The Style Book of The Detroit News

A unique window into the world of early‑20th‑century journalism, this guide gathers the principles that shaped one of America’s most respected papers. Drawing on the standards of government printing offices, university presses, and leading newsrooms, it weaves together a concise handbook for writers, editors, and anyone curious about the craft of newsmaking.

The core of the book is a clear set of editorial commandments—be vigorous but not vicious, interesting without sensationalism, fearless yet fair. It stresses the duty of correction, the need for balanced information, and the belief that readers should form their own opinions from solid facts. Interspersed with a timeline of the paper’s milestones, the text offers practical advice on brevity, accuracy, and the moral responsibilities of a newsroom.

For students of media history or modern reporters seeking timeless guidance, the volume serves both as a historical artifact and a reminder that reliable, thoughtful reporting has always been the backbone of a trustworthy newspaper.