DRAFT NO. 4 On the Writing Process

Celebrated author John McPhee narrates this long-awaited audiobook of essays on writing nonfiction with his characteristic precise language and keen observations reflected in his delivery. He can sound by turns like a grandfather doling out advice or a scold impugning fashion and fancy in the world of nonfiction. Calling on his experiences over more than half a century of crafting pieces for TIME and THE NEW YORKER, as well as writing 29 books, he shares his memories of editors, celebrities, and the many people and places he has profiled. At 86, his suggestions are wise, worthwhile, and helpful, among them: "Structure should be invisible; selection is at the heart of nonfiction; spend time on leads and titles." McPhee delivers a fine performance of this master class in nonfiction writing. A.D.M. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2017]