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The Trust: The Private and Powerful Family Behind the New York Times

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Who Would Like This Book:

If you’re intrigued by insider stories, family dynasties, or the turbulent history of American media, this deep-dive into the Sulzberger family and the legacy of The New York Times is a must-read. The book shines with colorful anecdotes, detailed research, and a sweeping narrative that blends business drama, family intrigue, and journalistic milestones. Perfect for fans of media history, business biographies, or anyone who loves to peek behind the scenes of a famous institution.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you’re looking for a fast-paced exposé or soap-opera-level drama, you might find the level of historical detail a bit dense. Some readers wished for more critical analysis of recent scandals or business decisions. Others felt it stopped short of dissecting controversial issues or didn’t sufficiently critique the family’s power structure and the paper’s editorial choices. If you prefer your histories short and punchy, this doorstopper’s depth may overwhelm.

A meticulously researched, engrossing look at the family behind The New York Times - ideal for fans of media, history, and power dynamics. It’s hefty, but worth the journey for those who love juicy, well-told nonfiction.

About:

The book delves into the history and legacy of the Sulzbergers, the family behind The New York Times, exploring their journey from humble beginnings to becoming stewards of a renowned newspaper. Through detailed narratives and insightful analysis, the authors paint a vivid picture of the Sulzberger family's influence on American journalism and society over the years. The narrative spans generations, touching on pivotal moments such as the publication of the Pentagon Papers and the family's struggles and triumphs in preserving the integrity of The New York Times.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is characterized by a detailed and engaging prose style, effectively combining factual analysis with storytelling elements.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative highlights the Sulzberger family's complex influence on The New York Times and the newspaper's trajectory, including various scandals and governance issues.

Setting:

The setting is mainly in New York City, with a historical range that reflects the evolution of the newspaper industry.

Pacing:

The pacing is deliberate, providing ample space to delve into the intricate details of the family's history and its implications.

Notes:

Punch Sulzberger thought his son Pinch's anti-Vietnam War views were treasonous.
The New York Times has editorial positions held by controversial figures regarding homosexuality.
Daniel Okrent, the Times' ombudsman, criticized the paper's coverage of LGBTQ+ issues as advocacy.
The Sulzberger family maintains tight control over the Times' corporate governance.
The family ownership model resembles a monarchy with a focus on male heirs.
Adolph Ochs acquired operational control of The New York Times in 1896 after convincing influential stockholders.
The Times went public in 1969 and published the Pentagon Papers against government wishes.
The newspaper's coverage of Nazi atrocities during the Holocaust was criticized for its lack of emphasis.
Adolph Ochs was determined to reshape the family's financial reputation after a prior disgrace.
The book provides a detailed look at the history and influence of the Sulzberger family on American media.

From The Publisher:

A National Book Critics Circle Award finalist, The Trust is the "eye-opening" biography (Newsweek) of the Ochses and the Sulzbergers, the families that have owned and run The New York Times for more than a century.

Throughout the tumultuous "American century," a single family controlled America's newspaper of record, setting the agenda not only for the New York Times but for the nation as well. In a narrative that dramatically, evokes world events, internecine struggles, and both the privilege and the burden of wealth and influence, The Trust reveals for the first time the extraordinary story of one of America's most powerful families.

"A lively, lavishly detailed epic...The authors have the journalist's instinct for telling the right story." -Ron Chernow, New York Times Book Review

1999

About the Author:

Susan E. Tift and Alex S. Jones are also the authors of The Patriarch: The Rise and Fall of the Bingham Dynasty. Ms. Tift was an associate editor at Time. Mr. Jones covered the press from 1983 to 1992 for the New York Times, where he won a Pulitzer Prize.

 
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