The article explores the tangled nature of the blurb, a ‘puff’ or ‘commendation’ which is often used as a marketing tool. The author recounts experiences of being asked to blurb books and the challenges of saying no when the book isn’t up to scratch, as well as the awkwardness of asking and receiving blurbs. The article ultimately suggests that reconsidering how we view the blurb as an opportunity to offer an author reassurance and affirmation of their work, rather than a marketing tool, might help us to have more genuine, meaningful conversations about them. Read full article here
Research
Improving media literacy could boost trust towards the news, IMPRESS report suggests
The UK media is regulated by the likes of IPSO and Ofcom. The report by press regulator IMPRESS highlights the link between low levels of media literacy and trust in the news. The study found that three quarters of those who did not know if journalists were regulated did not trust the news. It suggests that improving media literacy is one way to stem the erosion of trust, and shows that audiences have an appetite for information on news processes. Stakeholders need to collaborate in order to rebuild trust in the news, and independent media is well placed to do this. Read full article here
Merv
February 1, 2023
