Books

Published by the US-based National Association of Science Writers, this book features essays from 45 top science writers writing about what they do and how they do it.

Published in 2013 by the SciLance network in the US, this book contains advice from 35 leading science writers. There is a great website for the book, which includes a blog with some great posts about everything from science essay writing to freelancing. In Australia, the book can also be purchased from Dymocks, Angus & Robertson, and Abbey’s Bookshop.

This guide by Elise Hancock – science writer and former editor of the Johns Hopkins Magazine – and published by Johns Hopkins University Press “provides both novice and seasoned science writers with the practical advice and canny insights they need to take their craft to the next level.”

Published in 2017, this book by science and technology journalist Martin W. Angler “gives wide-ranging guidance on producing journalistic content about different areas of scientific research.” It includes information on choosing story ideas, pitching, researching, interviewing and writing, as well as chapters on investigative reporting, handling scientific data and covering science for a non-specialist audience. There are also practical exercises throughout the book, and it explores the many ways to get into science journalism.

Published by New South Publishing, this annual publication features the best science writing by Australian writers that year. The anthology was launched in 2011, and for those writers interested in submitting, the entry window is open from January 1- March 31 each year.

The New Zealand Science Media Centre has published an ebook desk guide for covering science, which includes information on topics including peer review, types of scientific evidence, how to read a scientific paper, balance in science reporting, and communicating statistics and risk responsibly.