Royko: A Life in Print

by F. Richard Ciccone

Book Overview

With the incisive pen of a newspaperman and the compassionate soul of a poet, Mike Royko was a Chicago institution who became, in Jimmy Breslin's words, "the best journalist of his time." Royko was by... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1891620517
• Release Date: June 2001
• Publisher: PublicAffairs
• Length: 480 Pages
• Weight: 1.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.5" x 1.8" x 6.5"

Customer Reviews

Journalism Loses A Great S.O.B.

No question, Mike Royko was one of the twentieth century's great columnists. Ironically, his obvious insecurities and constant need to be the center of attention, even to the detriment of his family and friends, are part of what made him such a fantastic, influential writer. This emotionally unpredictable and puerile, chain-smoking alcoholic lived and breathed for his column. Mr. Ciccone has written a frequently funny, crisp biography of an old-school journalist and how the changing nature of news content made him a target of the brainless politically-correct ethos. Sadly, no one who saw me reading this book knew who Mike Royko was. (Talk about the fleeting nature of fame!) Do yourself a favor. Read this biography then pick up some of his old columns and behold a true artist.

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Warts and All view of Royko

This is a very long but well researched and well rounded biography of Royko. It shows his good and bad sides in an evenhanded fashion. I've been a longtime Royko admirer and reader. He is the inspiration for the column that I write for the Richmond Daily Register. Having said that, I think this is one of best biographies ever written about Royko. A complete and through study.Don McNaywww.donmcnay.com

An excellent read

Although it's long, I flew through this book while on a trip to the caribbean. I've always been a fan of Mike Royko and simply had to buy it. Don't be turned off by the size, it is a quick read, without skimping on detail. Mike Royko's career ran for decades so there was a lot to cover. Although it touches on his early life, this book deals primarily with his writing career. Lots of coverage is given to his dislike of the Late Mayor Daley, love of softball, as well as a few embarrassing drunken escapades. All in all, it gives you a complete picture of Mr. Royko, warts and all. I recommend this book.

Great Read By Someone Who Knew Royko

Here's the first look at the life of Mike Royko by someone who actually knew the man. The book captures all of Royko's troubles in a very candid manner, yet got the cooperation of his family which was esstential to telling a full version on the guy. The result is the reader get a great sampling of Royko's best and insights into what drove this very troubled, but very talented man. The perfect gift for journalism students and journalists everywhere.