Roy Peter Clark & Don Fry

Roy Peter Clark is often considered one of the most influential writing teachers in the world of newspaper journalism, according to his biography on Poynter. He is the author of 14 books,  co-authoring Coaching Writers with Don Fry. Clark has worked full-time for Poynter since 1979 but also has experience coaching Pulitzer Prize winning writers like Diana Sugg, and working with the American Society of Newspaper Editors.

Check out some of his work:

1. No death sentence for slurs like the one Kobe Bryant used

2. Tales of a serial prankster: Turning the boss’s office into a fun & inviting place

3. How to use social networks to brand yourself as a writer

Don Fry formerly directed the Poynter Institute’s writing program (1988-1994) but currently serves as their representative at journalism organization meetings and conferences, writing workshops and the Institute for Advancement of Journalism in South Africa. Before entering the world of journalism Fry served as a professor at both the University of Virginia and Stony Brook University.

Check out some of his work:

1. How to Handle Quotes from Inarticulate People

2. Reinvent Yourself after a Buyout

3. White Space for Writers

In their co-authored book, Coaching Writers, Clark and Fry address the communication, or lack thereof, between editors and their reporters. The two suggest that a protocol be put into place for when and how communication should take place between the two, stressing the importance of a writer knowing how their work is being changed and why. They suggest that the protocol be determined according to the severity of the editor’s change to the author’s writing. They feel that simple improvements in communication between editors and reporters can help to relieve unnecessary between the two departments.