Breslin is portrayed as a fearless journalist who went far beyond the typical duties of a reporter. He traveled to Vietnam to report on the war and ventured deep into the toughest neighborhoods of Brooklyn. He even found himself in the middle of a riot -- in this particular incident, his cab was overturned, he was stripped of his clothes, beaten, and forced to walk back to a police station. Breslin’s willingness to put himself in such dangerous situations highlights his dedication to telling "the story."
One of the most compelling aspects of the book is how it shows Breslin as a political figure in his own right. His coverage of major political events was fascinating, particularly his account of Nixon’s impeachment. It highlights how Nixon’s downfall ultimately rested on Tip O’Neill’s considerable power and influence. Breslin’s political engagement wasn’t limited to Washington; he also addressed local matters of law and order, interjecting his personal sensibility to his reporting. Beyond covering politics, Breslin stepped into the arena himself, running for mayor alongside Norman Mailer in a symbolic campaign designed to make a point rather than win.
Esposito also explores Breslin's character, highlighting his sharp eye for detail, his ability to capture the heart of any story, and his gruff, unpolished demeanor. Breslin moved easily between different worlds, from working-class Queens to the wealth of Central Park West, reflecting the diversity of New York itself. He brought the same depth to his crime reporting, offering insight into both the events and the minds of those involved.
Overall, Richard Esposito’s book is an engaging tribute to Jimmy Breslin. Through snippets of his writing and stories from his extraordinary career, the book reveals Breslin as a journalist who didn’t just report on events but became part of the story.
Amazon.com: Jimmy Breslin: The Man Who Told the Truth by Esposito, Richard
twitter: @REspositoNYC
