Last week, I noted a mounting debate over nonfiction books in which the author deliberately subjects himself or herself to an ordeal for the sake of a story, like Barbara Ehrenreich in Bait and Switch. AJ Jacobs made a case for the genre as a valid platform for social critique; now, the pseudonymous Agent 007 discusses how these books are viewed behind the scenes.
Agent 007: “In this age of reality television, ‘reality books’ are likely to be popular as well. Personally, I’m not in favor of what I’ve heard referred to as ‘stunt journalism.’ I make exceptions for stellar writing, particularly from journalists, but the Joe Schmoe who decides to embark on something for the sole purpose of getting a book deal is something I am not interested in. An example is the deal, announced in Publishers Marketplace in late May, for Richard Smith’s American Crime Spree, ‘the true account of his journey across America on a mission to break as many absurd laws as possible during summer vacation (without getting arrested).’
“I didn’t see the proposal. Perhaps it was quite good, but apparently, not only had the book not been written before the sale, the author had yet to take the trip. And still, the book is planned for a spring 2006 publication.
“I predict these fabricated-concept books won’t enjoy the backlist sales of books that come about more organically or those penned by top-notch journalists. I’m probably an idealist, but I do believe authenticity coupled with brilliant writing wins out in the end.”
I suppose Smith must have just finished his cross-country rampage of misdemeanors, after months of planning. Anybody know if he managed to get himself arrested?