Mastering Feature Writing: A Review of The Wall Street Journal Guide

Feature writing is a unique journalistic craft that blends storytelling with factual reporting, capturing readers’ attention through engaging narratives. For both budding writers and seasoned journalists, mastering this art can be the difference between a forgettable article and one that resonates deeply with its audience. The Art and Craft of Feature Writing: Based on The Wall Street Journal Guide by William E. Blundell offers a well-crafted roadmap into this intricate world. Rooted in the expertise honed at one of America’s most respected newspapers, this guide stands out as a comprehensive resource for developing compelling feature articles.

Key Features of The Art and Craft of Feature Writing

William E. Blundell distilled years of experience from The Wall Street Journal’s renowned Feature-Writing Seminars into this accessible, step-by-step manual. The book emphasizes practical techniques that help writers at various skill levels enhance their storytelling capabilities:

• Generating Fresh Ideas: The guide explores effective ways to discover and develop story concepts, ensuring writers can uncover engaging angles and avoid stale topics.
• Understanding Reader Preferences: Insight into what readers gravitate towards—and what they tend to avoid—equips writers with the knowledge to craft content that holds interest.
• Injecting Energy into Stories: Strategies to add vitality and intrigue turn even familiar subjects into captivating pieces, a critical skill for any feature writer.
• Structured Approach From Start to Finish: Blundell shares organized methods to transition from initial ideas through research, drafting, and final polishing, helping writers maintain clarity and focus.
• Quoting and Paraphrasing with Precision: Knowing when and how to use quotations effectively adds authenticity and depth without overwhelming the narrative.
• Mastering Wordcraft and Narrative Flow: Guidance on crafting leads, maintaining smooth transitions, and developing a compelling voice enhances reader engagement throughout the article.
• Self-Editing and Style Insights: Tips on refining work and adherence to stylistic norms support writers in producing polished, professional-quality pieces.
• Examples From Real Features: Inclusion of sample articles provides concrete illustrations of techniques, making the principles more relatable and easier to apply.

Priced affordably at $12.59, this book provides robust instruction without compromising on the quality or depth of content—making it an excellent resource for those serious about feature writing.

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Pros & Cons

Pros

Many readers praise the book for its thorough and practical content. As one customer noted, the thorough guide to researching stands out as especially valuable, providing actionable advice that writers can immediately implement. The writing style itself is another highlight, with reviewers remarking that “great writing is always great writing,” underscoring the timeless nature of the techniques presented.

The inclusion of sample feature articles adds concrete examples that help illustrate complex ideas, which many readers find beneficial for visualizing the application of concepts. The straightforward, step-by-step structure appeals to beginners but also offers fresh insights for experienced writers looking to refine their craft.

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Cons

While the majority of reviews are positive, some users mention that the book’s focus on traditional journalistic techniques means it may not delve deeply into digital media trends or contemporary storytelling formats such as multimedia or interactive content. Those seeking a guide heavily centered on modern digital feature writing might find this limitation notable.

Additionally, a few readers suggest that while the book covers technical skills well, it assumes a certain level of writing experience, which might make it less accessible for absolute novices.

Who Is It For?

The Art and Craft of Feature Writing is ideal for:

• Aspiring journalists and writers who want a solid foundation in writing compelling feature articles.
• Professional reporters and editors seeking to refine their narrative skills or learn new techniques from a Wall Street Journal perspective.
• Communications and PR professionals interested in storytelling that captures and holds audience attention.
• Students in journalism or writing programs who need a structured, practical guide to feature writing.
• Writers who appreciate a disciplined, stepwise approach to crafting well-organized and engaging pieces.

While primarily suited for the print and traditional journalism sphere, the principles Blundell teaches also have broad relevance for content creators aiming to build stronger, more captivating stories.

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Final Thoughts

The Art and Craft of Feature Writing: Based on The Wall Street Journal Guide is a trusted companion for anyone eager to elevate their storytelling within factual writing. Its blend of detailed instruction, practical examples, and lessons drawn directly from one of the most respected newspapers makes it a valuable resource for writers striving to engage readers meaningfully.

Though it may not specifically address every nuance of the latest digital storytelling trends, its core lessons on idea development, organization, wordcraft, and self-editing remain essential tools in any writer’s kit. At a reasonable price point and supported by positive customer feedback, this book represents a sound investment for those serious about mastering the art of feature writing.

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