OFF THE RECORD The Press, the Government, and the War Over Anonymous Sources

OFF THE RECORD seems like a contradictory title for this memoir, especially since many see former Time, Inc. Editor Pearlstine as the person responsible for igniting the powder keg on the debate about anonymous sources in the post-9/11 era of high scrutiny. It was Pearlstine who chose to hand over the confidential notes of reporter Matt Cooper, setting off the Valerie Plame affair in 2004. As narrator Alan Sklar gives a straight reading, Pearlstine makes some interesting points about the relationship between reporters and sources. The measured tone of Sklar's delivery engages the listener without sensationalizing the material. Pearlstine's narrative is sure to be controversial with freedom of the press advocates. J.S.H. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2008]