organisations with particular reference to libel and secrecy.

The second section of the book deals with the business side of the equation. How do you start and develop a freelance business? Who do you go to for advice or to submit articles for publication, and how do you negotiate your fee? Also, Marc does not forget to discuss the mundane but important issue of where do you work. In this day of self-workers and home-businesses, there is always room for talking about how to set an office up, and how to use current social media technologies to market your new business.

As with all ‘How To’ book, the key measure of their credibility is the extent to which extra resources are mentioned, and this book has a wealth of places and organisations that a budding writer can go for advice and for further information. If you are looking to report the news, or to get involved with all facets of writing then you would do worse than to read this book.

OVERALL MARK 4/5

How To Work As A Freelance Journalist – Marc Leverton