Book critic Michael Dirda will give up his weekly column after 30 years, but will continue to write for Book World. Dirda explains that he wants to travel more and work on his own books. The election of Donald Trump also contributed to his decision to step back from weekly reviewing.
“Once again, our country was in the hands of someone who regularly mocked learning, science and the arts; rejected empathy and tolerance for others; and valued above all else wealth, power and social media celebrity,” he says. “Call it a meaningless gesture, but I quickly resolved that my last weekly review would run on Sunday, Jan. 19, the day before the inauguration. As it is, I hope that by late spring I’ll have regained some of my mental composure and be again eager to write the occasional review.”
Scholastic
Mandy Earles has been promoted to senior publicist.
Brooke Shearouse has been promoted to director, publicity.
Kieran Viola has joined as executive editor. Viola was previously deputy publisher at Disney Hyperion and National Geographic Kids.
